Creamy Tuscan Chicken Only 357 Calories
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Only 357 Calories! is a easy Italian recipe that serves 2. 357 calories per serving. Recipe by Curtis High on YouTube.
Prep: 10 min | Cook: 17 min | Total: 37 min
Cost: $21.89 total, $10.95 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 pieces Chicken Breast (boneless, skinless; about 400 g total; seasoned with salt, black pepper and Italian seasoning)
- to taste pinch Salt (for seasoning)
- to taste pinch Black Pepper (freshly ground preferred)
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning (dry blend of herbs)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (for pan‑frying)
- 1/2 medium Onion (diced)
- 200 grams Sun‑Dried Tomatoes (sliced, packed in oil, drained)
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 2 cups Spinach (fresh, loosely packed)
- 250 ml Low‑Fat Double Cream (light version, 2% fat)
- 25 grams Low‑Fat Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
Instructions
Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry, then season both sides with salt, black pepper and Italian seasoning.
Time: PT2M
Sear the Chicken
Heat the skillet over medium heat, add olive oil, and place the chicken breasts in the pan. Cook 3‑4 minutes per side until golden brown.
Time: PT8M
Temperature: medium heat
Rest the Chicken
Transfer the seared chicken to a plate and set aside while you build the sauce.
Time: PT1M
Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the diced onion, sliced sun‑dried tomatoes and minced garlic. Stir and cook until the onion becomes translucent.
Time: PT4M
Temperature: medium heat
Wilt the Spinach
Add the fresh spinach and cook, stirring, until it just begins to wilt.
Time: PT2M
Temperature: medium heat
Create the Cream Sauce
Pour in the low‑fat double cream and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
Time: PT3M
Temperature: medium heat
Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon the sauce over them, and let everything heat together for another minute.
Time: PT2M
Serve
Transfer the chicken to plates, drizzle any remaining sauce on top, and enjoy immediately.
Time: PT1M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 357
- Protein
- 51 g
- Carbohydrates
- 8 g
- Fat
- 15 g
- Fiber
- 2 g
Dietary info: High protein, Low carb, Gluten‑free, Low calorie
Allergens: Milk, Dairy
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Chicken Breast: Turkey Breast
- Instead of Salt: Sea Salt
- Instead of Black Pepper: White Pepper
- Instead of Italian Seasoning: Herbes de Provence
- Instead of Olive Oil: Canola Oil, Avocado Oil
- Instead of Onion: Shallot
- Instead of Sun‑Dried Tomatoes: Roasted Red Peppers
- Instead of Garlic: Garlic Powder (1/4 tsp)
- Instead of Spinach: Kale (stems removed)
- Instead of Low‑Fat Double Cream: Half‑and‑Half, Light Cream
- Instead of Low‑Fat Cheddar Cheese: Reduced‑fat Mozzarella
Equipment Needed
- Non‑Stick Skillet
- Cutting Board
- Chef's Knife
- Measuring Spoons
- Measuring Cup
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- Plate (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Sear the Chicken until golden brown
- Create the Cream Sauce without scorching
- Combine Chicken and Sauce to finish cooking
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use fresh baby spinach for a brighter color and milder flavor
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a good sear
- If you prefer a richer sauce, substitute half of the low‑fat cream with full‑fat cream but keep the calorie count in mind
Troubleshooting
Sauce separates or looks grainy
Lower the heat immediately and whisk vigorously; add a splash of extra cream or a teaspoon of water to bring it back together.
Chicken turns out dry
Do not over‑cook; the chicken only needs to be golden brown initially because it finishes cooking in the sauce.
Spinach releases too much water
Add the spinach at the very end and cook just until wilted; excess moisture will evaporate quickly.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Not recommended because the cream may separate; if needed, freeze for up to 1 month and reheat gently.
Room temperature: Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the sauce up to the point before adding cheese and keep refrigerated; reheat gently and add cheese just before serving
- Season and sear the chicken ahead of time, then store in the fridge and finish with the sauce when ready
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Creamy Tuscan Chicken in Italian cuisine?
Creamy Tuscan Chicken draws on the Tuscan tradition of simple, rustic dishes that highlight high‑quality ingredients like olive oil, tomatoes and fresh greens. While traditional Tuscan cooking often uses heavy cream, modern adaptations like this low‑fat version reflect contemporary health‑conscious trends in Italian home cooking.
What are the traditional regional variations of Tuscan chicken dishes in Italy?
In Tuscany, chicken is commonly prepared "alla Cacciatora" with tomatoes, olives and herbs, or "alla Panna" with a richer cream sauce. Some regions add white wine, mushrooms, or pecorino cheese. The version presented by Curtis High simplifies the sauce with low‑fat cream and cheddar, a nod to American tastes.
How is Creamy Tuscan Chicken traditionally served in Tuscany?
Traditionally, Tuscan chicken dishes are served with rustic sides such as roasted potatoes, polenta or a simple salad of arugula and lemon. The creamy sauce is spooned over the meat and often accompanied by a glass of Chianti.
What occasions or celebrations is Creamy Tuscan Chicken traditionally associated with in Italian culture?
While not tied to a specific holiday, chicken dishes with rich sauces are popular for family gatherings, Sunday lunches and festive meals in Italy. The quick preparation makes it suitable for both everyday dinners and special occasions.
What other Italian dishes pair well with Creamy Tuscan Chicken?
Pairs beautifully with buttery garlic bread, a light lemon‑olive oil pasta, or a simple roasted vegetable medley. A crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette balances the richness of the sauce.
What makes Creamy Tuscan Chicken special or unique in Italian‑inspired cuisine?
It combines classic Tuscan flavors—sun‑dried tomatoes, spinach, olive oil—with a low‑fat cream sauce that keeps the dish high in protein and lower in calories, catering to modern health‑focused diners while preserving authentic taste.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Creamy Tuscan Chicken?
Common errors include over‑cooking the chicken, letting the cream boil which causes separation, and adding spinach too early which releases excess water. Follow the timing cues and keep the heat at medium for a smooth sauce.
Why does this Creamy Tuscan Chicken recipe use low‑fat double cream instead of heavy cream?
Low‑fat double cream provides a creamy texture while reducing calories and saturated fat, aligning with the recipe’s goal of 357 calories per serving and 51 g of protein. It still thickens nicely when combined with cheddar cheese.
Can I make Creamy Tuscan Chicken ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes. Cook the chicken and sauce separately, store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
What does the YouTube channel Curtis High specialize in?
The YouTube channel Curtis High focuses on quick, nutritious home‑cooked meals that balance flavor with health benefits, often highlighting high‑protein, low‑calorie recipes suitable for busy lifestyles.
How does the YouTube channel Curtis High's approach to Italian cooking differ from other Italian cooking channels?
Curtis High adapts classic Italian flavors to modern, health‑conscious cooking by using lower‑fat dairy, lean proteins, and streamlined techniques, whereas many traditional Italian channels emphasize richer, indulgent preparations.
Last updated: August 30, 2026
