Seared chicken cutlets with spinach and sun-dried tomatoes simmered in a rich cream sauce give creamy Tuscan Chicken Recipe plenty of reason to be on everyone’s weekly dinner menu! This dish is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or a cozy night in. With its creamy sauce and vibrant ingredients, this recipe will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This Tuscan chicken can be ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Italian seasoning creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the dish.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein from chicken breast and essential nutrients from spinach, it’s a wholesome meal choice.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over pasta, rice, or alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Perfect for family meals or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making this flavorful Tuscan chicken recipe, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: A good-sized skillet ensures even cooking of the chicken and allows room for the sauce to simmer.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes slicing the chicken easy and safe, helping you prepare quickly.
- Whisk: Using a whisk helps create a smooth creamy sauce without lumps.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (2 large breasts)
For the Sauce
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (more to taste)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or dry white wine)
For Finishing Touches
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1-2 cups baby spinach
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Tuscan Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Slice the Chicken
Cut the chicken in half lengthwise to create four thin pieces. This allows for quicker cooking and better flavor absorption.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Sprinkle salt and pepper generously on both sides of the chicken pieces. Seasoning is key to enhancing the dish’s overall flavor.
Step 3: Cook Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces. Cook each side until golden brown, ensuring that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Once cooked through, remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté Aromatics
In the same pan used for cooking the chicken, sauté the finely chopped onion until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Then incorporate chopped sun-dried tomatoes along with Italian seasoning.
Step 5: Create Creamy Sauce
Slowly whisk in chicken broth followed by heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to taste.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Add baby spinach into the creamy sauce and allow it to wilt slightly. Return the cooked chicken back into the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over top.
Step 7: Serve Hot
Serve your Tuscan chicken hot from the skillet. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil if desired for an extra touch of freshness. Enjoy your delightful meal!
How to Serve Tuscan Chicken Recipe
Serving your Tuscan Chicken is just as important as preparing it. This dish shines with vibrant flavors and textures, making it a perfect centerpiece for any meal. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
Pair with Pasta
- Fettuccine or Linguine: Toss cooked pasta in the creamy sauce for a comforting bowl.
- Penne: Use penne for a fun twist, allowing the sauce to fill each tube.
Add a Fresh Salad
- Arugula Salad: A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette can cut through the creaminess.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella and tomatoes add brightness and balance.
Include Crusty Bread
- Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for dipping in the rich sauce.
- Ciabatta or Baguette: Perfect for sopping up every last bit of the creamy goodness.
Garnish Creatively
- Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil on top for an aromatic finish.
- Lemon Zest: A touch of lemon zest brightens up the dish beautifully.
How to Perfect Tuscan Chicken Recipe
To ensure your Tuscan Chicken turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips. These suggestions will elevate your cooking technique and enhance flavor.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh spinach and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes to maximize flavor.
- Control Heat Levels: Cook chicken over medium heat to achieve that perfect golden crust without burning.
- Let Sauce Thicken: Allow the cream sauce to simmer long enough so it thickens nicely before serving.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning as you cook for optimal flavor.
- Rest Chicken After Cooking: Let the chicken rest briefly after cooking; this keeps it juicy and tender.
- Experiment with Cheese: Try using different cheeses like Romano or Asiago for varied taste profiles.
Best Side Dishes for Tuscan Chicken Recipe
Complementing your Tuscan Chicken with the right side dishes can create a balanced meal. Here’s a selection of tasty options that pair well.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic make an excellent base for savoring the sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition to your plate.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly seasoned steamed asparagus offers a fresh contrast to the creamy chicken.
- Risotto: A rich risotto can soak up the delightful sauce, providing an indulgent side option.
- Zucchini Noodles: For a lighter option, serve zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil and garlic.
- Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers adds healthy grains to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a Tuscan chicken recipe, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken beyond 165°F can result in dry meat. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy and remove it from heat as soon as it reaches this temperature.
- Not Seasoning Properly: Skipping or skimping on salt and pepper can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to season the chicken and the sauce generously for a rich taste.
- Using Low-Quality Ingredients: The quality of your sun-dried tomatoes and cheese will affect the final dish. Opt for fresh or high-quality ingredients to enhance flavor.
- Rushing the Sauce: Allowing the creamy sauce to simmer properly is key. This step thickens the sauce and intensifies flavors, so don’t skip it or rush through.
- Ignoring Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley or basil adds brightness to your dish. Don’t forget this finishing touch; it makes a big difference in presentation and flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Tuscan chicken will last in the fridge for about 3-4 days.
Freezing Tuscan Chicken Recipe
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- It can be stored frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Tuscan Chicken Recipe
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout, about 5-10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Tuscan Chicken Recipe?
Tuscan chicken recipe features seared chicken cutlets combined with spinach and sun-dried tomatoes in a creamy sauce. It’s inspired by traditional Italian flavors.
Can I use other vegetables in my Tuscan Chicken Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini based on your preference. It’s a versatile dish!
How can I make my Tuscan Chicken Recipe healthier?
You can substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or light cream alternatives. Additionally, using less cheese can lower calories while keeping flavor intact.
What should I serve with Tuscan Chicken Recipe?
This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread. A fresh salad also complements its rich flavors beautifully.
Is this Tuscan Chicken Recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! You can prepare this dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer for easy meals throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
This creamy Tuscan chicken recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings as you like. Give this recipe a try for an impressive dinner that everyone will enjoy!
Tuscan Chicken Recipe
Indulge in a creamy Tuscan Chicken recipe that beautifully marries seared chicken cutlets with vibrant spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, all enveloped in a rich cream sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The combination of Italian seasonings, garlic, and fresh ingredients not only elevates the flavor but also makes it a wholesome meal choice that your family and guests will rave about. Serve it over pasta, rice, or alongside crusty bread to soak up every bit of the delectable sauce. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or entertaining friends, this Tuscan Chicken is sure to impress.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or dry white wine)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1–2 cups baby spinach
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Slice chicken breasts in half lengthwise and season with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Cook chicken until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove from skillet.
- Sauté chopped onion in the same skillet until translucent; add minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, cooking until fragrant.
- Whisk in chicken broth followed by heavy cream and Parmesan cheese; allow the sauce to simmer and thicken.
- Add baby spinach to the sauce until wilted, then return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over top.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 470
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
Keywords: Use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor. Adjust seasoning as needed throughout cooking. Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors.
