Optavia Tuscan Chicken RECIPE DETAILS
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Medium
Ready to transport your taste buds to Tuscany while staying perfectly on plan? This Optavia Tuscan chicken recipe isn’t just another healthy dinner – it’s a creamy, dreamy Italian escape that proves healthy eating can feel indulgent. As a coach who’s helped countless clients stick to their goals, I can tell you – this dish is a total game-changer.
Whether you’re craving traditional pasta or just need a break from basic chicken recipes, this Optavia Tuscan chicken breast recipe delivers all the flavors of your favorite Italian restaurant dish. And for those nights when you’re really missing pasta? I’ll show you how to serve this over spaghetti squash for the ultimate healthy comfort meal.
Why This Recipe Works
This isn’t just any Tuscan garlic chicken – it’s a carefully crafted lean and green version that keeps all the flavor while fitting perfectly into your healthy lifestyle. The secret lies in the creamy sauce that tastes indulgent but stays completely on plan. Plus, it’s one of those versatile recipes that works with both chicken breast or chicken thighs!
Ingredients
- 4 (6 oz) chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (not in oil)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 2 tbsp Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp paprika
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Coach’s Tip: For the perfect Tuscan chicken and vegetables saute, butterfly your chicken breasts to ensure even cooking and maximum flavor absorption!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Instructions
Let’s create this creamy Tuscan chicken and veggies lean and green recipe:
- Season chicken with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken 6-7 minutes per side until golden.
- Remove chicken; in same pan, sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add almond milk and Greek yogurt, whisking to create a smooth sauce.
- Return chicken to pan, add sun-dried tomatoes and spinach.
- Simmer 5-7 minutes until sauce thickens and spinach wilts.
Coach’s Truth: The key to the perfect healthy creamy Tuscan chicken is letting that sauce reduce just enough to coat the back of a spoon – patience pays off here!
Coaching Corner
After helping hundreds of clients master this Optavia Tuscan chicken recipe:
- Yes, you can use chicken thighs! Just adjust cooking time accordingly
- Meal prep tip: The flavors get even better overnight
- Perfect for serving company – no one will guess it’s healthy!
- Serve over spaghetti squash for the ultimate comfort food fix
Storage & Meal Prep
Make the most of this Tuscan getaway baked chicken:
- Stores perfectly for 3-4 days
- Sauce may thicken – thin with a splash of almond milk
- Reheat gently to prevent sauce separation
Diet Framework Compatibility
Optavia
- Lean and Green Portions: 1 serving = 1 complete lean and green meal
- Condiment Counts: 3 condiments per serving
Low Carb
- Total Carbs: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Net Carbs: 5g
Mediterranean Diet
- Perfectly aligned with Mediterranean principles
- Rich in lean protein and vegetables
Recipe Variations
Take this Tuscan garlic chicken to the next level:
- Veggie Loaded: Add mushrooms and bell peppers
- Extra Creamy: Double the Greek yogurt
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes
FAQ
Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes for chicken breasts, 10 for thighs.
What’s the best way to butterfly chicken breasts?
Place your hand flat on top and slice horizontally with a sharp knife.
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, just thaw and squeeze dry before adding.
Let’s Keep It Real
This optavia Tuscan chicken proves that eating healthy doesn’t mean giving up your favorite flavors. It’s the perfect example of how we can transform traditional recipes into lean and green masterpieces that satisfy both your cravings and your goals.
