Craving a flavorful and comforting meal that's ready in under an hour? Look no further than this Tuscan Chicken recipe! This dish captures the essence of rustic Italian cooking with its sun-drenched flavors and simple preparation. Tender chicken breasts are bathed in a rich sauce of creamy sun-dried tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and earthy spinach, all simmered to perfection in a touch of white wine. The result is a satisfying and healthy meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering. This recipe is surprisingly easy to execute, even for beginner cooks.
Forget complicated techniques and lengthy ingredient lists. This Tuscan Chicken recipe utilizes readily available ingredients to create a dish bursting with authentic Italian charm. The combination of savory chicken, sweet sun-dried tomatoes, and vibrant spinach creates a delightful balance of textures and tastes. Ready to create this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen? Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions!
Tools Needed
- Large skillet
- Sharp knife
- Instant-read thermometer
- Splatter guard
Ingredients
- Mushrooms: 8 ounces
- Garlic cloves: 3
- Sun-dried tomatoes: 1/4 cup
- Green onions
- Chicken breasts: 2 large (or 1.5 pounds)
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
- Garlic powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Unsalted butter: 1 tablespoon
- Heavy whipping cream: 1 1/2 cups
- Shredded parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup
- Fresh baby spinach leaves: 2 cups
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare and Cook Chicken
- Slice mushrooms, mince garlic, chop sun-dried tomatoes and green onions. Cut chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create cutlets of even thickness. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add seasoned chicken and saute for 3-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 2. Sauté Vegetables and Build Flavor
- Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. Add more oil to the pan, then saute mushrooms for 5-7 minutes until softened and golden. Scrape up browned bits from the pan.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes, green onions, and minced garlic to the skillet. Saute for 1 minute until fragrant. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 3. Create the Creamy Tuscan Sauce
- Stir in heavy cream and parmesan cheese. Bring to a light boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2 minutes until sauce thickens slightly. Season to taste.
- Stir in spinach until wilted. Add chicken back to the skillet and spoon sauce over cutlets.
Step 4. Combine and Serve
- Remove from heat and serve.
Read more: Sautéed White Beans with Garlic, Sage & Tomatoes: Easy Side Dish Recipe
Tips
- Use a non-reactive pan for tomato-based recipes to prevent the cream sauce from curdling.
- Thinner chicken cutlets cook faster.
- Always check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it's cooked to 165°F.
- This dish pairs well with spaghetti, mashed potatoes, or rice.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use bone-in chicken thighs instead of boneless breasts?
Yes! Bone-in thighs will add more flavor and require slightly longer cooking time. Adjust cooking time as needed, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
2. What can I substitute for sun-dried tomatoes?
Regular dried tomatoes, rehydrated in hot water, can be used. Alternatively, a jar of roasted red peppers would add a similar sweetness and color.
This Tuscan Chicken recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delicious and satisfying meal without the fuss. From weeknight dinners to special occasions, its simple elegance shines through in every bite. Enjoy the taste of Tuscany in the comfort of your own home!