Creamy Tuscan Chicken Delight
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Ever dreamt of Tuscany? Craving a taste of Italy? Well, this creamy tuscan chicken recipe is your passport to flavour town.
Honestly, it is packed with sun-dried tomatoes and a lush, creamy sauce.
Brief Overview
This dish brings a slice of the Italian countryside right to your kitchen. It's a simple one-pan italian dinner. Think effortless elegance, no need to book a flight to Italy.
This Italian chicken recipe is easy, ready in under 40 minutes, and serves four hungry people.
Main Benefits
The spinach provides a good dose of vitamins. It's the perfect easy weeknight dinner . What makes this sun-dried tomato chicken so special? It's that delicious, rich flavour that tastes like you have been cooking all day.
A comforting Chicken with Parmesan sauce
Creamy Tuscan Chicken: Your Weeknight Italian Dream
Fancy a trip to Tuscany without the airfare? Our creamy Tuscan chicken is the answer. This isn't just another chicken breast recipes .
We are talking about a flavour explosion. This recipe brings together juicy chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a dreamy cream sauce.
This dish is all about bringing the warmth and simplicity of Italian cooking to your table. Originating from the desire to capture the essence of Tuscan flavors in a quick and accessible format, this recipe is ideal for busy families looking for a taste of the Mediterranean.
It is a simple creamy spinach chicken , ready in about 40 minutes. This serves four people generously.
One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize. If you want to get a quick italian meals , add red pepper flakes to spice things up.
Seriously, this Tuscan chicken recipe is a game changer. It is so easy and delicious that it might become your new go-to meal.
Ingredients & Equipment
Alright, let's talk ingredients for this creamy tuscan chicken recipe . We want this Italian chicken recipe to be banging! You know, a proper easy weeknight dinner .
Main Ingredients: The Tuscan Dream Team
- Chicken Breasts: 1.5 lbs (680g) , about 4. Get good quality ones; look for plump breasts with good color, not pale and sad-looking. We aim for about 6oz or 170g each, that size hits the spot.
- Olive Oil: 1 tbsp for searing and 1 tbsp for the sauce. Extra virgin is always a winner.
- Italian Seasoning: 1 tsp . It brings that je ne sais quoi .
- Garlic Powder: 1/2 tsp . Trust me, it works.
- Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup (120ml) . Low sodium is best, so you can control the salt.
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup (240ml) . Don't skimp! This is where the magic happens.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: 1/2 cup (50g) , oil-packed, drained and chopped. These are key! If they're dry-packed, rehydrate them in hot water first.
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup (50g) , grated, plus more for garnish. Get the good stuff, not the powdery green can.
- Fresh Spinach: 5 ounces (140g) , roughly chopped. Baby spinach is fine, just give it a good wash.
Seasoning Notes: From Italy with Love
Honestly, this is where you can get creative! The essential spice combination is Italian seasoning, garlic, and a touch of salt and pepper.
For flavor enhancers and aromatics , consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or a bay leaf while the sauce simmers.
Don't have Italian seasoning? A mix of dried oregano, basil, rosemary, and thyme works like a charm. Trust me, the aroma alone will make your neighbors jealous.
Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple
You really don't need much for this creamy Tuscan chicken .
- A large skillet or frying pan. Cast iron is awesome, but any large pan will do.
- Measuring cups and spoons. Gotta be precise, especially with the seasoning.
- Cutting board and a sharp knife. For chopping the garlic, tomatoes, and spinach.
You know what? This recipe is perfect when you need quick Italian meals . It is also a one-pan chicken dinner .
So grab these bits and bobs and let's make some magic happen, this sun-dried tomato chicken is really something special!
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Delight
Honestly, who doesn't love a bit of Italy on their plate? This creamy tuscan chicken recipe is pure comfort food, no passport needed.
Forget slaving away all day; we're talking a proper Italian feast in under an hour. It is an easy weeknight dinner that everyone will enjoy.
Prep Like a Pro
Before we even switch on the hob, let's get our mise en place sorted. Chop your sun-dried tomatoes (the oil-packed ones are best!), mince the garlic, and roughly chop the spinach.
Got everything ready? Great! Remember, safety first! Don't forget to wash your hands before you start.
From Skillet to Supper: A step-by-step Guide
- Season your chicken breasts (1.5 lbs) with Italian seasoning (1 tsp), garlic powder (1/2 tsp), salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil (1 tbsp) in a large skillet over medium high heat. Sear the chicken for 5- 7 minutes per side . Internal temperature must reach 165° F/ 74° C .
- Remove the chicken and set aside. Add another tbsp of olive oil. Sauté minced garlic (2 cloves) for about 30 seconds . Watch it like a hawk burnt garlic is a culinary crime!
- Pour in chicken broth (1/2 cup) and deglaze the pan, scraping up all those tasty bits.
- Stir in heavy cream (1 cup), sun-dried tomatoes (1/2 cup), and Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup). Simmer until thickened.
- Add chopped spinach (5 ounces) and cook until wilted.
- Return the chicken to the skillet. Baste with sauce.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 5 minutes . Serve immediately.
Tuscan Chicken Recipe: Pro Tips to Elevate Your Dish
Want to take your Italian chicken recipes to the next level? Pound the chicken for even cooking. Honestly, it makes a difference! And don't overcook it.
165° F/ 74° C is your magic number. The last tip: taste the sauce. Adjust the seasoning as you go.
You know you want this creamy tuscan chicken to be absolutely perfect!
Common mistakes to avoid : Burning the garlic and overcooking the chicken.
Recipe Notes for Your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Recipe
Right, so you're ready to dive into my creamy tuscan chicken recipe ? Honestly, before you get started, let's chat about a few extra bits and bobs.
These will make sure your Italian chicken recipes turn out perfectly every time. They include my top tips, serving ideas, and ways to keep things fresh.
Serving Suggestions: Plating Like a Pro
Okay, so you've got this amazing creamy Tuscan chicken bubbling away, now what? First off, presentation is key. A little bit of effort goes a long way! I like to serve mine over a bed of perfectly cooked linguine.
Twirl that pasta like you're auditioning for MasterChef! A sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a chiffonade of basil makes it look super fancy.
For sides, think simple. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness. Oh, and don't forget some crusty bread for soaking up that gorgeous sauce.
Drinks wise, a chilled Pinot Grigio is chef's kiss . If you're not a wine person, sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon works a treat.
Storage Tips: Keepin' It Fresh
So, you've managed not to eat the entire one-pan chicken dinner in one sitting? Impressive!
If you have leftovers, let the chicken with parmesan sauce cool completely. Then, pop it into an airtight container and into the fridge.
It'll keep for up to three days. Honestly, it's just as good the next day!
Freezing the sun-dried tomato chicken is an option. But, the sauce might separate a bit upon thawing. It'll still taste amazing.
Just give it a good stir when reheating. To reheat, microwave it. Or, gently warm it in a pan on the hob.
Make sure the chicken breast recipes are piping hot all the way through.
Variations: Your Chicken, Your Way
Fancy a tweak? This recipe is super adaptable.
Dietary Adaptation: For a lighter version, swap the heavy cream for half and-half. You can add a tablespoon of cornstarch to thicken it up. For gluten-free, serve over zucchini noodles or rice.
Seasonal Swaps: In the spring, try adding asparagus tips to the sauce. In autumn, butternut squash adds a lovely sweetness. Play around with different veggies!
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in a Bowl
Alright, let's talk numbers. This creamy Tuscan chicken recipe gives you protein from the chicken. The spinach offers vitamins, and the Parmesan provides calcium.
It’s a good source of energy, perfect for a busy weeknight.
Keep in mind the estimated nutritional values provided can vary slightly. It depends on the specific ingredients and brands you use.
It’s always a good idea to use nutrition trackers if you’re monitoring things closely.
So, there you have it! The easy weeknight dinner is delicious, and you now have all the tips for making it your own.
Honestly, don't be scared to experiment. Cooking should be fun, so get in the kitchen and give it a go.
I promise, you'll love it! Plus, you can also look for the best quick Italian meals and have fun with this and other chicken recipes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this creamy tuscan chicken recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! The creamy tuscan chicken recipe can be made 1-2 days in advance. The flavors actually meld together even more beautifully overnight. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
You might need to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce upon reheating.
Is there a way to make this dish healthier, like a Slimming World version of this creamy tuscan chicken recipe?
Definitely! To lighten things up, you can swap the heavy cream for a lower fat option like half and-half or even evaporated milk, but be aware that the sauce won't be quite as thick.
You could also use a lighter Parmesan cheese or even omit it altogether and increase the amount of spinach and sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and nutrients. Remember to use calorie controlled spray oil to fry your garlic and meat!
What's the best way to store leftovers of this creamy tuscan chicken?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the chicken is cooled completely before refrigerating. When reheating, you can use the microwave or gently warm it in a skillet over low heat.
Adding a splash of broth or cream can help restore the sauce's consistency, especially if it has thickened in the fridge.
I'm a bit of a clumsy cook what can I do to prevent burning the garlic when making the sauce for this creamy tuscan chicken?
Ah, burning garlic a classic kitchen woe! The trick is to keep the heat medium low and keep a close eye on it. Garlic cooks very quickly, so we're talking about 30 seconds until its fragrant. Have your chicken broth ready to pour in as soon as the garlic becomes fragrant.
It's also helpful to use minced garlic rather than larger pieces, as smaller pieces cook more evenly and are less likely to burn.
Can I freeze creamy tuscan chicken?
Freezing is possible, but the creamy sauce might change texture a bit upon thawing it can sometimes become slightly grainy. To minimize this, make sure the chicken is completely cooled before freezing, and store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. When thawing, do so in the refrigerator overnight.
When reheating, stir it frequently and consider adding a little fresh cream to revive the sauce's smooth texture.
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Delight
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 550 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 35g |
| Fiber | 10g |
