Save to Pinterest A rich and flavorful Italian-inspired chicken dish, featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in a creamy garlic sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
This dish has become a family favorite for quick dinners and special occasions alike.
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, 1 cup heavy cream, ½ cup chicken broth, ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil) drained and sliced, 2 cups baby spinach leaves, 1 teaspoon dried basil, ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Season chicken:
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides.
- Sear chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and sear for 56 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Sauté garlic:
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make sauce:
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add ingredients:
- Add sun-dried tomatoes, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 23 minutes.
- Cook spinach:
- Add baby spinach and cook until wilted, about 12 minutes.
- Combine:
- Return chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Spoon sauce over the chicken and simmer for 23 minutes to heat through.
- Serve:
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Save to Pinterest My family enjoys gathering around the table for this hearty and creamy chicken dish, making every meal special.
Serving Suggestions
Serve over pasta, zucchini noodles, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Variations
Try substituting half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter version or add mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
Wine Pairings
Pairs well with a crisp Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay.
Save to Pinterest This creamy Tuscan garlic chicken is a reliable go-to for delicious meals any night of the week.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do I ensure the chicken stays tender?
Season the chicken breasts well and sear them over medium-high heat until golden brown. Avoid overcooking by simmering briefly in the sauce to retain juiciness.
- → Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
Fresh tomatoes can be used but will provide less concentrated flavor and richness. Sun-dried tomatoes offer an intense, savory taste that complements the creamy sauce.
- → What can I substitute for heavy cream?
Half-and-half can be used for a lighter sauce, though it may be less rich and thick. For dairy-free options, coconut cream is an alternative but will alter the flavor profile.
- → Is it possible to add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, mushrooms or bell peppers can be sautéed with the garlic for extra texture and flavor, along with the spinach for added greens.
- → How should leftovers be stored and reheated?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to prevent the cream sauce from separating.