Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Spinach
Introduction
Creamy Tuscan chicken with spinach is the kind of comforting, flavorful meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. With tender pan-seared chicken breasts smothered in a luscious garlic-parmesan cream sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and baby spinach, this dish is equal parts indulgent and wholesome. At Best Bread Machine, where we celebrate nourishing, time-saving recipes for modern families, this skillet dinner fits right in.
Whether you’re looking for a weeknight favorite or a dish worthy of guests, creamy Tuscan chicken is a one-pan wonder that promises bold flavor and minimal fuss. Serve it with homemade bread, mashed potatoes, or pasta for a complete, heartwarming meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-pan convenience
- 30-minute preparation
- Creamy, cheesy, and packed with vegetables
- Family-friendly and kid-approved
- Versatile pairing options (pasta, rice, crusty bread)
The creamy Tuscan sauce coats every bite, while the spinach and sun-dried tomatoes bring brightness and a touch of rustic charm.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
For the Creamy Tuscan Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced (oil-packed, drained)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter option)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a mild kick
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or cast iron pan
- Tongs or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, sear the chicken for about 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
2. Make the Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add sun-dried tomatoes and stir for another minute.
Pour in chicken broth and stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Add the cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
Stir in Parmesan and whisk until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
3. Add the Spinach
Add baby spinach to the skillet and stir until wilted, about 1–2 minutes.
4. Return Chicken to the Skillet
Nestle the cooked chicken back into the sauce. Spoon sauce over each piece and simmer for 2–3 minutes to reheat.
Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or chopped parsley if desired.
Tips for Success
- Pound chicken: For even cooking, lightly pound thicker chicken breasts
- Use a mix of dairy: Half cream, half broth keeps things lighter
- Let it rest: Give the chicken a few minutes to soak in the sauce
- Balance the salt: Parmesan adds saltiness, so taste before seasoning further
- Don’t boil the sauce: Keep it at a gentle simmer to prevent curdling
Serving Suggestions
Creamy Tuscan chicken pairs beautifully with:
- Fresh homemade bread for dipping
- Pasta (fettuccine, penne, or tagliatelle)
- Mashed potatoes
- Steamed white rice or quinoa
- Roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans
Add a simple green salad or garlic bread for a well-rounded dinner.
Make-Ahead and Storage
- Make-ahead: Cook chicken and sauce separately and combine just before serving
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Reheat: Warm gently over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce
- Freeze: Not ideal due to cream, but possible. Reheat slowly and stir well
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs? Yes. Thighs are juicy and flavorful. Adjust cooking time as needed.
Can I make this dairy-free? Use a plant-based cream and vegan Parmesan. Coconut cream works well for richness.
Is this low carb? Yes, when served with low-carb sides like cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Can I add mushrooms? Absolutely. Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic and tomatoes.
Can I use frozen spinach? Yes. Thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding.
Flavor Variations
- Creamy Tuscan Salmon: Replace chicken with pan-seared salmon fillets
- Add Mushrooms: Include sautéed mushrooms for earthy flavor
- Use Kale: Substitute spinach with chopped kale for a heartier green
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes
- Lemon Twist: Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness

Kid-Friendly Adjustments
- Skip the sun-dried tomatoes if your kids are picky
- Use less garlic or omit the red pepper flakes
- Serve with buttered noodles or cheesy mashed potatoes
Let kids help sprinkle the Parmesan or stir the spinach into the sauce.
A Cozy Skillet Favorite
At Best Bread Machine, we know that dinner is more than just food—it’s a way to reconnect, refuel, and unwind. This creamy Tuscan chicken with spinach hits all the right notes: nourishing, flavorful, and deeply satisfying. It feels fancy but is incredibly doable, even on a weeknight.
Whether you’re cooking for two or feeding a hungry family, this recipe brings warmth to the table and comfort to your day.
Conclusion
Creamy Tuscan chicken with spinach is a simple, elegant dish that delivers gourmet flavor without the stress. With its creamy sauce, bold ingredients, and tender chicken, it’s a standout meal that fits right into everyday life. Pair it with your favorite side, serve it warm, and enjoy the rich, cozy satisfaction of a skillet classic.