Keto Tuscan Garlic Chicken: Quick & Creamy Dinner You’ll Love!

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ingredients image of close up studio shot of the ingredients for Keto Tuscan Garlic Chicken on a rustic wooden table with natural lighting a creamy sauce garlic sun dried tomatoes spinach and chicken breasts in an artistic arrangement with some fresh basil leaves scattered around

From My Kitchen to Yours: A Tuscan Dream in a Skillet

Have you ever wondered if a single dish could transport you to a sun-drenched Italian hillside, even on a hectic Tuesday evening? It sounds like a daydream, doesn’t it? The air thick with the scent of garlic and herbs, a glass of wine in hand, and a meal so deeply comforting it feels like a hug from the inside out. For years, I believed that kind of magic required a plane ticket and a free week. But then, I discovered that the heart of Tuscany could be found right in my skillet. This Keto Tuscan Garlic Chicken is more than just a recipe; it’s a story of flavor, a testament to the fact that healthy eating can feel wonderfully indulgent. When my husband, Ethan, and I were first trying to cut back on carbs, the biggest challenge was finding meals that didn’t feel like a sacrifice. We craved richness, flavor, and that soul-warming satisfaction that comes from a truly great dinner. This dish was born from that craving, a beautiful marriage of creamy, savory, and vibrant tastes that fits perfectly into a keto lifestyle. It’s a meal that whispers of slow living and gourmet flavors but comes together with surprising ease, proving that you don’t need to choose between feeling good and eating well. It’s one of those recipes that has become a constant in our family, a familiar aroma that brings Olivia and James running to the table, their faces bright with anticipation. It’s my little piece of culinary sunshine, and I’m so excited to share it with you.

Why You’ll Love This Keto Tuscan Garlic Chicken

This isn’t just another chicken dinner; it’s a game changer for busy weeknights and a true star when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s the kind of meal that solves the eternal “what’s for dinner?” question with a resounding, delicious answer. Ethan and I have made this countless times, and each time, we’re reminded of just how special it is. It’s our go to for a reason, or rather, for several reasons.

  • Effortlessly Elegant in Under 30 Minutes: Who says gourmet has to be complicated? This entire dish comes together in one skillet in less than half an hour. It’s the perfect answer for those evenings when you crave something special but are short on time. The flavors are so complex and satisfying, no one will ever guess it was so simple to prepare. It’s a true quick and easy creamy weeknight meal.
  • A Symphony of Rich, Creamy Flavors: The sauce is where the magic happens. We’re talking about heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, savory chicken broth, and garlic coming together to create a luscious, velvety sauce that coats every single piece of chicken. The sun dried tomatoes add a pop of sweet, tangy intensity, while the fresh spinach brings a touch of earthy goodness. It’s pure comfort in a bowl.
  • Perfectly Keto and Low Carb: With its focus on healthy fats and protein, this recipe is a dream for anyone following a keto or low carb diet. It’s naturally gluten free and packed with flavor, so you can indulge without a second thought. It proves that you don’t have to give up decadent meals to stay on track with your health goals.
  • Family Approved and Kid Friendly: Despite its sophisticated name, this dish is a huge hit with the whole family. The creamy sauce and tender chicken are irresistible to little ones. Olivia and James always ask for seconds, and I love knowing they’re eating a meal packed with protein and wholesome ingredients. It’s a dinner that makes everyone at the table happy.
  • One Pan for Easy Cleanup: Everything cooks in a single skillet, which means cleanup is an absolute breeze. That’s a major win in my book! Less time washing dishes means more time relaxing with your family after a delicious meal. It’s the ideal one pot recipe that delivers on both flavor and convenience.

Ingredients for Keto Tuscan Garlic Chicken

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced in half horizontally to make 4 thinner cutlets
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 cup sun dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Substitutions: You can easily use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer. For a dairy free option, you can experiment with full fat coconut cream and a dairy free Parmesan alternative, though the flavor profile will change slightly. Don’t have spinach? Kale works beautifully too, just be sure to cook it a bit longer.

 

 

How to Make Keto Tuscan Garlic Chicken

Step by Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: The first step to a perfect dish is preparing your ingredients. Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel; this is my secret to getting that beautiful golden brown sear. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy here, as this is your first layer of flavor.
  2. Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the chicken cutlets in the pan. Let them cook for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and cooked through. The key is to not overcrowd the pan, so you may need to do this in two batches. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
  3. Build the Fragrant Base: Now, we build the heart of our sauce. Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once it’s melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until it becomes wonderfully fragrant. Be sure to stir constantly to prevent it from burning. There’s nothing quite like the smell of garlic toasting in butter to make a kitchen feel like home.
  4. Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any of those delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon. Those little bits are pure flavor! Let the broth simmer for a minute, then stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Whisk everything together until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and starting to thicken. This is what I call creamy perfection, much like in this delicious Tuscan chicken recipe.
  5. Combine and Simmer: It’s time to bring it all together. Stir the chopped sun dried tomatoes into the sauce, then add the fresh spinach. Let the spinach wilt into the sauce, which should only take a minute or two. The vibrant green against the creamy sauce is just beautiful.
  6. Return the Chicken to the Pan: Nestle the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Spoon some of that glorious sauce over the top of each piece. Let it all simmer together for another 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak up all the incredible flavors of the sauce.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Your masterpiece is ready! Turn off the heat and garnish your Keto Tuscan Garlic Chicken with fresh parsley. The bright, fresh herb cuts through the richness of the cream and adds a final touch of color. Serve it immediately and get ready for the compliments to roll in.

Pro Tips & Variations

Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to make this Keto Tuscan Garlic Chicken absolutely perfect every time, and I’ve also discovered some fun ways to change it up. Here are some of my favorite tips and variations straight from my kitchen to yours.

  • Don’t Crowd the Pan: This is my number one rule for getting a perfect sear on chicken. If you put too many pieces in the skillet at once, they will steam instead of sear, and you’ll miss out on that beautiful golden-brown crust. Cook the chicken in batches if you need to. It’s an extra step that is absolutely worth it for the final flavor and texture.
  • Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: For the smoothest, most luxurious sauce, please use a block of Parmesan cheese and grate it yourself. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti caking agents that can prevent them from melting properly, sometimes resulting in a grainy sauce. Freshly grated Parmesan will melt beautifully, creating that velvety texture we all love.
  • Let the Chicken Rest: After you sear the chicken and remove it from the pan, let it rest on a plate while you make the sauce. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring that every bite is tender and moist.
  • Spicy Tuscan Chicken: If you like a little heat, add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the skillet along with the garlic. It adds a gentle warmth that complements the creamy sauce wonderfully without being overwhelming.
  • Add More Veggies: This recipe is very forgiving and welcomes more vegetables. Sliced mushrooms, chopped artichoke hearts, or roasted red peppers are all fantastic additions. Sauté the mushrooms with the garlic, and add the artichoke hearts or peppers along with the sun dried tomatoes. For another great vegetable and chicken combination, check out this creamy chicken and vegetable recipe.
  • Make it with Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great alternative to breasts. They are incredibly flavorful and forgiving, staying moist even if you accidentally overcook them a bit. The cooking time will be similar, just ensure they are cooked through.

Serving Suggestions

This Keto Tuscan Garlic Chicken is the undeniable star of the plate, but the right companions can elevate it to a truly memorable meal. The creamy, savory sauce is just begging to be soaked up by something delicious. Since we’re keeping things low carb, traditional pasta is off the table, but there are so many wonderful keto friendly options that pair perfectly.

  • Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): This is my favorite way to serve this dish. Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles are the perfect vessel for the rich Tuscan sauce. They are light, healthy, and provide a lovely, fresh contrast to the creamy chicken. I use a spiralizer to make them fresh, but you can also find them pre made in most grocery stores. Just be sure not to overcook them; a quick sauté in a little olive oil is all they need.
  • Cauliflower Rice: For a more rice like experience, serve this chicken over a bed of cauliflower rice. It’s fantastic at soaking up every last drop of the sauce. You can use store bought cauliflower rice or make your own in a food processor. I love to sauté it with a little garlic and butter for extra flavor.
  • Steamed Asparagus or Green Beans: A side of simple, crisp tender steamed asparagus or green beans is a wonderful, light accompaniment. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top adds a bright, zesty note that cuts through the richness of the sauce beautifully. It’s an easy way to add another green vegetable to your plate.
  • A Simple Green Salad: You can never go wrong with a simple salad. A bed of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpoint to the decadent main course. It keeps the meal feeling balanced and adds a lovely, crisp texture. This is a great way to round out a healthy chicken meal.
  • Garlic Bread (Keto Version): If you’re feeling a bit more ambitious, a slice of keto friendly garlic bread is the ultimate companion for sopping up that incredible sauce. You can find many great recipes online for almond flour or coconut flour-based breads, such as this one from Wholesome Yum.

Storage & Reheating for Keto Tuscan Garlic Chicken

One of the best things about this recipe is that the leftovers are just as delicious the next day, making it perfect for meal prep. Storing and reheating it properly will ensure you can enjoy that creamy Tuscan goodness again.

Storage: Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container and it will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 or 4 days. The sauce may thicken slightly in the fridge, but it will loosen up beautifully when reheated.

Reheating: For the best results, I recommend reheating this dish gently in a skillet over low to medium heat. You can add a splash of chicken broth or a touch of cream to the pan to help thin out the sauce as it warms up. Stir occasionally until the chicken is heated through. While you can use a microwave in a pinch, I find that stovetop reheating does a better job of preserving the creamy texture of the sauce.

FAQ about Keto Tuscan Garlic Chicken

Can I make this recipe dairy free?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe to be dairy free. Substitute the heavy cream with full fat canned coconut cream and the butter with a dairy free butter or more olive oil. For the Parmesan cheese, you can use a high quality dairy free alternative or a nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. The taste and texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

What can I use instead of sun dried tomatoes?
If you’re not a fan of sun dried tomatoes or don’t have any on hand, you can substitute them with roasted red peppers or even artichoke hearts. Either option will add a wonderful, savory element to the sauce that complements the garlic and cream.

Is this Keto Tuscan Garlic Chicken recipe good for meal prepping?
Absolutely! This is a fantastic recipe for meal prep. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days. You can portion it out into individual containers with your favorite keto friendly side, like cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles, for quick and easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?
The sauce should naturally thicken from the Parmesan cheese and from simmering. However, if you find your sauce is a bit too thin for your liking, you can let it simmer for a few extra minutes to reduce and thicken. Alternatively, you can mix 1/4 teaspoon of xanthan gum with a tablespoon of the sauce before whisking it back into the pan. A little goes a long way!

Final Thoughts on Keto Tuscan Garlic Chicken

This Keto Tuscan Garlic Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s proof that you can have a dinner that is both incredibly delicious and nourishing, all on a busy weeknight. It’s a recipe that warms the soul and brings a little bit of Italian sunshine into your home.

I truly hope this dish becomes a favorite in your kitchen, just as it has in mine. There’s nothing I love more than seeing my recipes come to life in your homes. If you make it, I would love for you to leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out! And if you love it as much as I do, please consider saving it to your favorite Pinterest board to share with others.

For more stories and simple, heartfelt recipes from my kitchen, be sure to subscribe to our newsletter. We’re so happy to have you as part of our community.

ingredients image of close up studio shot of the ingredients for Keto Tuscan Garlic Chicken on a rustic wooden table with natural lighting a creamy sauce garlic sun dried tomatoes spinach and chicken breasts in an artistic arrangement with some fresh basil leaves scattered around

Keto Tuscan Garlic Chicken

A rich, creamy, low-carb chicken dinner ready in 30 minutes—sun-dried tomatoes, spinach and garlic in a silky parmesan sauce.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course dinner
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 520 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet,

Ingredients
  

Chicken

  • lb boneless skinless chicken breasts sliced horizontally into 2 thinner cutlets each
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Sauce

  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes drained and chopped
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup fresh spinach
  • ¾ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

Instructions
 

  • Season chicken cutlets on both sides with salt, pepper and garlic powder.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
  • Reduce heat to medium. Melt butter in the same pan, add garlic and sauté 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Stir in sun-dried tomatoes; cook 1 minute.
  • Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth; bring to a gentle simmer. Whisk in parmesan and Italian seasoning until melted and smooth.
  • Add spinach and simmer 1-2 minutes until wilted. Return chicken (and any juices) to the pan; spoon sauce over chicken and simmer 2 minutes to heat through.
  • Serve hot with extra sauce spooned on top.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 3 days. Reheat gently to prevent sauce separation.
Keyword Gluten-Free, Keto, Low Carb

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