This Easy Skillet Tuscan Chicken Breast is packed with flavor! Juicy chicken is cooked in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, making every bite super tasty.
This dish is one of my go-to meals when I want something quick yet delicious. Serve it over pasta or rice for a complete dinner—a true crowd-pleaser!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish. You can substitute with chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier meat, as they stay moist during cooking.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is best for its flavor. If you’re out, you can use other cooking oils like canola or avocado oil, though they won’t add as rich a taste.
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes bring a burst of sweetness. If they aren’t available, use regular tomatoes, just chop them into smaller pieces. Canned diced tomatoes are another option, but drain excess liquid for the right consistency.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter creaminess, substitute with half-and-half or coconut cream. You could even try Greek yogurt for a healthier twist, but add it off the heat to prevent curdling.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds depth and richness. If you don’t have it, Pecorino Romano works well, or nutritional yeast can be a great dairy-free alternative.
How Do I Cook the Chicken Perfectly?
Cooking the chicken breasts just right is crucial to make this dish delicious. Follow these steps for juicy, perfectly cooked chicken:
- Start with even thickness: Pound the chicken breasts to ensure they cook evenly. This prevents undercooked centers.
- Use medium-high heat: This ensures a nice sear without drying out the meat. Adjust heat as needed.
- Don’t flip too soon: Wait until the chicken is golden brown on one side before flipping. This helps develop flavor.
- Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have one, cut into the thickest part; juices should run clear.
By following these tips, you’ll have rich and flavorful chicken in no time!
How to Make Easy Skillet Tuscan Chicken Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup baby spinach leaves
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Skillet Tuscan Chicken Breast recipe takes approximately 25 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes on prep and 15 minutes on cooking. Perfect for a weeknight dinner when you’re short on time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken as it cooks, so don’t be shy with the seasoning!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes:
In the same skillet, lower the heat slightly and add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant — be careful not to burn it! Then, stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and chopped sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes soften.
4. Add the Spinach:
Next, stir in the baby spinach leaves. Cook until the spinach is wilted, which should take about 1-2 minutes. This adds a nice color and nutrition to the dish!
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream, then sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and the dried Italian seasoning. Stir everything together until well combined, allowing the sauce to simmer and thicken slightly for about 3-4 minutes.
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the creamy sauce over the top. Let everything simmer together for another 2 minutes to meld those delicious flavors together.
7. Garnish and Serve:
If you’d like, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Serve your Easy Skillet Tuscan Chicken Breast immediately, either on its own or over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread for dipping in that creamy sauce!
Enjoy your delicious, homemade creamy Tuscan chicken! It’s a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
It’s best to use thawed, fresh chicken for even cooking and better texture. If you only have frozen chicken, make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight or using the cold water method before cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
You can use half-and-half for a lighter version, or coconut cream for a dairy-free option. If you want a tangy flavor, Greek yogurt can be mixed in at the end, but be sure to add it off the heat to prevent curdling.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat on the stovetop or in a microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can cook the chicken and make the sauce in advance. Simply store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the chicken and sauce together in a skillet until warmed through.
