Tuscan Chicken (Marry Me Chicken)

Why you will love this recipe

• Rich & Creamy: The parmesan cream sauce is velvety smooth and packed with flavor.
• One-Pan Meal: Everything cooks in a single skillet for easy cleanup.
• Low Carb Option: Serve with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly meal.
• Full of Tuscan Flavors: Sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic give it that classic Italian-inspired taste.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps and common ingredients make this a great weeknight dinner.

Key ingredients and substitutions

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – The star of the dish! You can also use boneless chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Adds a sweet, tangy depth of flavor. If you don’t have them, try roasted red peppers for a different twist.
• Heavy Cream – Creates that rich, creamy parmesan sauce. For a lighter version, use half-and-half or coconut milk.
• Parmesan Cheese – Melts into the sauce for a bold, cheesy finish. Use Parmigiano Reggiano for the best results.
• Garlic & Onion – Essential aromatics that add depth and warmth to the dish.
• Italian Seasoning & Paprika – A simple blend that gives this dish its signature Tuscan flavor.
• White Wine – Enhances the sauce with a touch of acidity. Substitute with extra chicken broth if you prefer.
• Chicken Stock – Helps create a smooth, flavorful sauce. Chicken broth works just as well.
• Fresh Basil – Brightens the dish at the end. Swap with fresh parsley if needed.
• Lemon Juice – A splash at the end balances the richness.

How to make Tuscan Chicken

1. Sear the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and black pepper, then sear for about 5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet and turn the heat to low. Toss in the diced onion, minced garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, paprika, and oregano. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the onion softens and everything becomes fragrant.
3. Deglaze the pan: Pour in the white wine to deglaze the bottom of the pan, scraping up those browned bits with a wooden spoon for extra flavor.
4. Make it creamy: Add the heavy cream, chicken stock, and parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Simmer the chicken: Return the seared chicken to the pan, cover, and let it simmer for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through. The sauce will thicken, and the chicken will soak up all the delicious flavors.
6. Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, or slice into the thickest part to check that the juices run clear.
7. Add the final touches: Remove the pan from heat, stir in the fresh basil, and squeeze in the lemon juice. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Recipe notes and tips

• Thinner Cutlets Work Best: If your chicken breasts are thick, slice them in half horizontally for quicker, more even cooking.
• Deglaze Like a Pro: Scrape the browned bits off the bottom of the pan with your wooden spoon after adding the white wine—this is where the magic happens!
• Don’t Rush the Simmer: Letting the chicken cook in the sauce ensures it stays juicy and soaks up all the creamy, garlicky goodness.
• Adjust the Thickness: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
• Cheese Choice Matters: Use freshly grated parmesan (not the pre-shredded kind) for the best melt and texture.

Variations

• Coconut Milk Version: Swap out the heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free twist that still keeps things creamy.
• Veggie-Packed: Add sautéed mushrooms, red peppers, or artichoke hearts for extra texture and flavor.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Stir in extra parmesan or even a handful of shredded mozzarella for an ultra-creamy sauce.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• White Wine Swap: If you don’t want to use wine, replace it with extra chicken broth and a splash of lemon juice for acidity.
• Tuscan Shrimp: Swap the chicken for shrimp and adjust the cooking time accordingly—shrimp cook much faster!

What to serve with Tuscan chicken

• Pasta: Classic choices like fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti soak up the creamy parmesan sauce beautifully.
• Low-Carb Options: Serve with zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, radish rice, or spaghetti squash for a lighter alternative.
• Vegetables: Roasted green beans, asparagus, or sautéed spinach make great side dishes.
• Bread: A slice of crusty bread or garlic bread is perfect for scooping up that delicious sauce.
• Salad: A simple side salad with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette adds freshness to balance the creamy flavors.
• Rice & Grains: Serve over white rice, brown rice, or quinoa for a heartier meal.

Frequently asked questions