Low Carb Tuscan Chicken Recipe
If you’re craving a rich, satisfying, and low-carb meal, this Low Carb Tuscan Chicken recipe delivers all the flavor and comfort you want without the extra carbs. Inspired by the flavors of Tuscany, this dish features juicy chicken breasts smothered in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach.
It’s ideal for keto, low-carb, or gluten-free diets, and it’s simple enough to make any night of the week. Whether you’re meal prepping, cooking for family, or entertaining guests, this Tuscan chicken is sure to become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Low carb, keto-friendly, and gluten-free
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Rich and creamy sauce loaded with flavor
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Uses wholesome ingredients with minimal processing
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Easy to prepare with simple steps
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Can be served with low-carb sides like zoodles or cauliflower rice
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Flexible for substitutions and variations
The Story Behind Tuscan Chicken
Tuscan cuisine is all about simple, fresh ingredients and bold, rustic flavors. The classic Tuscan Chicken features garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and Parmesan — a winning combination that brings a bit of Italy into your kitchen.
This dish has evolved in many kitchens around the world, often adapted to suit various dietary needs. This version keeps it low carb by focusing on rich dairy, healthy fats, and fresh veggies without pasta or bread. The creamy sauce and tender chicken make it feel indulgent while keeping carbs in check.
Serving Suggestions
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Zucchini noodles (zoodles): Light and low carb pasta substitute.
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Cauliflower rice: Nutritious and low carb base for the creamy sauce.
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Steamed or roasted asparagus: Adds texture and freshness.
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Side salad: Mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette complements richness.
Variations & Add-Ons
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Chicken Thighs: Juicier and more flavorful than breasts, but slightly higher fat.
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Add Mushrooms: Sauté mushrooms with garlic for an earthy flavor.
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Add Artichoke Hearts: For tangy, Mediterranean flair.
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Use Coconut Cream: For dairy-free or paleo versions, swap heavy cream with canned coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
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Make it Spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
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Add Protein: Stir in cooked bacon or pancetta for smokiness.
Tips for Perfect Low Carb Tuscan Chicken
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Don’t overcrowd the pan: Sear chicken in batches if needed to get a nice crust.
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Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and garlic make a big flavor difference.
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Shred or slice chicken: For meal prep or easier eating, slice the chicken before serving.
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Let sauce thicken: If your sauce is thin, simmer longer to concentrate flavors and texture.
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Reserve pan juices: After cooking chicken, scraping up browned bits (fond) adds rich flavor to the sauce
Storing & Meal Prep
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Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Reheating: Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
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Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken and sauce separately for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in fridge and reheat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen spinach?
A: Yes, but thaw and drain excess water before adding to the sauce to avoid watering it down.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative.
Q: What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?
A: Use roasted red peppers or omit for a milder sauce.
Q: Can this be made in the oven?
A: Yes, sear the chicken, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Prepare sauce separately on stovetop.
Final Thoughts
This Low Carb Tuscan Chicken recipe strikes the perfect balance between indulgent flavor and health-conscious eating. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with fresh veggies, all while keeping carbs low and protein high. The rich sauce paired with tender chicken will satisfy any craving and is sure to impress at any meal.
Low Carb Tuscan Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (or sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sear the chicken:
Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Sear chicken on both sides until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F), about 5–7 minutes per side. Remove and set aside. - Make the sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce heat slightly and add garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until sauce begins to thicken. - Add veggies:
Stir in tomatoes and spinach. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, until spinach is wilted and tomatoes are softened. - Finish the dish:
Return chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over the top, and simmer together for 3–4 minutes. - Garnish and serve:
Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley. Serve hot.