Tuscan Chicken
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Tuscan chicken, a dish that brings the essence of Italy right to your kitchen. With juicy chicken breasts simmered in a luscious sauce of sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and spices, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of fresh ingredients and simple preparation makes it a favorite for both novice and experienced cooks. Let’s dive into this delicious culinary adventure!
Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
– Fresh basil for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is about 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 chicken breast with sauce) contains approximately 450 calories, 22g of fat, 32g of protein, and 5g of carbohydrates. This is based on a standard serving size for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
6. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
7. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and heavy cream, mixing well.
8. Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
9. Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes.
10. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Additionally, use kale instead of spinach for a different texture and flavor. Sun-dried tomatoes can be replaced with roasted red peppers for a milder taste.
Serving and Pairings
Tuscan chicken pairs beautifully with pasta or rice to soak up the delicious sauce. Serve it alongside a fresh garden salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. A glass of white wine complements the flavors perfectly.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat until heated through. This dish can also be frozen, but it’s best to freeze the chicken separately from the sauce for optimal quality.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcooking the chicken to prevent dryness.
– Don’t skip the seasoning; it enhances the flavor.
– Use fresh ingredients for the best taste.
– Ensure the skillet is hot before adding chicken to achieve a good sear.
– Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
Helpful Tips
– Marinate the chicken for extra flavor.
– Add grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce for richness.
– Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary.
– Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F/75°C).
FAQs
Can I make Tuscan chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance. Cook it fully, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently before serving.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Tuscan chicken is great for meal prepping. Portion it into containers with your choice of sides for easy lunches or dinners.
What can I serve with Tuscan chicken?
Tuscan chicken pairs well with pasta, rice, or quinoa. A fresh salad or steamed vegetables also make excellent accompaniments.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but ensure it is fully thawed before cooking for even cooking and safety.
How spicy is Tuscan chicken?
Tuscan chicken is not inherently spicy. However, you can add red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of heat.
Conclusion
Tuscan chicken is a delightful dish that combines simple ingredients for a rich, satisfying meal. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends with its authentic Italian flavors. Enjoy the vibrant taste of Tuscany right in your home!
Tuscan Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Add chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and heavy cream.
- Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
- Return chicken to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
