Creamy Tuscan Chicken With Spinach

Name: Creamy Tuscan Chicken With Spinach
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Kitchen

I absolutely love making Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Spinach for a cozy dinner. The rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach combined with succulent chicken breast make this dish a true contender for our go-to recipes. Each bite is a delightful blend of creamy sauce and savory ingredients that leave you wanting more. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, which makes it perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions. I’m excited to share this recipe with you, as it's one of our family's favorites!

Created by

Phoebe Turner

Last updated on 2026-02-06T17:41:36.484Z

When I first tried Creamy Tuscan Chicken, I was instantly hooked by the layers of flavor. The creamy sauce is heavenly, yet the sun-dried tomatoes give it a beautiful burst of acidity that balances everything out. I like to use fresh spinach right at the end to keep its vibrant color and nutrients intact.

One of my favorite tips is to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This makes sure the juices redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in chicken that's incredibly tender. Pair it with a side of pasta or crusty bread, and it's a meal worth celebrating!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy sauce packed with bold flavors
Fresh spinach adds a nutritious touch
Quick and satisfying weeknight dinner

Techniques for Perfect Chicken

When cooking the chicken, achieving that golden crust is crucial for flavor. Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels before seasoning them with salt and pepper. This ensures a better sear. Cook them in a hot skillet with olive oil, allowing them to cook undisturbed for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they are no longer pink inside. A good indicator of doneness is an internal temperature of 165°F, but if you don't have a thermometer, you can slice into the thickest part to check for any lingering pinkness.

Once the chicken is perfectly cooked, remember to let it rest for a few minutes after removing it from the skillet. This will help the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making each bite tender and juicy. A brief rest of 5 minutes is all you need before adding it back to the creamy sauce.

Elevating the Creamy Sauce

The sauce is what elevates this dish, and using heavy cream is essential for that rich, velvety texture. Avoid substituting it with low-fat alternatives as they will not yield the same creaminess and could result in a sauce that's too thin. When simmering the cream, pay close attention to ensure it doesn’t boil over; a gentle simmer is key to thickening the sauce while maintaining its glossiness.

Incorporating sun-dried tomatoes not only adds a depth of flavor but also brings a subtle sweetness that balances the dish. If you prefer a tangier profile, consider using marinated sun-dried tomatoes. They have additional herbs and spices that can enhance the overall taste. Just chop them finely and stir them in along with the cream to avoid any clumps.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious dish:

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
2 cups fresh spinach
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Make sure to prep all your ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a perfect creamy chicken dish:

Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper and add them to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for a few minutes. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese, mixing until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.

Add Spinach and Combine

Add fresh spinach into the sauce, letting it wilt down slightly. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, coating it in the creamy mixture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring everything is heated through.

Serve

Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot. Enjoy your creamy Tuscan chicken with a side of pasta or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce!

Enjoy your creamy creation and share it with your loved ones!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in Italian herbs before cooking. This can enhance the overall taste of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy Tuscan chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a classic Italian meal, serve it alongside al dente pasta like fettuccine or penne. They hold the sauce well and allow you to enjoy every last drop. Alternatively, a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a fresh contrast to the richness of the dish.

If you're looking for something heartier, crusty bread is perfect for sopping up the cream sauce. Just toast slices until they are golden brown, providing a satisfying crunch against the creamy chicken. You could even make crostini topped with the sauce for an elegant appetizer.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you want to prepare this dish in advance, you can cook the chicken and sauce separately. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you're ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent it from separating. Add a splash of water or chicken broth if it thickens too much as it warms.

Freezing is also an option, but keep in mind that dairy-based sauces can sometimes change texture. For best results, freeze the chicken without the sauce. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then prepare the sauce fresh when you’re ready to eat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier option. Just ensure they are cooked through.

→ Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative for a dairy-free version.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While the dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it before adding the chicken.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This creamy chicken pairs well with pasta, rice, or crusty bread for dipping into the sauce.