Introduction

Craving a restaurant-style meal that won’t derail your low-carb or keto eating plan? Look no

further than this Creamy Tuscan Chicken—a Keto Delight that feels downright indulgent.

Imagine juicy chicken breasts smothered in a rich, garlicky cream sauce packed with

sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a generous sprinkling of parmesan cheese. This dish

serves up a luxurious combination of flavors while staying keto-friendly by limiting

carbohydrates and highlighting high-quality fats.

Ready in about 30 minutes, this Tuscan-inspired recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners,

special occasions, or whenever you need a warm, comforting meal. Plus, you only need

one pan, so cleanup is a breeze. Whether you’re strictly following a keto regimen or simply

love delicious, creamy chicken dishes, this recipe is easy to make and devour.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Keto-Friendly: With just a handful of net carbs per serving, this meal is perfect for a

low-carb lifestyle.

2. Rich and Creamy: The sauce features heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and the

natural flavors of sun-dried tomatoes for a luxurious texture.

3. One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes mean more time to enjoy your meal.

4. Versatile: Serve it over zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or steamed veggies to

keep it low-carb, or pair it with pasta for non-keto family members.

5. Fast & Easy: This can be on the table in under 30 minutes, making it a fantastic

choice for busy nights.

Ingredients

Below is what you’ll need for about four servings. Feel free to scale up if you feed a larger

crowd or want leftovers.

For the Chicken:

● 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1½ to 2 pounds total)

● 1 teaspoon salt

● ½ teaspoon black pepper

● ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional for extra flavor)

● 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil (for searing)For the Creamy Tuscan Sauce:

● 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

● 3 cloves garlic, minced (or one teaspoon garlic powder if you’re in a pinch)

● ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped (oil-packed is best; pat them dry)

● 1 cup heavy cream (or heavy whipping cream)

● ½ cup chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)

● 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (a blend of basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary)

● ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese

● 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped or left whole (baby spinach works well)

● Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ins:

● Red pepper flakes if you like a hint of spice

● Extra parmesan for garnish

● Fresh basil for a final, aromatic touch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season & Sear the Chicken

1. Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess

moisture. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and (optional) garlic powder.

2. Heat the Pan: Warm one tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat in a large

skillet (preferably non-stick or cast iron).

3. Sear the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the hot oil, ensuring that they do not

crowd them. Cook for 4–5 minutes on each side or until nicely browned. You’re not

cooking them thoroughly yet; you’re just aiming for a golden crust.

4. Transfer & Tent: Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Tent loosely with

foil to keep them warm.

Pro Tip: If your chicken breasts are thick, consider pounding them to an even thickness for

quicker, more even cooking.

Step 2: Build the Sauce

1. Sauté Garlic: Reduce the heat to medium. Add two tablespoons of butter to the

same skillet. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic, cooking for about 30 seconds

until fragrant.

2. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Toss in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Stir for 1

minute to infuse the butter with their flavor.3. Pour in Cream & Broth: Gently pour in the 1 cup of heavy cream and ½ cup chicken

broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a low simmer.

4. Season: Add one teaspoon of Italian seasoning, plus a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir

well.

Pro Tip: If you prefer a thicker sauce, skip or reduce the broth. If it gets too thick, add more

broth or cream to thin it back out.

Step 3: Incorporate Spinach & Cheese

1. Add Spinach: Stir in 2 cups of spinach leaves. They will wilt quickly in the warm

sauce, usually within 1–2 minutes.

2. Melt Parmesan: Sprinkle in the ¼ cup of grated parmesan cheese. Stir until the

cheese fully melts into the sauce.

3. Taste and Adjust: Sample the sauce. If you like heat, add salt, pepper, or even a

pinch of red pepper flakes.

Pro Tip: Sun-dried tomatoes can be salty, so taste the sauce before adding extra salt.

Step 4: Return the Chicken

1. Nestle Chicken In: Place the partially cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet.

Spoon the sauce over each piece to coat them well.

2. Simmer to Finish Cooking: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the chicken

simmer in the sauce for about 5–7 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature

of 165°F (74°C).

3. Final Touches: Turn off the heat and let the dish sit for a minute or two. This resting

time helps the sauce thicken, and flavors meld.

Pro Tip: If your chicken breasts are especially thick, you may need to simmer them for an

extra few minutes. Use a thermometer for best results.

Serving Suggestions

● Low-Carb Sides: Serve over zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or steamed

broccoli to keep it keto-friendly.

● For Non-Keto Eaters: Pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread are fantastic for

soaking up the sauce.

● Garnish: Top with extra parmesan cheese or fresh basil for a bright pop of color and

flavor.Meal Prep & Storage

1. Make Ahead: You can sear the chicken and prep the sauce ingredients in advance.

Then, combine and finish cooking when you’re ready to eat.

2. Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.

3. Reheating: Warm gently over low heat in a skillet. If the sauce is too thick, add a

splash of cream or broth to loosen it. The microwave works in a pinch but can

overcook the chicken, making it rubbery.

4. Freezing: Cream sauces can sometimes separate upon thawing, but it’s still

possible. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the

fridge, then reheat slowly, stirring well.

Pro Tip: Reheat slowly to maintain the sauce’s creamy texture. A high heat can cause the

cream to curdle.

Variations & Substitutions

● Protein Options: If desired, swap chicken breasts for boneless thighs or even pork

chops. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

● Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and omit the cheese. The

flavor will shift slightly, but you’ll still have a creamy, keto-friendly dish.

● Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms, sliced zucchini, or bell peppers to the skillet for

more color and nutrients.

● Herb Lovers: Mix fresh herbs like basil or parsley into the sauce before serving for

an extra flavor.

Common Questions

Q: Is this low-carb or keto?

A: Yes. The dish mainly contains protein, healthy fats, and minimal carbs from spinach and

sun-dried tomatoes. Be sure to check the labels on your broth and sun-dried tomatoes for

any hidden sugars or carbs.

Q: Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

A: Technically, yes—but your sauce may be thinner and more prone to curdling if

overheated. Heavy cream offers the best consistency and richness.

Q: What if my sauce is too runny?

A: Let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes. The sauce will thicken as the liquid

evaporates. Alternatively, stir in a small cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with

one tablespoon water) if you’re not strictly keto.Q: Why do I need to sear the chicken first?

A: Searing locks in juices and creates a flavorful crust. It also imparts a richer flavor to the

overall dish.

Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?

A: Yes, but you’ll need to adapt the recipe. Sear the chicken first, then add it to the slow

cooker with the other ingredients (except spinach and cheese). Cook on low for 3–4 hours or

until the chicken is done. Stir in the spinach and cheese toward the end, and let it melt.

Conclusion

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken truly lives up to its Keto Delight label. With a decadent

cream sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and savory spinach all coming together around tender

chicken, every bite feels like a treat—even though you’re sticking to your low-carb goals. The

fact that it’s a one-pan dish you can make in about 30 minutes only adds to its appeal,

making it a weeknight hero for those craving effortless and elevated.

Serve it alongside zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or a simple side salad for a full

keto-friendly meal. And don’t hesitate to customize: add extra veggies, try different herbs,

or adjust the spice level to suit your palate. However you make it your own, this recipe will

quickly earn a spot in your regular rotation. Enjoy the creamy, Tuscan-inspired flavors—and

feel good about every forkful.