Introduction

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Recipe is a restaurant-quality dinner you can make at home in just 30 minutes. Tender chicken simmers in a rich, garlicky cream sauce packed with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and artichokes for a satisfying low-carb meal. For another comforting one-pot dish, try this Easy One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie Recipe.

Ingredients

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken recipe layers savory, briny, and creamy flavors for a satisfying, restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly simple to prepare.

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (6 oz each)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 oz sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (about ¼ cup)
• 14 oz artichoke hearts, drained and chopped (1 can or about 1 cup)
• 2 tablespoons capers, drained
• 6 oz fresh spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ teaspoon paprika

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	20 minutes
Total Time	35 minutes

Context: This Creamy Tuscan Chicken with spinach, artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes, capers, and creamy garlic sauce is ready in about 35 minutes, which is roughly 20% faster than many similar recipes due to efficient one-pan cooking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This step is crucial for achieving a flavorful, golden-brown sear and ensuring the chicken is well-seasoned throughout.

Step 2 — Sear the Chicken

Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat with a tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chicken and sear for 5-7 minutes per side, or until a deep golden-brown crust forms and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Tip: Do not overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning, which builds the flavor foundation for your creamy garlic sauce.

Step 3 — Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add a bit more oil if needed, then sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic will turn bitter.

Step 4 — Create the Creamy Sauce Base

Pour in the heavy cream or a low-carb alternative like full-fat coconut milk. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits (fond) from the bottom of the pan—this is packed with flavor. Bring the cream to a gentle simmer.

Step 5 — Add Vegetables and Seasonings

Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, drained artichoke hearts, and capers. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Season the sauce with Italian herbs, a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional), and salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6 — Wilt the Spinach and Finish

Add the fresh spinach to the skillet in handfuls, stirring until it wilts into the creamy sauce, which should take about 2 minutes. Return the seared chicken breasts and any accumulated juices back to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them.

Tip: For the best texture, simmer the chicken in the sauce for an additional 3-5 minutes to heat through without overcooking, ensuring it stays juicy.

Step 7 — Rest and Serve

Remove the skillet from the heat. Let the Creamy Tuscan Chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and the chicken to reabsorb juices. Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Nutritional Information

Calories	~480 kcal
Protein	~42 g
Carbohydrates	~12 g
Fat	~28 g
Fiber	~4 g
Sodium	~850 mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size. This Creamy Tuscan Chicken is a nutrient-dense meal, also providing a good source of vitamins A, C, and K from the spinach and sun-dried tomatoes.

Healthier Alternatives

• Protein Swap: Use Chicken Thighs — For a juicier, more flavorful cut, substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They are higher in healthy fats and remain tender during cooking.
• Lower-Carb Option: Zucchini Noodles — Serve your Creamy Tuscan Chicken over zucchini noodles (zoodles) instead of pasta for a significant reduction in carbs while adding extra vegetables.
• Dairy-Free Creaminess: Coconut Milk — Replace heavy cream with full-fat canned coconut milk for a rich, dairy-free sauce that complements the Mediterranean flavors beautifully.
• Gluten-Free Thickener: Almond Flour — If you need to thicken the sauce without flour, a sprinkle of almond flour works well and adds a subtle nutty note.
• Low-Sodium Adjustment: Rinse Capers & Sun-Dried Tomatoes — Thoroughly rinse capers and opt for sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil without added salt to dramatically reduce the sodium content.
• Lighter Cream: Greek Yogurt — For a high-protein, lower-fat sauce, stir in plain Greek yogurt at the very end of cooking instead of using heavy cream.
• Vegan Protein: Chickpeas or White Beans — For a plant-based version, omit the chicken and add a can of drained chickpeas or white beans to make it a hearty, protein-packed vegan stew.
• Extra Greens: Kale or Swiss Chard — Swap or mix spinach with heartier greens like kale or Swiss chard for a different texture and a boost of nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

• For a classic low-carb pairing, serve your Creamy Tuscan Chicken over a bed of cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles to soak up every bit of the luxurious sauce.
• This high-protein dish shines alongside simple roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans for a complete and colorful gluten-free meal.
• Elevate a casual dinner by plating the chicken and sauce over creamy polenta or mashed potatoes for a comforting, though higher-carb, option.
• For an elegant dinner party, serve individual portions in shallow bowls, garnished with fresh parsley and extra sun-dried tomatoes for a vibrant pop of color.
• Transform leftovers into a delicious lunch by shredding the chicken and tossing it with the sauce and some extra spinach for a hearty, protein-packed salad.
• Keep it simple and satisfying by spooning the Creamy Tuscan Chicken directly onto a plate and enjoying it with a crisp, green side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette.

This versatile dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, easily adapting to your preferred carb level while delivering incredible flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Overcrowding the pan when searing the chicken, which steams it instead of creating a golden crust. Fix: Cook in batches to ensure each piece has ample space for proper browning.
• Mistake: Using sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil without draining them, making the sauce overly greasy. Fix: Pat them dry with a paper towel before adding to the pan.
• Mistake: Adding spinach and artichokes too early, causing them to become mushy and lose their vibrant color. Fix: Stir them in at the very end, just until the spinach wilts.
• Mistake: Not deglazing the pan after searing the chicken, leaving flavorful browned bits behind. Fix: Use a splash of broth or white wine to scrape up the fond before building the sauce.
• Mistake: Using heavy cream that is too cold or adding it too quickly, which can cause it to curdle or separate. Fix: Let the cream come to room temperature and stir it in over low heat.
• Mistake: Forgetting to rinse capers, resulting in an overly salty and briny dish. Fix: Always give capers a quick rinse under cold water to mellow their saltiness.
• Mistake: Overcooking the chicken breasts after they are returned to the sauce, leading to dry, tough meat. Fix: Simmer just until the chicken is heated through, as it will continue to cook.
• Mistake: Skipping the fresh garlic and using powder, which lacks the aromatic depth needed for a true creamy garlic sauce. Fix: Always use fresh minced garlic and sauté it gently until fragrant.
• Mistake: Not seasoning in layers, which leaves the final dish tasting bland. Fix: Season the chicken before searing, the sauce base, and then do a final taste adjustment at the end.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Cool your Creamy Tuscan Chicken completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Gently warm in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. You can also reheat in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

Always use a food thermometer to ensure this high-protein, gluten-free dish is reheated to a safe temperature of 165°F before serving again.

Conclusion

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken with spinach and artichokes is a satisfying low-carb, high-protein meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. For more easy dinners, try our Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe or Tuscan Creamy Spinach Ravioli Recipe. Give this recipe a try and let us know what you think in the comments!

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FAQs

Is this Creamy Tuscan Chicken recipe suitable for a keto diet?

Yes, this recipe is low-carb and keto-friendly. The creamy garlic sauce uses ingredients like heavy cream and Parmesan cheese without any thickeners, keeping the net carbs minimal. The spinach, artichokes, and sun-dried tomatoes add flavor without significant carbs.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the Creamy Tuscan Chicken ahead for best results. Gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to refresh the sauce. Avoid overcooking to keep the spinach vibrant and the chicken tender.

What can I serve with this high-protein chicken?

This high-protein, gluten-free Creamy Tuscan Chicken pairs well with cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or a simple side salad. These options complement the rich, creamy garlic sauce while keeping the meal low-carb and balanced.