Seared to perfection, the Tuscan Chicken Recipe combines tender chicken cutlets with vibrant spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, all enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, offering a delightful taste of Italy right at home. The balance of flavors and textures makes it a standout choice that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This Tuscan chicken can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Combination: The blend of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Italian seasoning creates a deliciously rich flavor profile.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and nutrients from spinach, this dish is a wholesome choice.
- Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors make this dish visually appealing, perfect for impressing guests.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making the Tuscan chicken recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A large skillet allows for even cooking of the chicken and helps build layers of flavor in the sauce.
- Whisk: A whisk is essential for smoothly combining ingredients while making the creamy sauce.
- Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for slicing chicken and chopping vegetables.
Ingredients
For this Tuscan Chicken Recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (2 large breasts)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, more to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth, or dry white wine
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1-2 cups baby spinach
- Freshly parsley, for garnish
How to Make Tuscan Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Slice the Chicken
- Cut the chicken in half lengthwise to create four thin pieces.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
- Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of each piece of chicken.
Step 3: Cook Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.
- Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet.
- Cook each side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté Onion and Garlic
- In the same pan, sauté the chopped onion until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning.
Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce
- Slowly whisk in chicken broth.
- Gradually add heavy cream and half a cup of Parmesan cheese.
- Bring to a simmer and let it cook for a few minutes until thickened.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Combine Spinach and Chicken
- Add spinach to the sauce; allow it to wilt.
- Return cooked chicken to the skillet; spoon sauce over it.
Step 7: Serve
Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or basil if desired.
With this delicious Tuscan Chicken Recipe, you can bring restaurant-quality flavors into your kitchen effortlessly! Enjoy every bite!
How to Serve Tuscan Chicken Recipe
Serving Tuscan chicken can elevate your dining experience. This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and garnishes that enhance its rich flavors.
With Pasta
- Fettuccine: Toss cooked fettuccine with olive oil and parmesan for a simple yet delicious side.
- Penne Arrabbiata: This spicy pasta complements the creamy sauce of Tuscan chicken perfectly.
Over Rice
- Garlic Rice: Fluffy garlic rice absorbs the creamy sauce, making every bite delightful.
- Lemon Herb Rice: A zesty rice dish adds brightness to the meal.
Accompanied by Vegetables
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition to your plate.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus provides a crunchy contrast to the creamy chicken.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Basil Leaves: Fresh basil enhances the aromatic quality of the dish.
- Chopped Parsley: Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor when sprinkled on top before serving.
How to Perfect Tuscan Chicken Recipe
To make your Tuscan chicken truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.
- seasoning: Use ample salt and pepper to enhance the flavors of the chicken.
- Proper cooking temperature: Ensure your skillet is hot enough for a nice sear, which locks in juices.
- Quality cream: Opt for heavy cream for a rich sauce that adds depth to the dish.
- Fresh ingredients: Choose fresh spinach and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes for superior taste.
- Adjust thickness: If the sauce is too thick, add more chicken broth or cream to achieve your desired consistency.
Best Side Dishes for Tuscan Chicken Recipe
Pairing sides with your Tuscan chicken can take your meal to new heights. Here are some excellent options:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the delicious creamy sauce.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing balances the richness of the chicken.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting addition to your plate.
- Grilled Zucchini: Lightly grilled zucchini adds flavor without overpowering the main dish.
- Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with vegetables brings a nutritious element to your meal.
- Caprese Salad: Sliced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil create a fresh counterpoint to the richness of Tuscan chicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking Tuscan Chicken can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are key points to keep in mind.
- Not tenderizing the chicken: Failing to slice the chicken properly can result in uneven cooking. Always cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise for even thickness.
- Overcooking the sauce: If you cook the creamy sauce for too long, it can become too thick or curdled. Keep an eye on it and simmer just until thickened.
- Skipping seasoning: Neglecting to season at different stages may lead to bland flavors. Season your chicken and sauce as you go for a richer taste.
- Using low-quality ingredients: Choosing inferior olive oil or cheese can compromise your dish’s quality. Always opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.
- Ignoring the spinach: Adding spinach too early may cause it to wilt excessively. Incorporate it towards the end to maintain its vibrant color and nutrients.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Tuscan chicken in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Tuscan Chicken Recipe
- Place cooled Tuscan chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Tuscan Chicken Recipe
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and reheat in a covered dish for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe container, checking every minute until heated through.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of cream if needed to restore moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making this delicious Tuscan Chicken Recipe.
What makes this Tuscan Chicken Recipe unique?
This Tuscan Chicken Recipe is unique because of its rich cream sauce combined with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
Can I customize the Tuscan Chicken Recipe?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, or swap out chicken for shrimp or tofu for different variations.
How do I ensure my chicken stays juicy?
To keep your chicken juicy, make sure not to overcook it and allow it to rest after cooking before slicing.
What side dishes pair well with this recipe?
This Tuscan Chicken pairs nicely with pasta, rice, or a light salad, providing numerous options for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
The creamy Tuscan Chicken Recipe is sure to impress your family and friends with its rich flavor and comforting essence. It’s a versatile dish that allows for many customization options based on personal preference. Give it a try this week!
Tuscan Chicken Recipe
Indulge in the flavors of Italy with this Tuscan Chicken Recipe, featuring succulent chicken cutlets enveloped in a luscious creamy sauce enriched with sun-dried tomatoes and vibrant spinach. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, bringing restaurant-quality dining right to your table. With its rich flavor profile and impressive presentation, Tuscan Chicken is sure to become a family favorite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or dry white wine
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1-2 cups baby spinach
Instructions
- Slice chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create four thin pieces. Season each side with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken until golden brown and cooked through (165°F). Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, sauté onion until translucent, then add garlic and cook for an additional minute. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth followed by heavy cream and Parmesan cheese; bring to a simmer until thickened.
- Add spinach to wilt, then return chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over the top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of Tuscan Chicken (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 33g
- Saturated Fat: 19g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
