Table of Contents
Introductions
For many people with irritable bowel syndrome, regular creamy Tuscan chicken recipes are off the table due to ingredients like heavy cream, garlic, and onion that can wreak havoc on your system. If you’ve had to give up indulging in one of the coziest, most comforting dishes of Italian cuisine because of digestive restrictions, this Creamy Tuscan Chicken recipe for IBS is for you.
As someone with IBS myself, I was looking for a way to enjoy the satisfying flavors of a creamy Tuscan skillet without triggering painful symptoms the next day. This version lightens the usual ingredients to be friendlier to a sensitive gut. Using unsweetened almond milk instead of dairy and reducing the amount of onion and spinach produces a rich and satisfying meal that delivers all the herby, tomatoey flavors we love without the digestive distress. Now you too can indulge your tastebuds on nights you want the taste of something cozy and creamy without suffering painful consequences the next day.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- 1/4 cup diced yellow onion
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or other non-dairy milk)
- 2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Season chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium and cook chicken until no longer pink, about 4-6 minutes per side. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil. Add garlic and onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook 1 more minute until fragrant.
- Add spinach and cook 1-2 minutes until just wilted.
- Stir in almond milk and parmesan. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Return chicken to skillet and heat through, about 5 more minutes.
- Serve over zucchini noodles or rice to reduce starch and fiber.
Benefits of Creamy Tuscan Chicken recipe for IBS
Using unsweetened almond milk instead of dairy removes a common IBS trigger. A 2019 study found 61% of people with IBS reported lactose intolerance[1]. Almond milk contains no lactose and studies show it has a low glycemic index, making it gentler on digestion than regular milk[2].
The amount of onion and spinach typically used in Tuscan chicken recipes is reduced, as both vegetables are high in FODMAPs. A 2016 study found a low FODMAP diet significantly improved IBS symptoms in 75% of participants within 2 weeks[3]. By using fewer of these triggers, the recipe aims to avoid uncomfortable symptoms.
Serving over rice, quinoa or zucchini noodles helps keep the carb source low FODMAP. Excess high-FODMAP carbohydrates can cause gas, bloating, and abdominal pain in IBS. Research indicates that properly managing carbohydrate type and amount can optimize symptoms[4].
Olive oil is the principal fat used for cooking. It contains oleic acid which has potent anti-inflammatory effects shown to help restore gut barrier function in preclinical models of IBS[5]. Almond milk also supplies beneficial fats and vitamins for gastrointestinal health.
Overall, this Creamy Tuscan Chicken recipe for IBS thoughtfully considers the unique digestive challenges associated with irritable bowel syndrome. By reducing common trigger ingredients like onions and dairy while retaining the signature flavors of Tuscan cuisine, it offers a satisfying yet gentle version of this classic dish.
The result is a rich and indulgent meal that delivers the same coziness and comfort as the traditional recipe but with ingredients chosen and prepared in a way that aims to avoid aggravating stomach discomfort or upsetting for those managing their IBS. With this adaptation, people can once again enjoy the warmth of a creamy Tuscan skillet on nights when they crave familiar flavors and textures.
The Carnivore Diet For IBS Relief
Following an all-meat carnivore diet has shown potential benefits for managing IBS symptoms like abdominal pain and bloating. By eliminating plants and focusing on easily digestible animal proteins, the gut lining is given a chance to heal. Read more about how the carnivore diet works and whether it may help your sensitive GI symptoms here.
More Chicken Recipes for IBS
If you enjoyed this Creamy Tuscan Chicken recipe for IBS, check out other poultry dishes tailored for sensitive stomachs. Baked chicken tends to be gentle and satisfying. Browse recipes like Lemon Roasted Chicken & Chicken Noodle Soup for easy, gut-friendly meals.
Other Recipes for IBS
From Southwestern Salad to Smoothies, find more recipe ideas aimed at minimizing abdominal discomfort. Small diet tweaks can make a big difference. Browse additional recipes to gain more control over your digestive health through whole foods prepared specifically for your individual IBS need here.
Recipe Sources
I’d like to extend my thanks to the original recipe developers who inspired this IBS-friendly adaptation:
To Lisa Bryan of Downshiftology – her Creamy Tuscan Chicken recipe served as the base for this version. Lisa’s recipes are known for being healthy, easy to follow, and full of flavor. Her photography and instructions were invaluable in developing this meal.
To the Delish Test Kitchen team – their classic Creamy Tuscan Chicken recipe helped ensure the flavors were authentically Italian. Their tips on cooking chicken and assembling the dish guided my preparations.
Adapting beloved recipes takes a community. I’m grateful to these creators for sharing their recipes openly so home cooks like myself can build upon them. My hope this Creamy Tuscan Chicken recipe for IBS allows more people to enjoy the richness and comfort of Tuscan cuisine. Thank you for your contributions to the culinary world.