Creamy Tuscan Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of Italian cuisine. With succulent chicken breasts simmered in a luscious cream sauce, paired with vibrant spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, this recipe is perfect for those seeking a hearty meal with a touch of elegance.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a fantastic option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The combination of creamy, savory, and slightly tangy elements creates a dish that pleases the palate. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients from the spinach and tomatoes, ensuring that you’re not only indulging but also nourishing your body.

How to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Ingredients:

4 chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes
2 cups spinach
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese for serving

Directions:

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Add chicken to the skillet and sear until golden brown on both sides, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
Stir in chicken broth and scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
Add heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a simmer.
Add spinach and cook until wilted.
Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese.

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Creamy Tuscan Chicken pairs beautifully with a side of pasta, rice, or garlic bread to soak up the delectable sauce. You can also serve it alongside a fresh green salad for a complete meal. Garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate the dish, making it visually appealing and even more flavorful.

How to Store

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it has thickened. It can also be reheated in the microwave, covered, in short intervals until heated through.

Tips to Make

Make sure to use thick-cut chicken breasts for even cooking.
Don’t skip the step of searing the chicken; this adds a layer of flavor to the dish.
Adjust the amount of garlic and Italian seasoning according to your taste preferences.
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.

Variation

To customize this dish, consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. You can also substitute the chicken with shrimp or a meat alternative to make the dish suitable for different dietary preferences. Experimenting with different herbs, such as basil or oregano, can offer new flavor dimensions as well.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and just reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Simply cook the chicken fresh before serving for the best texture.

2. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative, although this may slightly alter the flavor and creaminess.

3. Can I freeze Creamy Tuscan Chicken?
While it’s not recommended to freeze the dish with the cream sauce, you can freeze the cooked chicken separately. Reheating and adding fresh cream or making the sauce fresh while reheating will provide the best results.