Creamy Tuscan Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich and flavorful sauce made of sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and herbs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know to make the best Creamy Tuscan Chicken.
Ingredients
To make this scrumptious Creamy Tuscan Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably in oil)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Tongs or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
How to Cook Creamy Tuscan Chicken
Creating this Creamy Tuscan Chicken is straightforward and requires just a few simple steps. Let’s dive into the preparation!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken
- Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Sear the Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Creamy Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Scrape the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits, which adds flavor to your sauce.
- Add Cream and Cheese
- Stir in the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Allow the mixture to simmer for about 2-3 minutes, then add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Incorporate Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
- Add the chopped spinach and sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce. Let them wilt and combine for another 2-3 minutes.
- Return Chicken to the Skillet
- Place the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken and let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm through.
- Serve and Garnish
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve hot over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.
Cooking Tips & Variations
Tips for Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: To keep your chicken tender, be sure to check the internal temperature and remove it from the heat as soon as it reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust seasoning as necessary, especially salt and pepper.
Cooking Variations
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.
- Spicy Version: For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add sliced jalapeños.
- Herb Variations: Swap out Italian seasoning for fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to customize the flavor.
Quick Creamy Tuscan Chicken
If you’re short on time, you can use thinly sliced chicken breasts or chicken cutlets. They cook faster and will still soak up all the creamy sauce goodness.
FAQs
How long does it take to cook Creamy Tuscan Chicken?
From start to finish, this Creamy Tuscan Chicken recipe takes about 30-40 minutes, making it a quick option for dinner.
What are the best tips for making Creamy Tuscan Chicken?
- Ensure you have all your ingredients prepped before starting.
- Use a good quality heavy cream for the best texture and flavor.
- Adjust the amount of garlic and cheese according to your preference for a customized taste.
Can I make Creamy Tuscan Chicken ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, store them separately in the refrigerator, and then reheat them together just before serving.
What can I serve with Creamy Tuscan Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. You can also serve it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or broth to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
Recipe Card
Creamy Tuscan Chicken
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 36g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 19g
- Cholesterol: 165mg
- Sodium: 480mg
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Season chicken with salt and pepper.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and sear chicken for 5-7 minutes per side. Set aside.
- Reduce heat, add butter, and sauté garlic.
- Add chicken broth, simmer, then stir in heavy cream and cheese.
- Incorporate spinach and sun-dried tomatoes.
- Return chicken to skillet, spoon sauce over it, and warm through.
- Garnish and serve.
This Creamy Tuscan Chicken recipe is not just delicious but also easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for any home cook. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Enjoy your cooking adventure!