Easy One-Pan Tuscan Chicken: Restaurant-Style Recipe

If you’re looking for a simple yet luxurious dinner, this creamy Tuscan chicken recipe is a must-try.

Inspired by the rich flavors of Italy, it features tender chicken breasts simmered in a luscious garlic parmesan sauce, with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach adding color and depth. The best part? It’s all made in one pan and ready in about 30 minutes.

This dish delivers bold flavor without a complicated process. Serve it over pasta, rice, or even mashed potatoes for a complete, comforting meal that tastes like it came from your favorite Italian restaurant—only better and homemade.

Recipe Information

• Serves: 4 people
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy
• Cuisine: Italian-Inspired

Why You’ll Love This Tuscan Chicken Recipe

This Tuscan Chicken recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort. The combination of golden-seared chicken, vibrant sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy garlic sauce creates a symphony of flavors that’s both comforting and sophisticated.

Perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests, this dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or cast-iron pan
• Meat thermometer
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Small bowl for seasoning
• Tongs
• Serving plates

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• Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs – Quick, Juicy & Flavor-Packed
• Harissa Orange Chicken Thighs You’ll Crave Every Time
• The Ultimate Classic Lasagna Recipe

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6-8 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

For the Tuscan Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 3 cups fresh baby spinach
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

1. Season the chicken: Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly on both sides of the chicken breasts.
2. Heat the pan: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
3. Sear the chicken: Add seasoned chicken breasts to the hot pan. Cook for 6-7 minutes on the first side without moving them to achieve a golden crust. Flip and cook for another 5-6 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Rest the chicken: Transfer chicken to a plate and tent with foil. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Making the Tuscan Sauce

1. Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add sun-dried tomatoes: Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1-2 minutes.
3. Create the base: Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
4. Add cream and seasonings: Slowly stir in heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Incorporate cheese: Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Wilt the spinach: Add fresh spinach to the sauce and stir until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.

Final Assembly

1. Slice and serve: Slice the rested chicken and arrange over the creamy Tuscan sauce.
2. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh basil and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
3. Serve immediately: Enjoy while hot with your favorite sides.

Pro Tips for Perfect Tuscan Chicken

• Don’t overcrowd: Cook chicken in batches if necessary to avoid steaming
• Use a meat thermometer: Ensure chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature
• Save pasta water: If serving with pasta, reserve some starchy pasta water to thin the sauce if needed
• Quality ingredients: Use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes and fresh Parmesan for best flavor
• Room temperature cream: Let cream come to room temperature to prevent curdling

Serving Suggestions

This versatile Tuscan Chicken pairs wonderfully with:

• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Garlic butter pasta or fettuccine
• Steamed rice or risotto
• Roasted vegetables
• Crusty Italian bread
• Caesar salad

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months (sauce may separate slightly upon thawing).

Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to restore consistency.

Variations

Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Toss the chicken and sauce with cooked penne or fettuccine for a complete meal.

Dairy-Free Version

Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and omit Parmesan cheese.

Protein Swaps

Try this recipe with salmon, shrimp, or pork tenderloin for variety.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Words

This Tuscan Chicken recipe delivers all the comfort and sophistication of Italian cuisine. The creamy, herb-infused sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach creates a restaurant-quality dish that’s perfect for any occasion.