This creamy Tuscan garlic chicken is a comforting dish that will have you coming back for more! It features juicy chicken, fresh spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes all swimming in a rich garlic sauce.
You know it’s good when the whole house smells amazing while it cooks! I like to serve this with pasta or rice to soak up that yummy sauce. Trust me, you’ll be licking the plate! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the main protein. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider chicken thighs or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work too—just use about 1/8 teaspoon per clove.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: The oil-packed ones add richness. If you can’t find them, chopped fresh tomatoes or roasted red peppers can be nice substitutes, though the flavor will be different.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter sauce, you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Keep in mind, coconut milk will change the flavor a bit.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parm adds depth. If you’re dairy-free, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, or use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Stays Juicy?
Cooking chicken properly is crucial for a tender result. Here are some tips to prevent it from drying out:
- Make sure to season the chicken well. Salt helps retain moisture.
- Don’t overcook! Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let it rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps retain juices.
By using a meat thermometer, you can ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked every time!
Easy Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably the kind packed in oil)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups baby spinach leaves
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25 minutes total—10 minutes for preparation and about 15 minutes for cooking. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight but special enough for a weekend dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts generously on both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This will enhance the flavor of your chicken!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook them for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until the garlic is fragrant and the onions are translucent. This step builds the base flavor for your sauce.
4. Add the Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Next, stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute, allowing their rich flavor to mix with the garlic and onion.
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, then stir everything together. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer; you want it to bubble softly.
6. Melt in the Cheese:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese and optional Italian seasoning. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce begins to thicken, which should take a couple of minutes.
7. Add the Spinach:
Now, toss in the baby spinach leaves. Cook them just until they are wilted, which should take about 1-2 minutes.
8. Bring it All Together:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, and spoon some of the creamy sauce over the top. Let everything simmer together for another couple of minutes so the flavors really meld.
9. Serve and Garnish:
Finally, garnish your creamy Tuscan garlic chicken with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy this delicious meal over pasta, rice, or with some crusty bread to soak up that fantastic sauce!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as thighs may take a little longer to cook through—aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What If I Don’t Have Sun-Dried Tomatoes?
If you’re out of sun-dried tomatoes, you can substitute them with fresh diced tomatoes or roasted red peppers. Keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly, but it will still be delicious!
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes, you can! Substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or almond milk, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to thin the sauce if it has thickened up.
