Creamy Tuscan Chicken Recipe

Imagine sinking your fork into tender chicken breasts smothered in a luscious, creamy sauce bursting with the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Parmesan. That’s exactly what you’ll get with this Creamy Tuscan Chicken recipe! It’s a restaurant-quality dish that you can whip up in your own kitchen in just 30 minutes. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something special without the fuss!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Chicken Breasts: The star of the show, pounded thin for quick and even cooking.
• Flour: For dredging the chicken, creating a golden crust.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken.
• Oil and Butter: For sautéing, adding richness and flavor.
• Garlic: Minced fresh garlic adds a punch of flavor to the sauce.
• Chicken Broth: Forms the base of the sauce, adding depth.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Packed with intense flavor, they’re a key component of Tuscan cuisine.
• Baby Spinach: Adds color, nutrition, and a slight earthy flavor.
• Oregano: A classic Italian herb that complements the other flavors.
• Heavy Cream: Creates the luxurious, creamy texture of the sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, umami flavor to the dish.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes for some heat.
• Herb Garden: Mix in fresh basil or thyme for added freshness.
• Mushroom Lover’s: Sauté some sliced mushrooms with the garlic.
• Protein Swap: Try it with pork chops or shrimp instead of chicken.

How to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness, season with salt and pepper, and dredge in flour.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat oil and butter in a skillet. Cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 4 minutes per side. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same pan, sauté garlic, add flour, then whisk in chicken stock and oregano. Stir in cream, Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes.

Step 4: Add Spinach and Finish

Once simmering, add spinach and cook until wilted. Return chicken to the pan, warm through, and spoon sauce over top.

How to Serve

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving:

Main Course Pairings:

• Serve over pasta, such as fettuccine or penne
• Pair with steamed rice or creamy polenta
• Offer with roasted vegetables for a low-carb option

Side Dish Ideas:

• Garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce
• A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette
• Steamed asparagus or broccoli

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

While possible, freezing may affect the texture of the cream sauce. If freezing, do so for up to 1 month and reheat gently.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to revive the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe. They may need a slightly longer cooking time, so adjust accordingly.

How can I make this dish lighter?
You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of Parmesan cheese. The sauce won’t be as rich, but it will still be delicious.

What can I substitute for sun-dried tomatoes?
If you’re not a fan of sun-dried tomatoes, you can use roasted red peppers or fresh cherry tomatoes for a different twist on the flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for dredging the chicken and thickening the sauce.

Get ready to transport your taste buds to the rolling hills of Tuscany with this Creamy Tuscan Chicken! It’s a perfect blend of comfort and sophistication that’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Don’t be surprised if your family starts requesting it weekly – it’s just that good!

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