This Easy Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that combines juicy chicken, rich cream, and tasty garlic. It’s loaded with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach for extra flavor and color!
I love how quick it is to make! Just sauté the chicken, whip up the creamy sauce, and you’ve got a lovely meal ready in no time. Perfect for busy nights when you want something special!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are great for tenderness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey cutlets work well too.
Heavy Cream: This gives a rich flavor. If you want a lighter version, use half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: They add a nice tang. You can swap them for diced fresh tomatoes if you don’t have sun-dried ones on hand.
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach is lovely for color and nutrition. Feel free to use kale or Swiss chard for a different twist.
How Do You Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken to perfection keeps it juicy and flavorful. Here’s how:
- Start with even thickness: If the chicken breasts are thick, consider pounding them to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
- Use medium-high heat: This helps achieve a golden crust while maintaining juiciness. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Let it rest: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps the juices locked in.
What’s the Best Way to Achieve a Creamy Sauce?
Getting that perfect creamy sauce is all about the timing and blending of flavors. Follow these steps:
- Start by sautéing garlic and onion: This builds the foundation of flavor.
- Simmer the broth and cream: Letting it simmer helps thicken the sauce. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
- Add cheese last: Incorporate Parmesan when the sauce is thickened, allowing it to melt smoothly into the mixture.
With these tips and insights, your Easy Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken will turn out delicious 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, finely diced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, making a total time of approximately 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner without compromising on flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously on both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes per side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet 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 they become fragrant and the onion is translucent.
4. Add the Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and mix well with the garlic and onion.
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring gently to combine everything. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3-4 minutes, letting it thicken slightly.
6. Stir in the Parmesan:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts and blends seamlessly into the sauce, giving it a rich flavor.
7. Toss in Spinach and Parsley:
Add the fresh spinach and chopped parsley to the sauce, cooking until the spinach wilts—this should take about 2 minutes.
8. Combine and Heat Through:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce and vegetables over the chicken. Let everything heat together for an additional 2 minutes.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with additional fresh parsley and serve hot! This delicious dish pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Enjoy your creamy, garlicky Tuscan chicken!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can add more flavor and are typically more forgiving when it comes to cooking time. Just follow the same cooking instructions, adjusting the time slightly as they may take a little longer than breasts.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
If you want a dairy-free version, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. For the Parmesan, try nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese substitute to mimic the flavor and creaminess.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat the chicken and sauce together in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.
What Are the Best Ways to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess.
