Introduction:
Craving a restaurant-quality meal at home? This one-pot creamy Tuscan chicken recipe is rich, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. With tender chicken breasts, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a creamy Parmesan sauce, this dish brings the flavors of Italy straight to your kitchen. Best of all, it’s a one-pot meal, so cleanup is a breeze! Follow this recipe to create the best creamy Tuscan chicken for a delicious, comforting dinner.
Ingredients for One-Pot Creamy Tuscan Chicken
For this mouthwatering creamy chicken recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
These ingredients come together to create a creamy, flavorful sauce that complements the tender chicken perfectly.
Step-by-Step Instructions for One-Pot Creamy Tuscan Chicken
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper, then sear them for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken. Sear in batches if necessary to get that beautiful golden crust.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 3: Add the Spinach
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the baby spinach and let it wilt in the sauce. This adds a fresh, vibrant flavor to the rich and creamy sauce.
Step 4: Return the Chicken to the Pot
Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for about 5-7 minutes until it’s fully cooked and the flavors meld together.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Serve your creamy Tuscan chicken over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes, and garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. This dish is best enjoyed warm with a side of garlic bread or a green salad.
Tips for the Best Creamy Tuscan Chicken
- Use fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture. If you only have frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the sauce.
- Don’t overcook the chicken. The chicken breasts should be tender and juicy, so remove them from the heat as soon as they’re cooked through.
- Serve immediately for the creamiest, most flavorful sauce. The sauce may thicken as it sits, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and add extra richness to this creamy chicken recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they’re fully cooked.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. Add a little extra cream or broth if the sauce thickens too much during reheating.
Q: What sides go well with creamy Tuscan chicken?
A: This Tuscan chicken recipe pairs well with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. For a low-carb option, try serving it with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Creamy Tuscan Chicken Recipe
This one-pot creamy Tuscan chicken is not only incredibly flavorful but also easy to make, thanks to the one-pot method. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach creates a dish that’s both comforting and impressive. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or for entertaining guests, and the leftovers taste just as amazing the next day!