Save to Pinterest Succulent chicken breasts simmered in a rich garlicky cream sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and parmesan an easy elegant meal made in just one pan.
I first served this recipe to my family and it quickly became a favorite weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Sauce: 3 cloves garlic minced, ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil) drained and sliced, 1 cup heavy cream, ½ cup chicken broth, ½ cup grated parmesan cheese, 3 cups baby spinach, 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 1 tablespoon fresh chopped), ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional), Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides.
- Step 2:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook 5–6 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and cover loosely.
- Step 3:
- Lower heat to medium. Add garlic to the same pan and sauté 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 4:
- Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1 minute.
- Step 5:
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Step 6:
- Stir in parmesan cheese, basil, and red pepper flakes. Simmer 2–3 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
- Step 7:
- Add spinach and cook, stirring, until wilted.
- Step 8:
- Return chicken to the pan, spoon sauce over the top, and simmer 2–3 minutes until heated through. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Step 9:
- Serve hot, garnished with extra parmesan or fresh basil if desired.
Save to Pinterest My family always gathers around the table eagerly for this rich comforting dish.
Notes
Swap spinach for kale or Swiss chard if preferred.
Required Tools
Large skillet, Tongs, Knife and cutting board, Measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream parmesan cheese). Contains chicken broth (check for gluten if using store-bought). Double-check sun-dried tomatoes and parmesan for hidden allergens if sensitive.
Save to Pinterest This simple yet flavorful recipe makes weeknight dinners both easy and special.
Recipe FAQs
- → What is the best way to cook the chicken for this dish?
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then sear them in olive oil over medium-high heat until golden and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes per side.
- → Can I substitute the spinach in the sauce?
Yes, kale or Swiss chard are excellent alternatives that will offer a similar texture and flavor profile in the sauce.
- → How do I make the sauce creamy without it splitting?
Simmer the heavy cream gently over medium heat and avoid boiling. Stir frequently and add the parmesan gradually to help thicken the sauce without curdling.
- → Is it possible to lighten this dish?
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream to reduce richness while maintaining creamy texture.
- → What sides pair well with the creamy Tuscan chicken?
This dish complements crusty bread, pasta, or cauliflower rice perfectly, balancing the rich sauce and tender chicken.