Bring the flavors of Tuscany to your table with this rich and creamy chicken dish! Succulent chicken breasts are smothered in a luscious sauce of cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach, making it a family-friendly dinner that’s both elegant and comforting.

Ingredients

2 large chicken breasts, sliced lengthwise
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Flour, for dredging
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
1/4 cup chicken broth or dry white wine
1 heaping teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups fresh baby spinach, loosely packed
1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (see note)
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken
Slice the chicken breasts lengthwise to create thinner cutlets. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Lightly coat the chicken in flour, shaking off any excess.
Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce Base
Deglaze the skillet by adding the chicken broth or white wine along with the Dijon mustard. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes.
Finish the Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the heavy cream, fresh spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes. Let the sauce cook until the spinach wilts slightly, about 1-2 minutes.
Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Let it simmer gently in the sauce for about 5 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens slightly.
Add Fresh Basil and Season
Stir in the chopped basil and taste for seasoning, adding more salt and pepper if necessary. Serve the chicken immediately, spooning the sauce generously over the top.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy yet elegant: A simple recipe that feels fancy enough for a special occasion.
Rich flavors: Creamy sauce with the perfect balance of savory, tangy, and herby notes.
Versatile serving options: Pair it with pasta, rice, or crusty bread for a satisfying meal.

Tips

Chicken prep: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness if needed for consistent cooking.
Sun-dried tomatoes: Use the kind packed in oil for richer flavor; pat them dry before adding to the dish.
Sauce consistency: If the sauce is too thick, thin it with a splash of chicken broth or cream.

Variations and Substitutions

Protein: Swap chicken for shrimp, pork chops, or tofu for variety.
Greens: Substitute spinach with kale or arugula for a different texture and flavor.
Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free alternative.
Herbs: Replace basil with parsley or thyme to change the flavor profile.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe and add extra juiciness.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it gently when ready to serve.

What can I do if my sauce curdles?
Ensure the cream is at room temperature before adding it to the pan and avoid boiling the sauce to prevent curdling.

Serving and Suggestions

Serve this creamy Tuscan chicken over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.
Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Complement the dish with a glass of chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.