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Creamy Tuscan Chicken Recipe

4.8 from 103 reviews

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts cooked to perfection in a rich and flavorful sauce made with garlic, cherry tomatoes, spinach, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. This comforting Italian-inspired dish is quick to prepare and perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken

  • 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
  • 4 (6- to 8-oz.) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tsp. dried oregano

For the Sauce

  • 3 tbsp. unsalted butter
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 3 cups baby spinach
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 oz. Parmesan cheese, finely grated (about 1/4 cup)
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Season the chicken breasts on both sides with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and dried oregano. Cook the chicken for about 8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and transfer to a plate.
  2. Prepare the Sauce Base: Using the same skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes start to burst and release their juices, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add Spinach and Cream: Stir in the baby spinach and cook until it begins to wilt, about 2 to 3 minutes. Then add the heavy cream and finely grated Parmesan cheese. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  4. Simmer the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and continue to simmer the sauce, stirring occasionally, until it has slightly thickened, about 3 minutes. Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over them. Cook for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is heated through and infused with the sauce.
  5. Serve: Divide the chicken breasts among serving plates and spoon the creamy Tuscan sauce over the top. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a bright finish.

Notes

  • Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked without overcooking.
  • For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or whole milk for heavy cream, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
  • Fresh Parmesan cheese grated just before use will yield the best flavor and texture.
  • Pair this dish with pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Keywords: Creamy Tuscan Chicken, chicken breast recipe, Italian chicken, creamy chicken sauce, one skillet chicken