There’s something magical about the aroma of Baked Tuscan Chicken Breasts wafting through your kitchen. With tender, juicy chicken baked to perfection in a creamy, garlicky sauce, this dish brings the flavors of Italy right to your table.

I first discovered this recipe when I was experimenting with ways to incorporate more Mediterranean flavors into weeknight dinners. Little did I know, it would quickly become a staple in my household. It’s the perfect balance of indulgence and ease, and I can't wait for you to try it!

Why You’ll Love This Baked Tuscan Chicken Breasts Recipe

Get ready to fall head over heels for this recipe – it’s bound to become a new family favorite. This dish combines the best of Tuscan flavors into one simple, irresistible meal.

It’s a time-saver. Whether you’re juggling work, family, or just a busy schedule, this recipe comes together in under an hour, with only 15 minutes of hands-on prep time.

It’s rich and flavorful. The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and a creamy Parmesan sauce creates an unforgettable medley of tastes that feel restaurant-quality without the price tag.

Great for meal prep. The leftovers taste just as good, if not better, the next day. It’s perfect for lunches or reheated dinners later in the week.

Customizable and versatile. Whether you’re adding spinach for extra greens or swapping chicken breasts for thighs, this recipe is easy to tailor to your preferences.

Ingredients Notes

The secret to the success of this recipe lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a role in creating a dish that’s both hearty and sophisticated.

Chicken breasts: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts. If they’re particularly thick, consider butterflying them or pounding them to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly.

Sun-dried tomatoes: These little gems pack a punch of tangy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce. Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.

Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a vibrant color and subtle earthiness to the dish. If you only have frozen spinach on hand, thaw and drain it well before adding.

Heavy cream and chicken broth: This duo forms the base of the sauce, creating a luxurious, velvety texture. For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or even whole milk.

Parmesan cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor. Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly and can affect the sauce’s consistency.

Garlic and Italian seasoning: These pantry staples bring depth and authenticity to the dish. Feel free to adjust the amounts to suit your taste.

No special equipment is needed – just a large oven-safe skillet and a whisk to ensure the sauce comes out silky smooth.

How To Make This Baked Tuscan Chicken Breasts Recipe

Making this delicious dish is as easy as 1-2-3. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a crowd-pleasing meal in no time.

1. Preheat and prep the chicken. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning on both sides. Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, add a drizzle of olive oil, and sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

2. Create the sauce. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan. Whisk the mixture well, ensuring the cheese melts completely and the sauce is smooth.

3. Add the extras. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach, letting the spinach wilt slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

4. Bake to perfection. Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Spoon some sauce over the chicken to coat. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

5. Serve and enjoy. Once baked, garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired. Serve over pasta, rice, or with a side of crusty bread to soak up all that creamy goodness.

Storage Options

Leftovers? Lucky you! This dish stores beautifully and can be reheated for a quick and satisfying meal.

Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The creamy sauce might thicken slightly as it cools, but a splash of chicken broth when reheating will restore its original consistency.

Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: To reheat, warm the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, microwave individual portions in 30-second increments until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are some fun ways to customize it:

Switch the protein. Not a fan of chicken breasts? Swap them for boneless thighs or even salmon fillets for a pescatarian twist.

Add veggies. Enhance the dish by incorporating mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. Sauté them alongside the garlic before adding the sauce ingredients.

Make it spicy. Love a little heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce.

Lighten it up. For a lower-calorie option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of Parmesan slightly.

Dairy-free version. Use a dairy-free cream alternative and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for a creamy, cheesy flavor without the dairy.

This Baked Tuscan Chicken Breasts recipe is more than just a meal – it’s an experience. From its rich, creamy sauce to its sun-dried tomato and spinach accents, every bite is a little taste of Tuscany. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy!