Food Recipes Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Name: Food Recipes Creamy Tuscan Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1 cup heavy cream; 4 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Cozy Comforts

I absolutely love making Creamy Tuscan Chicken in my kitchen. The moment I taste that luscious sauce, I’m reminded of the cozy dinners and laughter shared with family. This dish embodies everything I adore about cooking—it’s simple yet indulgent, and it beautifully combines the flavors of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach. I'm always amazed at how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings alike. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’s bound to become a new favorite!

Created by

Cassidy Moore

Last updated on 2026-02-27T18:53:34.951Z

On a chilly evening, I decided to whip up Creamy Tuscan Chicken, and it was an instant hit! The rich, creamy sauce envelops the chicken while the flavors from the sun-dried tomatoes and spinach add a wonderful depth. The secret to the sauce's creaminess is the combination of cream cheese and parmesan, which meld perfectly with the stock. I took care to brown the chicken first for that delectable flavor.

What I love most about this dish is its versatility. You can easily pair it with pasta or serve it on top of rice for a complete meal. When I made it last week, I topped it off with fresh basil to brighten the dish, and it took it to another level. Every bite was a delightful experience, and I can’t wait to share this with friends during the upcoming dinner party!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy sauce that envelops tender chicken
Bursting with fresh flavors from garlic and sun-dried tomatoes
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights

Mastering the Creamy Sauce

The creamy sauce in this dish is the star player, bringing all the ingredients together with its rich flavor and silky texture. Using a combination of heavy cream and cream cheese creates a smooth base that clings beautifully to the chicken. As you cook the sauce, keep the heat at a medium-low level after adding the cream to prevent it from curdling. It's crucial to stir continuously to incorporate the ingredients fully and achieve that glossy finish that indicates it's ready to serve.

Incorporating the sun-dried tomatoes not only enhances the sauce's color but also adds a punch of tangy sweetness that complements the garlic beautifully. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. The flavors from the tomatoes and garlic infuse into the cream, making every bite a delightful explosion, and the addition of fresh spinach not only adds color but also boosts the nutritional profile of the dish.

Choosing the Right Chicken

For this recipe, opting for boneless, skinless chicken breasts helps create a lean but tender result. When pan-searing, ensure the oil is sufficiently heated—look for a shimmer on the surface before adding the chicken. This allows for a perfect golden crust to form, sealing in moisture. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work wonderfully here as they tend to remain juicier during cooking. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs will typically take a couple more minutes to reach the desired internal temperature of 165°F.

Another tip for achieving perfectly cooked chicken is to let it rest for a few minutes after sautéing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, which keeps the meat moist when you slice into it later. If you'd like to scale this recipe up for family gatherings, you can easily double the ingredients—just ensure your skillet is large enough to accommodate the extra chicken without crowding, as that can lead to uneven cooking.

Ingredients

For the Creamy Tuscan Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
2 cups fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and add the chicken. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Create the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute. Then, stir in the spinach and let it wilt.

Add Cream and Cheese

Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Add the cream cheese and parmesan. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce becomes smooth. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet, allowing it to soak up the sauce for about 5 minutes. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try marinating the chicken in Italian herbs for a few hours before cooking.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Creamy Tuscan Chicken can be made ahead of time, which is perfect for meal prepping. Cook the chicken and sauce, then allow them to cool before storing them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure the sauce doesn’t separate. A splash of cream or a bit of chicken broth can help bring back the sauce’s original consistency.

If you want to freeze this dish, it's best to do so before adding the creamy sauce. Cook and cool the chicken, then freeze it in a single layer; once frozen, transfer it to a freezer bag. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge and prepare the sauce fresh. This way, you'll maintain the optimal texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This delicious Creamy Tuscan Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a low-carb option, serve it over a bed of sautéed zucchini noodles, which will absorb the sauce and add a nice crunch. If you’re looking for something heartier, creamy mashed potatoes or a simple rice pilaf complements the richness of the dish perfectly, soaking up every drop of that luscious sauce.

For added freshness, you can garnish the completed dish with fresh basil or a sprinkle of extra parmesan before serving. A side salad with a lemon vinaigrette can cut through the creaminess and balance the meal. Feel free to customize your serving style; this dish works just as well in a cozy family dinner setting as it does plated for more formal occasions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even cooking results.

→ Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative, though it may vary the richness of the sauce.

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini would complement this dish beautifully.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.