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Creamy Tuscan Chicken

One of NYT Cooking's most popular recipes of 2026! Seared chicken breasts in a rich garlic-Parmesan cream sauce with bursting cherry tomatoes and wilted spinach. A one-pan, 30-minute dinner inspired by the Olive Garden classic.

Prep10 minutes
Cook20 minutes
Serves4

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total)
  • 3/4 tsp kosher salt, divided
  • 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tbsp dried oregano
  • 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
  • 1 medium shallot, minced
  • 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and patted dry
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 oz Parmesan cheese, finely grated
  • 5 oz baby spinach (about 5 packed cups)

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken dry and season all over with 1/2 tsp salt, pepper, and oregano. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken until deeply browned, 3-5 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate.
  2. Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining 1 tbsp oil, shallot, and saute until softened, about 1 minute. Add sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and remaining 1/4 tsp salt; saute until fragrant, 30 seconds.
  3. Add white wine and scrape up browned bits. Simmer until reduced by half, 30-60 seconds. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan. Add spinach a handful at a time, stirring until wilted, 2-3 minutes.
  4. Return chicken and any juices to the skillet. Simmer until chicken is warmed through and sauce thickens, 3-4 minutes. Serve over pasta or with crusty bread.
🍸 Suggested Cocktail Pairing
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Gin Sour
🌿 Gin

Lighter spirits like gin or vodka pair elegantly with chicken, while rum adds tropical flair.

A foundational cocktail — gin, lemon, sugar, and egg white. Simple, balanced, and elegant. The egg white adds silky texture and a foamy top that tr...

View Cocktail Recipe →
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