Creamy Tuscan Chicken Skillet

Name: Creamy Tuscan Chicken Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 onion, diced; 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Hearty Home Dishes

I can’t resist a good creamy chicken dish, and this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Skillet is my new favorite. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes in a rich cream sauce creates a flavor explosion that I adore. It's quick to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. I love how the garlic and herbs infuse the dish with warmth, making each bite a cozy experience. Trust me, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen just like it is in mine.

Created by

Sophia Lane

Last updated on 2026-02-15T00:47:36.058Z

When I first tried making this dish, I was surprised at how quickly everything came together. Searing the chicken in a skillet creates a beautiful golden crust that locks in the juices, making each bite incredibly moist. While the chicken cooks, I sauté garlic and onion to build that aromatic base that pairs so well with the sun-dried tomatoes.

The real magic happens when I add the cream and cheese—together they create a luscious sauce that clings to the chicken and vegetables. I always finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil for a burst of fragrance, and it’s the perfect touch!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy sauce with vibrant flavors
Quick and easy meal for busy weeknights
Packed with nutrients from spinach and tomatoes

Perfecting the Chicken

To achieve perfectly cooked chicken breasts in this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Skillet, it's essential to use medium-high heat. This allows for a nice golden crust to form while ensuring the chicken cooks through without drying out. I recommend using an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F. If the chicken is browning too quickly before it's fully cooked, reduce the heat slightly to prevent burning.

After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite remains juicy and tender. If you decide to double the recipe, ensure that you do not overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken, which can lead to uneven cooking. Instead, cook in batches if necessary.

Building Flavor with Aromatics

The aromatics in this dish, namely garlic and onion, play a crucial role in establishing the base flavor. Sautéing them in the residual oil from the chicken helps to infuse the dish with deep, savory notes. It's important to sauté them just until the onion becomes translucent, which typically takes 2-3 minutes. If you notice the garlic beginning to brown, reduce the heat immediately to prevent it from becoming bitter.

You can experiment with the aromatics depending on your preference. For a milder flavor, consider using shallots instead of onion or adding extra herbs, such as thyme or oregano, for additional depth. Each of these choices can enhance the overall complexity of your dish.

Making the Creamy Sauce

The heavy cream and Parmesan cheese combine to create a luscious sauce that clings to the chicken beautifully. When adding the cream, be sure to lower the heat to medium to prevent curdling. Stir continuously as the cheese melts to form a uniform, creamy texture. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can loosen it with a splash of chicken broth or even white wine, which adds a delightful brightness.

Should you wish to make this dish lighter, consider substituting half-and-half for some of the heavy cream, or using a dairy-free cream alternative if you're looking for a non-dairy version. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will vary slightly, but the dish will still be delicious.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your meal wholesome and delicious:

For the Chicken Skillet

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, diced
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
2 cups fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Fresh basil for garnish

Make sure to have everything measured and prepped for a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect creamy skillet chicken:

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 7-8 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach

Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. Cook until the spinach wilts, about 2 minutes.

Create the Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Combine and Serve

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, coating it with the creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

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

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in Italian dressing for an hour before cooking. This will enhance the taste and moisture of the chicken.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Skillet pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. For a complete meal, serve it over a bed of fluffy couscous or creamy polenta, which will soak up the delightful sauce. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.

For those who enjoy a little heat, consider sprinkling red pepper flakes over the finished dish before serving. This addition enhances the flavor profile while providing a lovely pop of color. Alternatively, you can serve it with crusty bread to mop up the creamy sauce, making each bite a delightful experience.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers from this dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep the sauce creamy. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it can cause the chicken to become rubbery and dry.

If you wish to freeze the dish, consider storing the chicken and sauce separately to prevent the cream from separating. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat slowly on the stove for the best texture and flavor.

Making Ahead

For a convenient meal prep option, you can prepare the creamy sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Simply reheat the sauce on the stovetop before adding the cooked chicken to combine everything seamlessly. This method allows you to enjoy a gourmet meal without the last-minute rush on weeknights.

You can also marinate the chicken breasts in olive oil, Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of lemon juice a few hours before cooking. This will enhance the flavors and keep the chicken moist. Marinated chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, making it a great option for a quick and satisfying dinner.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead?

Yes, chicken thighs work great and will add more flavor!

→ Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half, but the sauce will be less rich.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare everything in advance and just heat it up when ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or a simple side salad.