| |

Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe

If you’re craving something that feels like a warm hug from the inside, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe. It’s got that perfect combo of tender chicken breasts swimming in a dreamy, garlicky sauce with spinach and tangy sun-dried tomatoes. I absolutely love this recipe because it’s elegant enough to impress guests but simple enough for a weeknight dinner fix. Keep reading to get the whole scoop—I promise this one’s a game changer!

❤️

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Rich, Creamy Flavor: The sauce is luscious and silky, making every bite feel indulgent without being complicated.
  • Quick & Easy: You’ll have a fancy-tasting meal on the table in about 35 minutes—perfect for busy nights.
  • Versatile & Crowd-Pleasing: My family goes crazy for this, and it works great for dinner parties or cozy nights with just a few tweaks.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is all about fresh, flavorful ingredients that come together beautifully. Sun-dried tomatoes add a punch of tanginess, the parmesan brings a savory depth, and baby spinach adds just the right touch of earthiness. When you shop, look for good-quality sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for the best flavor.

Flat lay of four raw boneless skinless chicken breasts, a small heap of mixed dried Italian herbs (oregano, thyme, basil, rosemary), coarse kosher salt crystals, a small pile of freshly ground black pepper, a few garlic cloves with papery skins removed, finely chopped yellow onion in a small mound, thinly sliced sun-dried tomatoes, a handful of fresh baby spinach leaves, a small white ceramic bowl filled with thick heavy cream, a small white ceramic bowl with freshly grated parmesan cheese, and a small white ceramic bowl holding extra virgin olive oil, all arranged symmetrically on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997 - Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Tuscan Chicken recipe, easy creamy chicken dinner, Sun-Dried Tomato chicken, Gourmet chicken skillet
  • Boneless skinless chicken breasts: I prefer 6-ounce breasts for even cooking; pounding them slightly thinner helps if yours are uneven.
  • Italian seasoning: A blend of oregano, thyme, basil, and rosemary – homemade or store-bought, it packs that classic Tuscan vibe.
  • Kosher salt: Use this for seasoning to ensure balanced flavor without overpowering.
  • Freshly ground black pepper: Adds just the right hint of spice.
  • Extra virgin olive oil: This is your cooking fat – I love the fruity notes it adds.
  • Garlic cloves: Minced fresh garlic is non-negotiable here for that garlicky warmth.
  • Yellow onion: Finely chopped, it softens down to add subtle sweetness.
  • Sun-dried tomatoes: Thinly sliced, preferably oil-packed for rich flavor.
  • Baby spinach: Fresh is best for that slight wilt and bright color.
  • Heavy cream: This is where the magic happens! For dairy-free options, coconut cream works well too.
  • Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated parmesan melts into the cream for that quintessential Italian touch.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

One of the things I love most about this Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe is how easy it is to tweak. I often swap out ingredients depending on what I have on hand or dietary needs. Feel free to experiment to find your favorite spin!

  • Dairy-Free: I discovered that swapping heavy cream for full-fat coconut cream and skipping parmesan still gives a rich, satisfying sauce.
  • Spicy Kick: Throw in a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic for a little heat—I like it when it wakes up the flavors.
  • Vegetable Boost: I sometimes add sliced mushrooms or roasted bell peppers for extra texture and flavor.
  • Herb Variation: Fresh basil or thyme sprinkled on top just before serving amps up the freshness beautifully.

How to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Season Your Chicken Like a Pro

Start by patting your chicken breasts dry; this helps you get that beautiful golden sear. Season both sides generously with Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and freshly ground pepper. Trust me, don’t rush this step—well-seasoned chicken is the backbone of the whole dish.

Step 2: Sear Chicken to Golden Perfection

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil shimmers, add your chicken breasts. You’ll want to sear them for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, until they develop a gorgeous golden crust. Don’t fuss too much; let them do their thing for best color and flavor. Once seared, remove to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Sauce With Aromatics and Veggies

In that same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and toss in the finely chopped onion. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Then, add your thinly sliced sun-dried tomatoes and the minced garlic. Cook everything for another minute—this step really wakes up the flavors and fills your kitchen with an amazing aroma.

Step 4: Add Spinach and Cream for This Lip-Smacking Sauce

Toss in the baby spinach and sauté briefly, just until it starts to wilt—around a minute. Then, pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in that freshly grated parmesan. Stir everything gently and bring to a simmer. You’ll notice the sauce start to thicken and the cheese melts into glossy richness that’s simply irresistible.

Step 5: Simmer the Chicken in the Creamy Goodness

Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Let everything simmer together for about 5 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through and soaking up those incredible flavors. If your sauce gets too thick, you can loosen it with a splash of water or broth. Just keep an eye on it so it stays silky.

👨‍🍳

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe

  • Pat Your Chicken Dry: This simple step ensures a nice sear without steaming, giving you that beautiful golden color and crisp exterior.
  • Use Oil-Packed Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Their vibrant flavor and texture really elevate the sauce compared to the dry variety.
  • Don’t Skip the Parmesan: Freshly grated parmesan melts better and gives the sauce an authentic cheesy richness you can’t get from pre-shredded.
  • Simmer Gently: Keep heat low when simmering the cream sauce to prevent curdling and to let flavors meld slowly.

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe

A white plate with a black rim holds a serving of dark brown lentils on the left side, appearing small and round with a glossy texture. On the right side of the plate, there is a piece of cooked chicken covered in a thick yellow-orange creamy sauce with visible sun-dried tomato strips and small wilted green leafy spinach bits mixed in. The sauce looks smooth and rich, coated fully over the chicken. Beside the plate, there is a silver fork with some sauce on its prongs resting on the right edge, and a silver knife is placed next to the fork, both set on a white marbled surface. The top left corner shows a portion of a white pot filled with more of the yellow-orange sauce with sun-dried tomato pieces and spinach, partly visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Tuscan Chicken recipe, easy creamy chicken dinner, Sun-Dried Tomato chicken, Gourmet chicken skillet

Garnishes

I always finish this dish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil—it adds a lovely pop of color and fresh herbal brightness that cuts through the richness of the sauce. A little cracked black pepper on top never hurts either.

Side Dishes

My go-to sides are simple: creamy mashed potatoes or a bed of fluffy rice to soak up that sauce is divine. For lighter options, roasted asparagus or garlic butter green beans are excellent companions. I’ve even served it over pasta for a carb-lover’s dream.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to plate each chicken breast on a bed of spiralized zucchini noodles, drenching everything in the creamy sauce and dotted with sun-dried tomato slices. It looks restaurant-worthy and tastes just as good as it sounds!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually transfer leftovers to an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce holds up beautifully, and the chicken stays tender. Just be sure to cool it before sealing to keep everything fresh.

Freezing

Believe it or not, this recipe freezes well! I freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags and thaw overnight in the fridge. The creamy sauce might thicken a bit after freezing, but a gentle reheat with a splash of cream or milk revives it perfectly.

Reheating

When reheating, I prefer warming it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce seems too thick, a few tablespoons of broth or cream will bring it back to that silky consistency you loved originally.

FAQs

  1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

    Absolutely! Bone-in or boneless chicken thighs work great and actually add more juiciness and flavor. Just adjust the searing time a bit longer to ensure they cook through, around 5-6 minutes per side.

  2. What can I substitute for heavy cream?

    If you want a lighter or dairy-free option, full-fat coconut milk or coconut cream are excellent substitutes that still give you that creamy texture. For lighter dairy options, half-and-half mixed with a bit of flour can work, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich.

  3. How do I prevent the cream sauce from curdling?

    Keep your heat on low to medium-low when adding and simmering the cream. Avoid rapid boiling. Stir gently and frequently to allow the sauce to thicken smoothly without breaking.

  4. Can I prepare this recipe ahead and reheat for guests?

    Yes! You can prepare the sauce and sear the chicken in advance, then finish simmering just before serving. Reheating gently on the stovetop keeps the sauce luscious and the chicken tender.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it strikes that perfect balance between comforting and classy. Every time I make it, I feel like I’m treating my loved ones to something special without any hectic fuss. Once you try it, you’ll see why my family requests it again and again. So grab those sun-dried tomatoes and get cooking—I promise this recipe will become one of your favorites too!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.6 from 97 reviews
  • Author: Villerius
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Description

This Tuscan-Style Creamy Chicken is a delicious and easy dinner recipe featuring tender seared chicken breasts simmered in a rich, creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, baby spinach, garlic, and parmesan cheese. It combines Italian flavors with a luscious texture perfect for weeknights or special occasions.


Ingredients

Chicken

  • 4 (6-ounce) boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, thyme, basil, and rosemary)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Sauce and Vegetables

  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • ¼ cup finely chopped yellow onion
  • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups baby spinach
  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream
  • ¼ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese


Instructions

  1. Prep the Chicken: Season both sides of each chicken breast evenly with Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper to build the base flavor.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear for 3 to 4 minutes per side until they are golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and place on a plate, setting aside.
  3. Cook the Onions: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the chopped yellow onion. Sauté the onions for 2 to 3 minutes until they soften and become translucent.
  4. Add Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Stir in the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant and combined.
  5. Wilt the Spinach: Add the baby spinach to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until it just starts to wilt.
  6. Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle the freshly grated parmesan cheese over the mixture. Stir well to combine and bring everything to a gentle simmer on medium-low heat.
  7. Simmer with Chicken: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Continue to cook for about 5 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly.

Notes

  • This creamy Tuscan chicken is perfect for a comforting dinner and pairs well with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan cheese.
  • Be sure not to overcook the chicken during searing as it will finish cooking in the sauce and remain tender and juicy.
  • The rich sauce can be adjusted to your preferred thickness by simmering longer for thicker or adding a splash of chicken broth for a thinner consistency.
  • Sun-dried tomatoes add tang and depth, but you can use roasted red peppers if unavailable.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 595 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 896 mg
  • Fat: 49 g
  • Saturated Fat: 24 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 21 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.01 g
  • Carbohydrates: 9 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 179 mg

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star