I often find myself craving comforting, yet quick, meals that truly satisfy. This Easy Tuscan Chicken Recipe, a creamy skillet with spinach, offers just that, with the rich aroma of garlic and sun-dried tomatoes filling my kitchen. It’s truly a family-friendly dream dish, perfect for busy weeknights when you need a hearty dinner but are short on time. My family adores this creamy Tuscan chicken skillet recipe, making it a regular on our menu.
What You’ll Need (Ingredients & Their Roles)
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this incredibly flavorful Tuscan Chicken Recipe Creamy Skillet With Spinach, along with some helpful notes for success:
- Chicken: 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into cutlets. (Lean protein, holds flavor well for a family-friendly meal).
- Olive Oil: 2 tbsp (30ml). (For browning chicken and sautéing aromatics).
- Aromatics: 1 onion, chopped; 3-4 cloves garlic, minced. (These build the foundational flavor base).
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: 1/2 cup (75g), packed in oil, drained and chopped. (Adds a sweet-tart, intense depth to the sauce).
- Spinach: 5-6 oz (140-170g) fresh spinach. (Nutrient boost, wilts down quickly).
- Cream Base: 1.5 cups (360ml) heavy cream or half-and-half. (For a rich, creamy sauce. If you’re out, unsweetened full-fat coconut milk also creates a lovely texture.)
- Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup (120ml). (Adds liquid, enhances chicken flavor).
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup (50g) grated. (Salty, umami finish. For a dairy-free meal, nutritional yeast offers a similar savory kick.)
- Seasonings: 1 tsp Italian seasoning, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional). (Essential flavors for a hearty dish).
Substitutions & Swaps
- Swap chicken for other proteins like cannellini beans or firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Use evaporated milk or unsweetened almond milk with a tablespoon of cream cheese for a lighter or dairy-free creamy Tuscan chicken sauce.
- No fresh spinach? Frozen chopped spinach (thawed, squeezed dry) works just as well.
Healthier Choices
- Opt for organic, free-range chicken for a healthier approach.
- Reduce cream by using more broth and less heavy cream for a low-calorie Tuscan chicken.
- Boost veggies with bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrients.
Storage Quality
- Fresh spinach should be vibrant green and crisp for the best texture.
- Heavy cream stores well in the refrigerator; raw chicken can be frozen for later use.
Cooking Method, Simplified
Let’s get cooking! This straightforward method ensures your Tuscan Chicken Recipe Creamy Skillet With Spinach comes together beautifully:
- Step 1: Prep Chicken (5 mins). Season chicken cutlets evenly with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Step 2: Brown Chicken (8-10 mins). Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Brown chicken for 3-5 minutes per side until golden brown and sizzling. Remove and set aside. I often multitask here, quickly chopping the onion and sun-dried tomatoes while the chicken browns on busy weeknights.
- Step 3: Sauté Aromatics (3-4 mins). Add chopped onion to the skillet; cook until softened and translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
- Step 4: Build Sauce (5-7 mins). Deglaze with 1/2 cup chicken broth, scraping up any delicious browned bits from the bottom. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes, 1.5 cups heavy cream, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly, which is the start of your rich Tuscan Chicken Recipe Creamy Skillet With Spinach sauce. If your sauce looks too thin, let it simmer an extra minute or two until it coats the back of a spoon.
- Step 5: Add Spinach & Cheese (3-5 mins). Stir in 5-6 oz fresh spinach until it wilts and reduces significantly in volume. Reduce heat to low, then stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth, giving the sauce a rich body.
- Step 6: Finish Dish (2-3 mins). Return browned chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the creamy Tuscan sauce. Simmer gently for a few minutes until the chicken is heated through and bubbling around the edges.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the skillet: Cook chicken in batches for better browning and an even sear.
- High heat for cream: Simmer gently to prevent curdling and keep the sauce smooth.
- Overcooking chicken: It will continue to cook a bit in the sauce, so aim for just cooked through initially.
Perfect Moments to Serve Tuscan Chicken Recipe Creamy Skillet With Spinach
This comforting dish shines in many settings, proving perfect for family dinners or entertaining. It’s truly a versatile meal.
- Anytime Feasts: Ideal for a comforting family dinner, a cozy date night, or an impressive dish for small gatherings.
- Weeknight Lifesaver: Quick prep and cook time make this a go-to for busy evenings, supporting easy dinner ideas.
Occasion-Specific Tweaks
- Festive Table: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve alongside roasted asparagus for an elevated touch.
- Meal Prep: Cook a double batch for easy lunches throughout the week, making healthy eating simple.
- Kids’ Palates: Cut chicken into smaller pieces, serving with pasta or rice to make it extra family-friendly.
Pairing Ideas
- Sides: Steamed rice, pasta (like penne or fettuccine), mashed potatoes, crusty bread to soak up the sauce, or a light green salad.
- Drinks: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Pinot Noir.
Nutrition and Wellness Benefits
This Tuscan Chicken Recipe Creamy Skillet With Spinach combines lean protein from chicken with iron and vitamins from spinach, making it a well-rounded, healthy family meal. It’s a fantastic choice for those focusing on healthy eating.
Protein-Packed Dinner
An excellent source of high-protein for muscle repair and satiety, this dish helps keep you full and energized.
Good for Popular Diets
- Keto-Friendly: Easily adapted for low-carb meals by skipping starchy sides and ensuring low-carb ingredients.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free if served without pasta.
- Dairy-Free Option: Can be made dairy-free with coconut milk and nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor.
Meal Prep Recipes for Weight Loss
Portion this dish out for controlled, satisfying meals during the week, supporting your weight loss or healthy lifestyle goals.
Everyday Practical Benefits
Beyond its delicious taste, this creamy skillet chicken offers several advantages for busy home cooks.
Time Savings
From start to finish, this Tuscan chicken recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, freeing up your evenings for family or relaxation.
Affordability
Uses common, budget-friendly ingredients found in any grocery store, making it an economical choice for family dinners.
Convenience
A one-pan creamy Tuscan chicken skillet means less cleanup, perfect for modern, on-the-go lifestyles.
Versatility
Leftovers taste great and can be reimagined in wraps or over salads, offering delicious variety for meal prep.
Expert Tips and Flavor Upgrades
Elevate your dish with these simple chef-inspired tips and tricks.
Toast Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Briefly toast dried tomatoes (if not oil-packed) for enhanced flavor. I’ve found this really brings out their sweetness and depth.
Herb Power
Add fresh basil or oregano at the end for a burst of fresh flavor, brightens the entire dish.
Spice it Up
A pinch of cayenne pepper or extra red pepper flakes gives it a delicious kick, adjusting to your preference.
Richness Factor
For extra decadence, add a tablespoon of cream cheese to the sauce, making it even smoother and richer.
Dietary Adjustments
- Low Sodium: Use low-sodium broth and adjust salt to taste, ensuring a healthy sodium intake.
- Vegetarian: Swap chicken for cannellini beans or firm tofu for a vegetarian Tuscan skillet.
Common Questions Answered
Is this Tuscan Chicken Recipe Creamy Skillet With Spinach suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, this Tuscan Chicken Recipe Creamy Skillet With Spinach is naturally low-carb if you skip starchy sides. The chicken, spinach, and creamy sauce fit perfectly into a keto or low-carb meal plan, making it a healthy option.
What’s the best way to store leftover Tuscan Chicken Recipe Creamy Skillet With Spinach for meal prep?
Store cooled Tuscan Chicken Recipe Creamy Skillet With Spinach in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It reheats wonderfully in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or gently on the stovetop.
Can I freeze this Tuscan Chicken Recipe Creamy Skillet With Spinach?
While possible, dairy-based sauces can sometimes separate or change texture upon thawing. For best results, I always recommend enjoying this dish fresh or simply refrigerated, ensuring the creamy texture remains intact.
How can I make this Tuscan Chicken Recipe more kid-friendly?
Kids often adore the creamy sauce. You can cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and serve it with their favorite pasta or rice. Adjust red pepper flakes if your little ones are sensitive to spice, keeping it a family-friendly meal.
I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes; what can I use instead?
You can omit them entirely or try adding a few finely diced roasted red peppers for a similar sweet and smoky flavor profile in your creamy Tuscan chicken. This swap works well for flavor and texture.
Where can I find high-quality ingredients for my Tuscan Chicken Recipe Creamy Skillet With Spinach?
Most local grocery stores carry high-quality chicken, fresh spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes. For organic ingredients or premium options, check specialty stores or local farmers’ markets, supporting healthy choices.
Conclusion
This Tuscan Chicken Recipe Creamy Skillet With Spinach offers a simple, delicious, and family-approved meal. Save this recipe on Pinterest, so you always have a quick, satisfying dinner idea!
Tuscan Chicken Recipe Creamy Skillet With Spinach
- Total Time: 34 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Diet: General
Description
This Easy Tuscan Chicken Recipe is a creamy skillet dish with spinach, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes. It’s a quick, comforting, and family-friendly meal, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into cutlets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.5 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil, drained and chopped
- 5–6 oz fresh spinach
- 1.5 cups heavy cream or half-and-half
- 0.5 cup chicken broth
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.25 tsp black pepper
- 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Prep Chicken: Season chicken cutlets evenly with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Brown Chicken: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Brown chicken for 3-5 minutes per side until golden brown and sizzling. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add chopped onion to the skillet; cook until softened and translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
- Build Sauce: Deglaze with 0.5 cup chicken broth, scraping up any delicious browned bits from the bottom. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes, 1.5 cups heavy cream, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Add Spinach and Cheese: Stir in 5-6 oz fresh spinach until it wilts and reduces significantly in volume. Reduce heat to low, then stir in 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Finish Dish: Return browned chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the creamy Tuscan sauce. Simmer gently for a few minutes until the chicken is heated through and bubbling around the edges.
Notes
Cook chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet and ensure better browning. Simmer cream gently to prevent curdling and keep the sauce smooth. Aim for just cooked-through chicken initially, as it will continue to cook in the sauce. For a dairy-free option, use unsweetened full-fat coconut milk. For a vegetarian option, swap chicken for cannellini beans or firm tofu.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 29 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tuscan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken cutlet with sauce (approx 200g)
- Calories: 650 calories
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 50 g
- Saturated Fat: 25 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 45 g
- Cholesterol: 180 mg
Keywords: easy chicken recipe, Tuscan chicken, creamy skillet, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, weeknight dinner, family-friendly, quick meal