Tuscan Chicken
A rich and creamy one-pan meal featuring tender chicken breasts smothered in a luxurious sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Parmesan. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels special, ready in about 30 minutes.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 25 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare and Season the Chicken
- b.Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If they are uneven, pound them to a uniform 3/4-inch thickness for even cooking.
- c.In a shallow bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, 1/2 tsp salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
- d.Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, ensuring it's lightly coated on all sides. Shake off any excess.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Sear the Chicken
- b.Heat the olive oil and butter in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Wait until the butter is melted and the pan is shimmering.
- c.Carefully place the floured chicken breasts in the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan (work in batches if needed).
- d.Cook for 5-7 minutes per side without moving them, until a deep golden-brown crust forms and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F or 74°C).
- e.Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Build the Creamy Sauce
- b.Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the chopped shallot and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and translucent.
- c.Add the minced garlic and cook for another 60 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- d.Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits (fond) from the bottom with a wooden spoon. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
- e.Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes. Season with the remaining 1/2 tsp salt and red pepper flakes (if using).
- f.Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to thicken.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Combine and Serve
- b.Add the fresh spinach to the sauce in handfuls, stirring until it wilts completely, which should take about 1-2 minutes.
- c.Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce.
- d.Spoon some of the sauce and vegetables over the chicken. Let everything simmer together for 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the chicken to heat through.
- e.Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For extra flavor, use 1-2 tablespoons of the oil from the sun-dried tomato jar to sauté the shallots.
- 2Ensure your chicken breasts are of uniform thickness for consistent cooking. Pounding them is key!
- 3Don't overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken. A good crust is essential for flavor.
- 4Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
- 5For a lighter sauce, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, but the sauce will be thinner.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Swap
This recipe works wonderfully with boneless, skinless chicken thighs or even seared shrimp. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Add VegetablesAdd Vegetables
Incorporate sautéed mushrooms, quartered artichoke hearts, or roasted red peppers along with the shallots for extra nutrients and flavor.
Make it SpicyMake it Spicy
Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper with the garlic for a spicier kick.
Lighter VersionLighter Version
Replace the heavy cream with an equal amount of half-and-half or evaporated milk for a lower-fat version. The sauce will be less thick but still delicious.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
The chicken breast provides high-quality lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Spinach is a powerhouse of nutrients, including Vitamin K for bone health, Vitamin A for vision, and iron for energy production. Sun-dried tomatoes offer a concentrated source of Vitamin C and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant.
Supports Bone Health
Parmesan cheese is a good source of calcium and phosphorus, two minerals that are crucial for maintaining strong and healthy bones.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of this Tuscan Chicken contains approximately 700-750 calories, primarily from the chicken, heavy cream, and cheese. It's a rich and satisfying meal.