There’s something irresistibly comforting about a creamy, herb-infused dish that brings a taste of Italy right to your dinner table. Creamy Tuscan Chicken Skillet is one of those meals that transforms a typical weeknight into an occasion. I’ve made this dish countless times, and each time it dazzles my family with its rich flavors and gorgeous colors, not to mention the ease with which it comes together. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or need a quick meal for your family, this recipe fits the bill perfectly.
Why you’ll love this dish
This creamy Tuscan chicken is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving seconds. It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for those busy weeknights or a lovely family dinner. Plus, it’s a total crowd-pleaser—kids and adults alike will be asking for more!
“This dish was a hit at our family gathering! The sauce was rich and flavorful, and the chicken was so tender. I can’t wait to make it again!” – Sarah P.
Step-by-step overview
Making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Skillet is a breeze and involves just a few straightforward steps. You start by seasoning and searing the chicken until it’s beautifully browned. Once the chicken is cooked through, you’ll sauté garlic, then add broth, cream, and Parmesan to create a luscious sauce. After stirring in sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, return the chicken to the skillet for a brief simmer. Voilà! Dinner is served!
Gather these items
To whip up this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 large chicken breasts, sliced into cutlets
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup sliced sun-dried tomatoes
- 1 cup baby spinach
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your preferences. For instance, you can use a lighter cream or even half-and-half if you’d like to dial down the richness a tad.
Step-by-step instructions
- Season the chicken cutlets with salt and pepper.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sear the chicken until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, stirring well. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add in the sun-dried tomatoes, baby spinach, and Italian seasoning. Mix until the spinach wilts.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, allowing it to warm in the sauce for a few additional minutes.
- Serve with your favorite pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
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Best ways to enjoy it
Serve your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Skillet over al dente pasta to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of garlic bread complements the meal perfectly, and for a fresh touch, a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette adds a wonderful balance to the richness of the dish.
Storage and reheating tips
If you have leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to revive the creamy sauce. You can also freeze the dish for up to three months—just remember to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before reheating.
Helpful cooking tips
For the best results, make sure not to overcrowd the pan while searing the chicken; it ensures that they turn out perfectly golden. Also, consider using freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor, and always taste for seasoning before serving to adjust according to your palate.
Creative twists
Don’t hesitate to experiment with this recipe! You might try adding artichoke hearts for a Mediterranean twist or incorporating different vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. For a spicy kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes will elevate the flavor profile. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a lighter option, use skinless chicken thighs or substitute the cream with a light coconut milk for a different taste.
Common questions
What is the prep time for this recipe?
The prep time for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Skillet is about 10 minutes, while cooking takes approximately 20 minutes, giving you a hearty meal within half an hour.
Can I use different types of meat?
While this recipe features chicken, you can easily substitute it with shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly.
How can I make it dairy-free?
To make this dish dairy-free, replace the heavy cream with coconut cream and skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Skillet is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. It’s simple, scrumptious, and truly a delight to savor!
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Creamy Tuscan Chicken Skillet
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A creamy, herb-infused dish featuring tender chicken, vibrant sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach, perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts, sliced into cutlets
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup sliced sun-dried tomatoes
- 1 cup baby spinach
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Season the chicken cutlets with salt and pepper.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sear the chicken until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, stirring well. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add in the sun-dried tomatoes, baby spinach, and Italian seasoning. Mix until the spinach wilts.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, allowing it to warm in the sauce for a few additional minutes.
- Serve with your favorite pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
Notes
For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with a lighter cream or half-and-half. Experiment by adding different vegetables or proteins.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Tuscan Chicken, creamy chicken, easy dinner, Italian recipe