Welcome to your guide for preparing Tuscan Chicken, an enchanting Italian dish that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Tuscany. A heartwarming and flavorful combination of chicken, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach, all married together in a creamy sauce, is sure to leave your dinner table spellbound.
This dish isn't just about its intriguing taste; it's about experiencing the simplicity of authentic Italian cuisine right in your own kitchen. Simple to prepare yet delightful in every bite, Tuscan Chicken is an absolute delight to savor and a dish you wouldn't want to miss!
Why This Recipe Works
The beauty of this Tuscan Chicken recipe lies in its simplicity and the symphony of flavors it delivers. It's a perfect balance of protein from the chicken, nutrients from the spinach, and the richness of the creamy sauce, making it not just delicious but also health-conscious. The sauce made from garlic, heavy cream, and chicken broth is where the magic happens. It's savory, slightly tangy due to sun-dried tomatoes, and so creamy that it beautifully coats each piece of chicken, making every bite a delightful experience.
Another reason you should consider making this Tuscan Chicken is its versatility. It can be served as is or over pasta, rice, or even bread. Not only does this flexibility make it a perfect choice for any meal, but it also provides an opportunity to cater to different dietary preferences without compromising on taste or satisfaction. Moreover, the ingredients are easily accessible, and the process is straightforward, making it an excellent recipe for any day of the week. Whether you're looking to introduce a new dish to your family dinner or impress your friends at a gathering, Tuscan Chicken promises a unique culinary experience that leaves everyone asking for more.
Ingredients
Chicken breasts-You'll need four boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. This lean protein is the star of the dish. If you prefer dark meat, you could also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs as a substitute.
Garlic- Garlic adds a savory depth to our Tuscan chicken. Aim for around four cloves, minced. In case fresh garlic is unavailable, you can use around 1 teaspoon of garlic powder instead.
Spinach-You'll need about 2 cups of fresh spinach. Spinach is a nutrient-rich leafy green that adds color and a slight bitterness to the dish. Frozen spinach can be used as a substitute, but be sure to thaw and drain it first to remove excess moisture.
Sun-dried tomatoes- A half cup of sun-dried tomatoes brings a concentrated, tangy tomato flavor. If sun-dried tomatoes are not available, roasted red peppers can be a good alternative.
Heavy cream- This adds a luxurious richness and creaminess to the dish. Around 1 cup should be used. If you're trying to lighten the dish, you could use half-and-half instead, but the sauce will be less rich.
Tips
- To ensure your chicken cooks evenly, try to use chicken breasts that are of similar size.
- When sautéing the garlic, be careful not to burn it as it can give a bitter taste to your dish.
- If you’re using frozen spinach, squeeze out as much water as possible to prevent the sauce from becoming too thin.
- The sun-dried tomatoes can be quite tangy, adjust the quantity according to your preference.
- Allow the dish to simmer gently after adding the cream to prevent it from curdling.
How to Serve
This Tuscan Chicken dish is a versatile recipe that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Its creamy sauce and savory ingredients make it a dish that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. For a casual weeknight meal, serve it atop a bed of steamed white or brown rice to absorb all the flavorful cream sauce.
- For a more sophisticated presentation, consider serving the Tuscan Chicken over creamy polenta or with a side of roasted potatoes and asparagus.
- For a low-carb or gluten-free alternative, cauliflower rice makes an excellent base.
- A light, crisp salad on the side can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy, rich Tuscan Chicken.
Looking for more ideas? Check out What To Serve With Tuscan Chicken for 21 delicious side dishes.
Similar Recipes
Tuscan Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add the sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, sautéing until the spinach wilts.
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the chicken.
- Simmer until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is heated through.
Nutrition
Notes
- To ensure your chicken cooks evenly, try to use chicken breasts that are of similar size.
- When sautéing the garlic, be careful not to burn it as it can give a bitter taste to your dish.
- If you’re using frozen spinach, squeeze out as much water as possible to prevent the sauce from becoming too thin.
- The sun-dried tomatoes can be quite tangy, adjust the quantity according to your preference.
- Allow the dish to simmer gently after adding the cream to prevent it from curdling.