Creamy Tuscan Chicken Skillet

Name: Creamy Tuscan Chicken Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup spinach, fresh; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Highlighted under: Hearty Home Cooking

When I first tried this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Skillet, I knew I stumbled upon something special. The way the chicken absorbs the rich, garlicky sauce while retaining its moisture amazed me. We decided to whip this up for a weeknight dinner, and it quickly became a family favorite. The blend of sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a creamy sauce elevates a simple chicken dish into something truly gourmet. I can’t wait to share this recipe with you—it’s quick to make, comforting, and bursting with incredible flavors.

Created by

Callie Morgan

Last updated on 2026-02-10T23:01:36.503Z

Making this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Skillet was a delightful culinary adventure for me. I remember being fascinated as I tossed the sun-dried tomatoes into the pan, how their intense flavor merged into the cream, creating a sauce that clings beautifully to the chicken. I suggest searing the chicken on high heat to achieve that golden crust, which adds wonderful texture to the dish.

Another tip that I discovered is to add a splash of white wine to deglaze the pan after browning the chicken. Not only does it lift all those flavorful bits stuck to the bottom, but it also adds a depth of flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly. Enjoy making this dish—it’s sure to impress!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy sauce that envelops each bite of chicken
Bursting with vibrant flavors from sun-dried tomatoes and spinach
Quick one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights

Cooking the Chicken to Perfection

Searing the chicken breasts is a crucial step to lock in moisture and flavor. Ensure your pan is preheated adequately—medium-high heat should allow the olive oil to shimmer without smoking. The chicken should be added carefully to avoid splattering. Look for a golden-brown crust to form, which usually takes about 6-7 minutes. If your chicken is browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to avoid burning while still cooking through to an internal temperature of 165°F.

If you’re using thicker chicken breasts, consider butterflying them or pounding them to an even thickness to ensure even cooking. This not only helps them cook faster but also allows more surface area for the flavor to penetrate. After searing, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing, as this helps the juices redistribute and keep the meat tender.

The Creamy Sauce’s Role

The heavy cream in this recipe is not just about making the dish rich; it also acts as a base that carries and enhances the flavors of the garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach. When bringing the cream to a simmer, keep a close eye to avoid boiling, which can cause it to curdle. Instead, aim for gentle bubbles around the edges, stirring to incorporate all the flavors. The sauce should thicken slightly, coating the back of a spoon without being overly thick.

I love using fresh spinach here because of its vibrant color and nutrition, but you can substitute with kale or even frozen spinach in a pinch. If you go the frozen route, make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess water in your sauce. Sun-dried tomatoes add concentrated sweetness and umami; if you prefer a milder flavor, consider using roasted red peppers instead.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Skillet:

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup spinach, fresh
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Now that you have everything ready, let’s dive into the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Skillet:

Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sear the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and the spinach, allowing the spinach to wilt.

Combine and Serve

Return the seared chicken to the skillet, coating it in the creamy sauce. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Allow to simmer for another 2-3 minutes before serving.

Serve hot with your choice of pasta or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider using smoked paprika or fresh basil as a garnish on top of your dish.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Skillet can be made ahead of time for meal prep. Once cooked, cool the dish to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to help revive the sauce's consistency without separating.

For freezing, this dish can be done, although the cream may not fully retain its texture upon thawing. Place the cooled chicken with the sauce in a freezer-safe container. It will last for about 2-3 months. To reheat, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm on low heat, stirring often.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it over a bed of creamy polenta or alongside garlic mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. If you’re looking to lighten the meal, a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.

For a complete Mediterranean experience, you can also serve it with crusty bread for dipping or alongside roasted vegetables. Adding a splash of fresh lemon juice just before serving brightens the dish, enhancing the complex flavors of the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Don't forget to garnish with additional Parmesan and fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a touch of color and flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work great for this recipe. They will remain juicy and add more flavor!

→ How can I make this dish lower in calories?

You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a couple of days.

→ What can I serve with Creamy Tuscan Chicken?

This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or even a fresh green salad.