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Creamy Tuscan Chicken Skillet
Aubree

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Skillet

This one-pan Tuscan chicken is rich, creamy, and bursting with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and spinach. It’s a comforting dish that pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner
Calories: 480
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Or Chicken Tenders
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil
  • 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter
  • 3 Cloves Garlic Minced
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream
  • 1/2 cup Chicken Broth
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
  • 1/2 cup Sundried Tomatoes In Oil, Drained & Chopped
  • 2 cup Fresh Baby Spinach
  • Salt & Pepper To Taste
  • Fresh Basil Optional

Method
 

  1. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
  2. Tenderize chicken breasts by placing them in Ziploc bags or plastic wrap. Use a mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken until it is slightly flattened in shape (this allows for more even cooking).
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add chicken and cook 5–6 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through (165°F). Remove and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Add cream, broth, and Parmesan. Stir until smooth.
  5. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. Simmer until spinach wilts.
  6. Return chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over the top. Simmer 2–3 minutes to reheat.
  7. Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve hot with your favorite side.

Notes

Alternatives & Substitutions

Protein Swaps

  • Chicken thighs: Juicier and more forgiving than breasts—great for longer simmering. Be sure to use boneless thighs to reduce cooking time.
  • Shrimp: Cooks quickly and pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
  • Tofu or tempeh: For a vegetarian option, press the tofu well and pan-sear for added texture.
  • White beans or chickpeas: Add heartiness and protein for a plant-based twist.
 

Vegetable Add-ins or Swaps

  • Kale or Swiss chard: Sub for spinach if you want a sturdier green.
  • Mushrooms: Add umami and richness—sauté before adding cream.
  • Zucchini or bell peppers: For a lighter, summery variation.
  • Artichoke hearts: Bring a briny, Mediterranean flair.
 

Creamy Sauce Substitutes

  • Dairy-free: Use full-fat coconut cream or cashew cream for a rich, non-dairy option.
  • Lighter dairy: Try half-and-half or Greek yogurt (stir in off heat to prevent curdling).
  • No cream at all? Use a roux (butter + flour) with broth and a splash of milk for a lighter béchamel-style sauce.
 

Cheese Options

  • Parmesan alternatives: Nutritional yeast (for dairy-free), Pecorino Romano (saltier), or omit entirely for a lighter dish.
  • Dairy-free cheese: Try a plant-based Parmesan-style shred or skip it if using a flavorful broth and herbs.
 

Sun-Dried Tomato Alternatives

  • Cherry tomatoes: Halved and sautéed until blistered.
  • Roasted red peppers: Sweet and smoky.
  • Tomato paste: For a deeper, concentrated flavor—use sparingly.
 

Serving Suggestions

  • Low-carb: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
  • Comfort food: Pair with mashed potatoes, pasta, or crusty bread.
  • Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta or rice.