If you've been searching for an easy chicken Tuscan recipe to impress your dinner guests or simply treat your family to a taste of Italy, look no further. This delightful dish combines succulent chicken with creamy sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach for a truly comforting and flavorsome meal. Perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to more formal events, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and gourmet flavors.
Ingredients
Here's what you'll need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Optional: 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Cooking the Chicken
- Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Making the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and garlic, cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in Italian seasoning, then pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Simmer for a few minutes.
- Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Fold in spinach, cooking until just wilted.
Finishing the Dish
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the chicken to coat.
- Optional: Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top and melt under a broiler or cover until melted.
Note: This Chicken Tuscan recipe can be easily adapted for those preferring a lighter version. Simply replace the heavy cream with evaporated milk or use a dairy-free alternative for a vegan twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with pasta, like spaghetti or fettuccine.
- Serve alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
- Use as a filling for chicken panini or wraps.
🍴 Note: Don't forget to season every layer of this dish. Salt and pepper not only the chicken but also the sauce to ensure a well-rounded flavor.
Alternative Ingredients
| Ingredient | Substitution |
|---|---|
| Chicken Breasts | Chicken Thighs or Turkey Cutlets |
| Heavy Cream | Evaporated Milk or Coconut Cream for Vegan Option |
| Spinach | Kale, Swiss Chard, or Arugula |
When you've mastered this easy chicken Tuscan recipe, you'll find that the simplicity of the preparation yields an incredibly comforting and luxurious dish. Whether you're looking to indulge in a weekday meal or elevate your weekend dinner, this recipe offers a taste of Tuscany that's both accessible and delightful.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh for this recipe?
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Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Thaw it completely, squeeze out excess water before adding it to the sauce to avoid diluting the flavors.
What can I do with leftover Chicken Tuscan?
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Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days. You can serve it over pasta, stuff it into sandwiches, or use it as a filling for puff pastry for a quick appetizer.
Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?
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Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with large mushrooms or tofu for a delicious vegetarian version of Chicken Tuscan.
