Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken

Name: Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Fresh basil, for garnish

Highlighted under: Easy Dinner Recipes

I absolutely love making Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken because it combines rich flavors with simple preparation. The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with tender chicken, creating a dish that's both comforting and elegant. I often serve it over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up every bit of that delicious sauce. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe never fails to impress and fill bellies with happiness!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-18T16:34:28.298Z

When I first tried making Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken, I was amazed at how quickly the dish came together without sacrificing flavor. I realized that using fresh ingredients really elevates this recipe; the sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach make a big difference in both taste and presentation. The cream melds seamlessly with the garlic and parmesan, creating a sauce that’s simply irresistible.

One tip I discovered is to sear the chicken to golden perfection before adding the sauce. This not only locks in moisture but also enhances the dish's overall depth of flavor. It's become a staple in my home, and I am confident it will be in yours too!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy sauce infused with garlic and herbs
Loaded with fresh spinach and sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor
Perfectly tender chicken that stays juicy and flavorful

      

Perfecting the Chicken

To achieve the perfect sear on the chicken breasts, make sure your skillet is preheated adequately. The olive oil should shimmer, indicating it's hot enough. Searing takes about 6-7 minutes on each side; look for a rich golden brown crust before flipping. If the chicken sticks to the pan, it’s not ready to turn. Using a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F ensures the chicken is cooked through and remains juicy.

Resting the chicken after searing is crucial. After removing it from the skillet, allow it to sit for about 5 minutes. This resting period lets the juices redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a succulent bite. For a fun variation, try marinating the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and Italian herbs for 30 minutes before cooking; this will infuse additional flavor.

Elevating the Sauce

The creamy sauce in this dish is what truly makes it special. When you sauté garlic, aim for just a minute until fragrant; overcooking can make it bitter. Adding the chicken broth next not only deglazes the skillet—lifting all those flavorful brown bits—but also forms the base of your sauce. This step is essential for a rich flavor profile, so don't rush it. Consider using low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the dish.

Incorporating sun-dried tomatoes not only adds a tangy, sweet note but also a beautiful color contrast. If you prefer a lighter option, try replacing the heavy cream with a mixture of almond milk and a couple of tablespoons of cornstarch to thicken, along with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. This swaps out the richness while still preserving the creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful presentation, serve the Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken over a bed of al dente pasta, such as fettuccine or linguine. The pasta will absorb the delicious sauce, creating a cohesive dish that feels indulgent. If you’re looking for a low-carb alternative, consider zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice; both will complement the creamy sauce beautifully without the extra carbs.

I often like to add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a squeeze of fresh lemon just before serving for a touch of brightness. Another variation to consider is adding artichoke hearts or mushrooms for an earthy flavor. Remember, this dish is versatile, so feel free to adjust the herbs and vegetables based on seasonal availability or personal preference!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken:

Ingredients

4 chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Fresh basil, for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken:

Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Sear for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.

Remove the chicken and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits.

Add Cream and Cheese

Stir in the heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a simmer and then add Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese has melted.

Combine Chicken and Spinach

Return the seared chicken to the skillet and add the chopped spinach. Let it simmer for another 5-7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the spinach is wilted.

Serve

Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot over pasta or with bread to enjoy the creamy sauce.

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavor even more, consider marinating the chicken for a couple of hours before cooking with garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice.

Make-Ahead Tips

To simplify your meal prep, you can marinate the chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat. Additionally, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time; just heat it gently on the stove and add the chicken and spinach right before serving to maintain optimal texture.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to prevent the cream from breaking, adding a splash of chicken broth or water for consistency if necessary.

Freezing and Reheating

This dish can be frozen if you plan ahead. Allow the chicken and sauce to cool completely before portioning them into freezer-safe containers. They will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop. Add a bit of cream or chicken broth to rejuvenate the sauce's creamy texture during reheating.

Keep in mind that freezing may slightly alter the texture of the spinach, so if you prefer it fresh, consider adding it only when reheating. This will give you that fresh taste and vibrant color in your dish!

Common Troubleshooting

If your sauce is too thick, try adding a little more chicken broth or cream until you reach your desired consistency. Stir continuously as you add liquid to avoid lumps. Conversely, if your sauce is too thin, simmer it longer to thicken or incorporate a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) to help it along.

In case the chicken isn’t browning as expected, ensure your skillet is hot enough and do not overcrowd it. Cooking in smaller batches allows the chicken to sear properly. A well-seared chicken not only enhances flavor but also elevates the overall presentation of your dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will add more flavor and remain moist during cooking.

→ Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a thick coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free option.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic for a bit of heat.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time and reheat before serving.