Creamy Tuscan Chicken (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Water-Based Cooking)
This Creamy Tuscan Chicken brings together tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and coconut milk for a comforting, dairy-free meal made entirely without oil. Broth, coconut milk, and an arrowroot slurry create the luscious texture, while water-based cooking keeps it light and nourishing. It’s a one-pan, weeknight-friendly recipe that tastes indulgent yet supports gut health and balanced digestion.
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch Oven
Ingredients
- 1 - 1¼ cups chicken broth slightly divided for cooking
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-size pieces
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ⅓ cup finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil or soaked in water if dried
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice or juice of 1/2 large lemon
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon arrowroot powder
- 1 tablespoon water
- White rice or cauliflower rice for serving
- Fresh chopped parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot or deep skillet over medium high heat, add enough broth to cover the bottom (about ½ cup). Once simmering, add the chicken and a pinch of sea salt. Cook 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until mostly cooked through. Add a splash more broth if needed to prevent sticking. Remove and set aside.
- Add the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes to the same skillet with a little more broth if needed. Sauté until fragrant, about 1–2 minutes.
- Stir in the remaining broth (or white wine if using), lemon juice, lemon zest, and Italian seasoning. Let simmer 2–3 minutes to allow flavors to combine.
- Return the chicken to the skillet. Pour in the coconut milk and stir well to coat. Simmer 5 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce begins to thicken slightly.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the arrowroot powder and water to form a slurry. Stir into the skillet and continue cooking 4 to 5 minutes, until the sauce thickens to your liking.
- Spoon the Tuscan chicken over white rice, cauliflower rice or base of choice. Top with with fresh parsley or basil if desired.