Go Back

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Skillet (High Protein, Dairy Light) - A Cozy, Weeknight Favorite

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5–2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), thinly sliced or cut into cutlets
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus more if needed)
  • 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and sliced
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano + 1/2 teaspoon dried basil)
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (2% or 5%)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional, for extra richness)
  • 3 cups baby spinach
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon
  • Fresh basil, chopped (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Prep the chicken: Pat dry and season with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides.
  • Sear: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add chicken in a single layer. Cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden and mostly cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
  • Sauté aromatics: Lower heat to medium. Add a drizzle more oil if needed. Stir in garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
  • Build the sauce: Pour in chicken broth. Stir in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes. Scrape up browned bits. Simmer 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
  • Make it creamy (dairy light): Turn heat to low. In a small bowl, whisk Greek yogurt with a few spoonfuls of hot broth from the pan to temper. Stir the tempered yogurt into the skillet until smooth. Do not boil.
  • Add greens: Stir in spinach until wilted. If using Parmesan, add now and stir until melted.
  • Finish the chicken: Return chicken and accumulated juices to the skillet. Simmer gently 2–4 minutes until cooked through (165°F internal). Squeeze in lemon juice and adjust salt and pepper.
  • Serve: Top with fresh basil if you like. Spoon over pasta, rice, or roasted veggies.