There’s something about creamy Tuscan dishes that screams comfort. And this GF DF Creamy Tuscan Chicken (no dairy) is my go-to recipe when I want something hearty yet nourishing. I created it on a chilly October evening, long after I had said goodbye to dairy and wheat. As a Tuscan-born chef living gluten-free, recreating the rich creaminess of this classic dish without the usual cream or cheese was a challenge, but one I welcomed with open arms and a wooden spoon in hand.
This version doesn’t sacrifice flavor. The sauce is velvety thanks to creamy coconut milk and a touch of nutritional yeast for a cheesy undertone, without the dairy. It’s a recipe that’s become a reader favorite on the site, especially during the fall months when cozy dinners are essential. If you love recipes like Lemon Herb Gluten-Free Chicken Skillet or crave comfort like Gluten-Free Chicken Noodle Soup, this one is for you.
Let’s dive into everything you need to make this seasonal classic that’s 100% gluten-free, dairy-free, and full of rustic Italian flavor.
GF DF Creamy Tuscan Chicken (No Dairy)
Equipment
- large skillet
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs or mix of oregano, thyme, basil
For the Sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil or dairy-free butter
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 small yellow onion finely diced
- 13.5 oz full-fat coconut milk
- 1 tbsp arrowroot starch or gluten-free flour for thickening
- 3 tbsp nutritional yeast
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 0.25 cup fresh basil chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Pat chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and cover to keep warm.
- In the same pan, reduce heat to medium. Add 2 tbsp olive oil and sauté garlic and onion for 2–3 minutes until soft and fragrant.
- Whisk arrowroot starch with a splash of water. Add coconut milk, nutritional yeast, and arrowroot slurry to the pan. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens (3–5 minutes). Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and simmer briefly.
- Stir in spinach until wilted. Return chicken to the pan and spoon sauce over the top. Simmer for 2 more minutes. Sprinkle with chopped basil and serve warm.
Notes
Nutrition
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making GF DF Creamy Tuscan Chicken (no dairy) starts with simple, wholesome ingredients. You likely have many of these on hand.
For the chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or mix of oregano, thyme, basil)
For the sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil or dairy-free butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- 1 tbsp arrowroot starch or GF flour (for thickening)
- 3 tbsp nutritional yeast
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil, drained and chopped)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Optional: 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
This recipe is already gluten-free and dairy-free, but pairs well with Gluten-Free Chicken Tenders or over your favorite pasta substitute or cauliflower mash.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how to prepare your cozy fall dinner in under 35 minutes.
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and cover to keep warm.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In the same pan, reduce heat to medium and add 2 tbsp olive oil. Stir in the garlic and onion. Cook for 2–3 minutes until soft and fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Pour in the coconut milk, nutritional yeast, and arrowroot starch (whisked with a bit of water). Stir constantly until the sauce begins to thicken, about 3–5 minutes. Add sun-dried tomatoes and let simmer.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Add spinach to the sauce and stir until wilted. Return the chicken to the pan and spoon sauce over the top. Simmer 2 more minutes, then sprinkle with fresh basil and serve warm.
If you’re planning ahead, pair it with a quick side like Easy Gluten-Free Dinner Recipes for a full meal.
Tips for Success
To make your GF DF Creamy Tuscan Chicken (no dairy) flawless every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Don’t overcook the chicken. For juicy results, remove it as soon as it hits 165°F internally.
- Use quality sun-dried tomatoes. They add a punch of umami to balance the creaminess.
- Let the sauce simmer. Coconut milk thickens as it cooks. Be patient and stir gently.
- Add depth with broth. A splash of chicken broth adds richness if you want a thinner sauce.
Need meal prep ideas? This dish reheats wonderfully, just like our Classic Gluten-Free Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes.
Variations to Try
Want to switch things up? These easy variations work beautifully with this recipe.
- Vegan version: Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu. Add more spinach for bulk.
- With gluten-free pasta: Serve it over brown rice pasta or zucchini noodles for a lighter option.
- Add mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions for a deeper, earthy flavor.
- Creamier texture: For extra creamy sauce, blend a portion of the coconut milk with a cooked cauliflower floret before adding to the skillet.
And for something equally creamy and satisfying, you might also enjoy our Quick Gluten-Free Chicken Stir Fry.
How to Store & Reheat
Here’s how to keep your creamy Tuscan chicken delicious for days:
- Store: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: This dish freezes well. Let it cool, portion into freezer-safe bags, and store for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of dairy-free milk if needed.
Make a double batch for busy weeks, just like with our hearty Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use almond or oat milk instead of coconut milk?
Coconut milk offers the creamiest texture, but almond or oat milk can work if you thicken it slightly and don’t mind a lighter flavor.
Is nutritional yeast necessary?
It adds that “cheesy” depth without dairy, but if you don’t have it, skip it or try a little Dijon mustard for tang.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Sear the chicken first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 3–4 hours. Stir in spinach at the end.
What can I serve this with?
It pairs well with gluten-free pasta, cauliflower mash, rice, or even Gluten-Free Chicken Piccata for a Tuscan chicken duo dinner.
Conclusion
This GF DF Creamy Tuscan Chicken (no dairy) is more than just a meal, it’s a bowl of Italian warmth brought to your gluten-free, dairy-free kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for your family or yourself, this recipe is beginner-friendly and absolutely full of flavor. With pantry staples and real food ingredients, you can enjoy comfort food again, just like I do every fall.
Ready for your next cozy dinner? Try pairing this dish with something from our Easy Gluten-Free Dinner Recipes collection.