Name: Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 tsp pepper; 1/2 tsp crushed red peppers; 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 2 pounds); 1/2 cup yellow onion, diced (about 1 small onion); 3 tsp garlic paste; 1/4 cup butter (4 tbsp or 1/2 stick); 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream (or half and half or milk); 3/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes; 2 cups baby spinach, packed; 4 cups cooked pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 50 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that beautifully balances creamy indulgence with vibrant, fresh flavors, this Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach Recipe will quickly become one of your all-time favorites. With tender chicken breasts kissed by Italian herbs, swimming in a luscious, garlicky cream sauce studded with tangy sun-dried tomatoes and bright spinach, every bite is a comforting celebration of authentic Italian-inspired cooking. It’s easier to prepare than you’d imagine, making it a perfect go-to for busy weeknights or impressing guests without the fuss.

Ingredients You'll Need

A flat lay of raw ingredients set on a white marbled surface, featuring four pieces of raw chicken placed on a white paper towel on the right side, and a small bunch of fresh green spinach leaves above them. To the left, there are several clear glass bowls and small dishes containing different items: sun-dried tomatoes in dark red color in a large bowl at the top left, chopped white onions in a medium bowl below them, minced garlic in a small dish, olive oil in a small clear bowl with a golden-yellow color, black pepper, dried thyme, red chili flakes, salt, and a light yellow liquid, likely broth, in a clear measuring cup with a handle. A white powder, likely flour, and a bowl with white cream or milk are also visible. A small piece of butter rests near the bottom left. The overall scene is bright and clean, with well-organized ingredients ready for cooking, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach Recipe relies on a handful of simple yet essential ingredients, each contributing unique flavors and textures that make this dish so special. From the savory chicken to the creamy sauce enriched with fresh spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, these ingredients come together perfectly to create something unforgettable.

Olive oil: Adds a rich base flavor and helps brown the chicken to a beautiful golden color.

Salt: Essential for seasoning, it enhances all the natural flavors.
Italian seasoning: Brings a fragrant herbaceous note that evokes the heart of Tuscany.
Pepper: Adds a mild heat that balances the creaminess.
Crushed red peppers: Optional but perfect for a subtle kick in the dish.

Boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, tender and juicy when cooked right.
Yellow onion (diced): Provides sweetness and soft texture, deepening the sauce’s flavor.
Garlic paste: For an intense yet smooth garlicky aroma throughout the sauce.

Butter: Adds richness and helps create the luscious creamy base.
All-purpose flour: Works as a thickener to give the sauce its perfect velvety consistency.
Chicken broth: Brings savory depth and moisture.
Heavy cream (or half and half/milk): Makes the sauce decadently creamy and smooth.

Sun-dried tomatoes: Give a tangy, slightly sweet punch that contrasts beautifully with the cream.
Baby spinach: Adds freshness, vibrant green color, and a subtle earthy flavor.
Cooked pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice: Perfect vehicles to soak up all the delicious sauce.

How to Make Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Heat Your Pan

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. This warm oil will give your chicken that signature golden crust that’s packed with flavor, setting a fantastic foundation for the dish.

Step 2: Season Your Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry, which helps achieve that perfect sear. Then generously sprinkle both sides with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and if you’re feeling adventurous, a pinch of crushed red pepper for a subtle heat that livens things up.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken to Perfection

Place the chicken breasts in the hot pan and cook them for 5 to 7 minutes per side until they develop a gorgeous golden-brown color and the internal temperature hits 165°F. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate to keep warm while you prepare the sauce.

Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pan, toss in the diced onion and sauté it for 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes translucent and sweet. Then add the garlic paste, stirring for about a minute until it releases its wonderful fragrance. This aromatic base is what will make your sauce truly sing.

Step 5: Craft the Creamy Sauce

Add the butter and flour to the sautéed onions and garlic, whisking them together to form a smooth roux that bubbles gently for a minute. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then toss in the sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach while scraping the bottom of the pan to lift all those flavorful brown bits. As the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens, return the chicken to the pan to soak up those incredible flavors.

How to Serve Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach Recipe

A white round pan filled with several grilled pieces of golden brown chicken covered in creamy light beige sauce, mixed with fresh green spinach leaves scattered on top. A wooden spatula holds one piece of chicken with sauce and spinach above the pan. The pan is placed on a white marbled surface, surrounded by a white plate, a small bowl of grated cheese, a small bowl of pepper, a container of red chili flakes, and some bread on the side. A woman's hand gently holds the wooden spatula. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a beautiful finishing touch, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil on top. A little grated Parmesan adds an irresistible salty burst and extra indulgence that guests will love.

Side Dishes

This Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach Recipe is incredibly versatile when it comes to sides. Serve it over warm pasta to catch all that creamy sauce, creamy mashed potatoes for comfort, or even fluffy rice to keep things light. Garlic bread on the side is always a crowd-pleaser too!

Creative Ways to Present

For a fresh take, try serving the chicken sliced atop a bed of risotto or roasted vegetables. You can also plate it family-style in the skillet for a rustic, inviting look that encourages everyone to dig in and share.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce together. Place in a freezer-safe container and keep for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently on the stove.

Reheating

Reheat leftover Tuscan chicken slowly over low heat, stirring occasionally, to keep the cream sauce smooth and prevent the chicken from drying out. Adding a splash of broth or cream while reheating helps revive the sauce’s silky texture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe and stay extra juicy. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

Are sun-dried tomatoes necessary?

Sun-dried tomatoes bring a unique tang and depth to the sauce, but if you don’t have any, you can substitute with cherry tomatoes for freshness or even roasted red peppers for sweetness.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you want a lighter version, half and half or whole milk will do just fine, though the sauce won’t be quite as rich. For dairy-free options, coconut milk or cashew cream can be interesting substitutes.

Can I prepare this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the sauce. Make sure your broth and seasonings are also gluten-free.

How spicy is this dish?

The crushed red peppers add a gentle heat that can be adjusted or omitted based on your preference, making this recipe customizable for mild to moderately spicy taste buds.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach Recipe enough if you’re searching for a meal that feels both special and comforting. It’s packed with vibrant flavors, easy to pull together, and always impresses anyone lucky enough to share the table. Give it a try soon—you might just discover a new favorite!

Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need