Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings:
- Serves 4
This Creamy Tuscan Chicken is a rich and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a special dinner or a comforting meal. With tender chicken breasts, sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, this dish is both satisfying and delicious. Let’s dive into the recipe and create this delightful dish!
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
For the Creamy Tuscan Sauce:
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1/2 cup of chicken broth
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of water (optional for thickening)
- 1 cup of baby spinach
- 1/2 cup of sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil (or 1 tablespoon of fresh basil, chopped)
- 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Tuscan Sauce
- Cook the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Add Cream and Broth: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
- Add Parmesan: Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If the sauce is too thin, add the cornstarch mixture and stir until the sauce thickens.
- Add Spinach and Tomatoes: Stir in the baby spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, dried basil (or fresh basil), and red pepper flakes if using. Cook until the spinach is wilted and the sauce is heated through.
- Season: Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Combine and Serve
- Add Chicken to Sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy Tuscan sauce over the top.
- Simmer: Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Serve: Transfer the chicken and sauce to serving plates.
- Garnish: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Enjoy: Enjoy this rich and flavorful creamy Tuscan chicken!
Tips and Variations:
- Extra Flavor: Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for extra depth of flavor.
- Different Greens: Substitute or mix in other greens like kale or arugula for variety.
- Vegetarian Option: Use tofu or tempeh instead of chicken for a vegetarian version.
Nutritional Information:
This creamy Tuscan chicken is a rich and satisfying dish that provides a good balance of protein and healthy fats. The combination of cream, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes ensures a flavorful and comforting meal.
Storage and Reheating:
- Storage: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Be careful not to overcook the chicken.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Pasta: Serve over a bed of pasta for a complete meal.
- With Rice: Pair with steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a light and balanced dish.
- With Vegetables: Enjoy with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus.
This Creamy Tuscan Chicken is a wonderful way to enjoy a rich and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and vibrant vegetables creates a dish that is both satisfying and delightful. Enjoy this Tuscan chicken with family and friends. Happy cooking!
