Creamy Baked Tuscan Chicken

This cozy and comforting creamy Baked Tuscan Chicken is a simple take on a classic dish. A dump and bake chicken breast recipe that can be prepped and served in about 30 minutes. A great dish for a simple weeknight meal or a dinner party—perfect for any occasion!

I first made this Tuscan chicken when I needed something impressive for unexpected dinner guests. The incredible aroma that filled my kitchen had everyone gathering around before I even called them to the table.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: provides lean protein and serves as the foundation for absorbing all the delicious flavors in this dish
• Paprika: adds a subtle smokiness and beautiful color to the chicken
• Italian seasoning: creates that classic Tuscan flavor profile with minimal effort
• Garlic: brings essential aromatic depth that pairs perfectly with the cream sauce
• Crushed red pepper flakes: provide a gentle heat that balances the richness of the sauce
• Sun dried tomatoes: deliver concentrated bursts of sweet acidity and beautiful color contrast
• White mushrooms: absorb the creamy sauce while adding earthy flavor and meaty texture
• Fresh baby spinach: wilts perfectly into the sauce adding color nutrition and a slight earthiness
• Heavy cream: creates the luxurious base for our sauce giving restaurant quality richness
• Chicken broth: adds depth and thins the cream to the perfect consistency
• Cream cheese: provides thickness and tanginess that balances the richness of the sauce
• Cornstarch: helps thicken the sauce to cling perfectly to the chicken and vegetables
• Parmesan cheese: adds savory depth and helps thicken the sauce to the perfect consistency

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the chicken:

Pound chicken breasts to even thickness by placing them in a plastic bag and using a rolling pin to create uniform pieces. This ensures even cooking and tender results every time. Transfer the flattened chicken to a prepared baking dish.

Season the chicken:

Generously apply the blend of paprika Italian seasoning garlic crushed red pepper salt and pepper directly onto the chicken breasts. This creates a flavorful crust that will bloom in the oven and infuse throughout the dish.

Add vegetables:

Arrange the sliced mushrooms and chopped sun dried tomatoes around the chicken in the baking dish. Placing them around rather than on top allows them to roast properly while absorbing the flavorful juices from the chicken.

Create the cream sauce:

Whisk the cornstarch and broth until completely smooth before adding other ingredients. This prevents lumps from forming. Then incorporate heavy cream softened cream cheese minced garlic salt and pepper. The cornstarch will activate during baking to thicken everything perfectly.

Pour and bake:

Distribute the cream mixture evenly over the chicken and vegetables making sure everything is well coated. Bake in your preheated oven until the chicken is nearly at temperature about 17 to 20 minutes. The sauce will bubble around the edges when ready.

Finish with spinach:

Add fresh chopped spinach to the hot dish immediately after removing from the oven. The residual heat will perfectly wilt the spinach while preserving its bright color and nutrients. Let the chicken rest to come to final temperature.

Save This

The sun dried tomatoes are truly the secret star of this recipe. My Italian grandmother always said good sun dried tomatoes bring sunshine to any dish even in winter. The first time I served this to my family they immediately asked if it was her recipe a compliment I treasure every time I make this dish.

Storage Tips

This Tuscan chicken keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. The flavors actually develop and improve overnight making it perfect for meal prep. To reheat gently warm in a covered skillet over medium low heat adding a splash of cream if the sauce has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving if possible as it can make the chicken tough.

Perfect Pairings

This creamy Tuscan chicken shines when served over al dente pasta especially fettuccine or pappardelle which stand up beautifully to the rich sauce. For a lighter option serve with roasted asparagus and a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The acidity helps cut through the richness of the dish. A good crusty bread is essential for soaking up every last bit of the amazing sauce.

Customization Ideas

While this recipe is perfect as written you can easily customize it to your preferences. Try adding artichoke hearts for additional Mediterranean flavor. Bacon makes a wonderful addition providing smokiness and texture. For a seafood variation replace chicken with large shrimp or scallops reducing the cooking time accordingly. For a vegetarian version substitute chicken with portobello mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Common Queries

→ Can I use bone-in chicken for this dish?

Yes, but cooking time will be longer. Use a thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature.

→ What are good side dishes?

This pairs well with pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or rustic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

→ Can I substitute the heavy cream?

Half-and-half or whole milk can be used, but the sauce may be less rich and thick.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Cool leftovers thoroughly and place in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to four days.

→ Can I make this dish ahead?

You can assemble ahead and keep covered in the fridge. Bake just before serving for best texture.

→ Is it possible to use jarred sun-dried tomatoes in oil?

Yes, simply drain well before chopping and adding to the pan.