Why Make This Recipe
Tuscan Chicken is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and a creamy sauce with tender chicken. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. Making this dish brings a taste of Italy to your kitchen, and it’s easy to prepare. Plus, it’s packed with ingredients like spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, offering a healthy twist to a comforting meal.
How to Make Tuscan Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- Additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for garnish
Directions
-
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
-
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and dried Italian herbs. Bring to a simmer and allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
-
Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth. Mix in the sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, cooking until the spinach has wilted.
-
Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the breasts. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring the chicken is heated through and coated with the sauce.
-
Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil before serving. Enjoy your Tuscan Chicken with a side of pasta, crusty bread, or over a bed of cooked grains for a complete meal.
How to Serve Tuscan Chicken
Serve Tuscan Chicken hot from the skillet with your choice of sides. It pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or a fresh green salad. You can also add some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce, making for a satisfying meal.
How to Store Tuscan Chicken
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dish will be best when eaten within 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave it until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to help restore the sauce’s creaminess.
Tips to Make Tuscan Chicken
- Make sure your chicken is at room temperature before cooking for even cooking.
- Do not rush the sauce; allow it to thicken properly for the best flavor.
- Feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for additional flavor and nutrition.
Variation
You can switch up the protein by using shrimp or pork instead of chicken. For a lighter version, you can use low-fat cream and top it with fresh herbs for added flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I make Tuscan Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it and add the chicken later.
2. Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
While you can freeze the cooked chicken, the sauce may separate upon thawing. It’s best to enjoy it fresh.
3. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and cornstarch as a lighter alternative to heavy cream.
