Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Tuscan Chicken is a creamy, flavorful dish made with tender chicken breasts, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, spinach, and a luscious parmesan cream sauce. It’s a one-pan dinner that feels gourmet but comes together quickly, making it perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions alike. Serve it over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken breastsolive oilgarlic clovesItalian seasoningpaprikasalt and pepperheavy creamsun-dried tomatoes (in oil)baby spinachparmesan cheesefresh basil (optional for garnish)

directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish or ovenproof skillet.

Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown (do not cook through).

Remove the chicken and set aside. In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.

Pour in heavy cream and stir in grated parmesan cheese. Let it simmer until the sauce slightly thickens.

Add fresh spinach and stir until wilted.

Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over each piece.

Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce is bubbling.

Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 25-30 minutesTotal time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

Substitute chicken thighs for a juicier alternative.

Use kale instead of spinach for a heartier green.

Add mushrooms for an earthy flavor.

Try coconut cream for a dairy-free version.

Top with mozzarella for a cheesy twist.

storage/reheating

Store Baked Tuscan Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat or microwave in short intervals, adding a splash of cream if needed to refresh the sauce.You can also freeze for up to 2 months, but thaw completely before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, just thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding to the sauce.

What pasta pairs best with this dish?

Fettuccine, penne, or linguine work well to soak up the creamy sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the dish up to the baking step and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s low in carbs and high in fat, perfect for keto when served without pasta.

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce may be slightly thinner.

What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?

Cherry tomatoes sautéed with garlic can be a substitute, though the flavor will be milder.

How do I know the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer—internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Can I add wine to the sauce?

Yes, a splash of white wine adds depth of flavor. Add it before the cream and let it reduce.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, but sear the chicken first and reduce the cream slightly before adding to the crockpot.

Is it spicy?

No, but you can add red pepper flakes for heat.

Conclusion

Baked Tuscan Chicken is a rich and comforting dish that brings bold Italian-inspired flavors to your table with minimal effort. Whether served for a family dinner or a cozy date night, its creamy texture and savory depth are sure to impress. It’s a must-try for anyone who loves easy, elegant meals.