Tuscan Chicken is a beloved dish that brings the rich and comforting flavors of Italian cuisine right to your kitchen. This dish is known for its creamy, garlicky sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a perfect blend of Italian herbs, all enveloping juicy, seared chicken breasts. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this Tuscan Chicken recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making the perfect Tuscan Chicken, from ingredient selection to step-by-step cooking instructions, variations, serving suggestions, and helpful tips to elevate your dish.
What is Tuscan Chicken?
Tuscan Chicken, sometimes called “Marry Me Chicken,” originates from the flavors of Tuscany, Italy. It is a dish that consists of pan-seared chicken breasts smothered in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, featuring sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. This dish is inspired by the rustic flavors of traditional Italian cooking, using fresh ingredients that balance creaminess, acidity, and bold herbal notes.
The dish is often paired with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the luscious sauce. While traditionally made with heavy cream and Parmesan, there are many variations to suit dietary needs, including dairy-free and keto-friendly versions.
Ingredients for Tuscan Chicken
To achieve the authentic Tuscan Chicken taste, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or chicken thighs)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter)
For the Creamy Tuscan Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably in oil, drained)
- 1 cup fresh spinach (or kale for a twist)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Optional Additions:
- ½ cup mushrooms (for an earthy flavor)
- ½ cup white wine (for depth in sauce)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for added brightness)
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Tuscan Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure a nice sear.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil (or butter) in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C). Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Tuscan Sauce
- In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the pan to deglaze it.
- Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Toss in sun-dried tomatoes, red pepper flakes, dried basil, and oregano. Stir well to combine.
- Lower the heat and allow the sauce to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
- Stir in fresh spinach and let it wilt in the sauce.
Step 3: Combine and Serve
- Return the seared chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over it.
- Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 3-5 minutes so it absorbs the flavors.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
- Serve hot with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
Tips for the Best Tuscan Chicken
- Sear the Chicken Well – A golden crust on the chicken enhances the flavor and helps it hold up in the creamy sauce.
- Use High-Quality Parmesan – Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and adds a richer taste.
- Control the Thickness – If the sauce is too thick, add more chicken broth; if it’s too thin, let it simmer longer.
- Balance Flavors – If the sauce tastes too heavy, add a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of white wine.
- Don’t Overcook the Spinach – It should be just wilted to retain its vibrant green color.
Serving Suggestions for Tuscan Chicken
Tuscan Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some delicious options:
With Pasta:
- Fettuccine
- Penne
- Linguine
With Grains:
- White or brown rice
- Quinoa
- Cauliflower rice (for a low-carb option)
With Vegetables:
- Roasted asparagus
- Steamed broccoli
- Zucchini noodles
With Bread:
- Garlic bread
- Ciabatta
- Focaccia
Tuscan Chicken Variations
1. Dairy-Free Tuscan Chicken
- Swap out heavy cream for coconut cream or cashew cream.
- Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
2. Keto & Low-Carb Tuscan Chicken
- Serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
- Reduce the sun-dried tomatoes slightly to cut carbs.
3. Spicy Tuscan Chicken
- Increase the red pepper flakes or add a chopped chili pepper.
4. Tuscan Chicken with Mushrooms
- Add sautéed mushrooms for a more umami-packed dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Make Tuscan Chicken Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can store Tuscan Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
2. Can I Freeze Tuscan Chicken?
Yes, but the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing. If freezing, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently.
3. Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add more juiciness and flavor to the dish. Cook them in the same way, adjusting the searing time as needed.
4. What Can I Use Instead of Sun-Dried Tomatoes?
If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, you can use cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a similar flavor.
Final Thoughts
Tuscan Chicken is a versatile, creamy, and flavorful dish that’s easy to make at home. With its rich sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and tender chicken, it’s a dish that feels gourmet but requires minimal effort. Whether you serve it over pasta, rice, or alongside vegetables, it’s bound to be a family favorite.
Give this Tuscan Chicken recipe a try and enjoy a taste of Tuscany in your own kitchen! 🍽️
