Introduction
Tuscan Chicken, also famously known as “Marry Me Chicken,” is a rich and decadent Italian-American dish that brings the sunny flavors of the Mediterranean straight to your kitchen. Originating from the region of Tuscany—known for its emphasis on simple, high-quality ingredients—this recipe combines perfectly seared chicken with a luxurious, creamy garlic sauce studded with vibrant sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. It’s a weeknight hero that feels incredibly gourmet, offering a comforting warmth that truly makes it special.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless Chicken Breasts (approx. 6 oz / 170g each)
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil (15 ml)
- 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter (30g)
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes, packed in oil, drained and sliced (approx. 75g)
- 1 cup Chicken Broth (240 ml)
- 1 1/2 cups Heavy Cream (360 ml)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan Cheese (60g)
- 2 cups fresh Spinach (approx. 60g)
- 1 tsp Dried Italian Seasoning
- Salt and Black Pepper, to taste
Step-by-step Preparation
- Sear the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Heat the olive oil and butter in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C). Remove the chicken and set aside on a plate, loosely tented with foil.
- Sauté Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sliced sun-dried tomatoes to the same skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, scraping up any browned bits from the chicken. (Tip: Do not burn the garlic; this will make the sauce bitter.)
- Build the Sauce Base: Pour in the chicken broth, bringing it to a light simmer for 2 minutes to deglaze the pan. Stir in the heavy cream and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until it slightly thickens.
- Finish the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth. Once the cheese is incorporated, stir in the fresh spinach. Cook until the spinach wilts completely, typically 1–2 minutes. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings (salt and pepper) as needed.
- Combine and Serve: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Spoon the sauce over the chicken and let it rest for 2–3 minutes to absorb the flavors before serving.
Nutritional Information
This Tuscan Chicken recipe is high in protein, providing essential nutrients for muscle repair and satiety. Per serving (based on 4 servings), the dish contains approximately 620–650 calories, 45g of fat (mostly healthy fats from olive oil and dairy), and over 45g of protein. The inclusion of spinach provides significant Vitamin K, Vitamin A, and iron, while sun-dried tomatoes offer beneficial antioxidants.
Storage
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. When reheating, it is best to use the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if the sauce has become too thick. Avoid high heat in the microwave, as it can sometimes cause the cream sauce to separate or ‘break.’ This dish does not freeze well due to the high dairy content.
Conclusion
Tuscan Chicken is a celebration of rustic Italian flavors, proving that simple ingredients can create an unforgettable meal. Serve this dish over a bed of al dente pasta (like penne or fettuccine), creamy mashed potatoes, or alongside crusty artisan bread perfect for soaking up every last drop of the exquisite sauce. For a variation, consider adding sliced sautéed mushrooms or substituting the Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper, saltier kick.