Creamy Tuscan Chicken – Indulge in the richness of flavors with our Creamy Tuscan Chicken recipe. This dish is a culinary masterpiece that combines tender chicken breasts, fragrant sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy Parmesan sauce. With its irresistible aroma and delightful taste, this recipe is sure to captivate your senses and become a favorite in your kitchen.
In our household, Creamy Tuscan Chicken has become a treasured gem that brings our family together. I still remember the first time I prepared this dish for my husband, and the look on his face when he took his first bite. The combination of juicy chicken, the tanginess of sun-dried tomatoes, and the velvety cream sauce left him speechless. Since then, it has become a regular request at our dinner table, a comforting and satisfying meal that we all eagerly anticipate.
Why This Recipe is Irresistible: Savor the unique blend of flavors in our Creamy Tuscan Chicken:
- Succulent chicken breasts seasoned with a delightful mix of paprika, onion powder, salt, and cracked black pepper.
- The richness of sun-dried tomatoes infusing every bite, adding a burst of tanginess.
- A creamy sauce made with heavy cream (or a lighter option of evaporated milk) that coats the chicken, bringing all the flavors together.
- A generous handful of fresh spinach that adds a vibrant touch and enhances the dish’s nutritional value.
- The finishing touch of grated Parmesan cheese, adding a creamy and savory note. Prepare to be enchanted by this dish that combines indulgence and comfort in every mouthful.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds (700 grams) large boneless and skinless chicken breasts, halved horizontally to make 4 fillets
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to your tastes)
- 3/4 teaspoon black cracked pepper (adjust to your tastes)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder
- 3 tablespoons reserved sun-dried tomato oil or olive oil, divided
For The Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic (approximately 6 cloves)
- 5 oz. (150g) jarred sun-dried tomato strips in oil, drained (reserve 3 tablespoons of oil for cooking)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 1/2 cups heavy or thickened cream (or evaporated milk for a lower calorie/fat option)
- 3 cups spinach
- 1/2 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley (to serve)
Directions:
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and onion powder.
Heat 2 tablespoons of the reserved sun-dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side, or until golden and cooked through. If needed, work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a warm plate and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining oil and fry the minced garlic until fragrant, approximately 30 seconds to 1 minute. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and fry for an additional 1-2 minutes to release their flavors. Stir in the Dijon mustard, ensuring it is well mixed with the flavors.
Reduce the heat to low-medium and pour in the cream (or evaporated milk). Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the spinach leaves to the sauce and allow them to wilt. Then, add the grated Parmesan cheese and let it melt into the sauce, creating a creamy and luscious texture.
Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it with the sauce. Top with freshly chopped parsley.
Serve the Creamy Tuscan Chicken over pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables. Each mouthful will transport you to a world of flavors and comfort.
Notes:
- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding other vegetables like cherry tomatoes or mushrooms for an extra burst of freshness.
- For a healthier option, you can substitute evaporated milk for the heavy cream.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables. Choose your favorite accompaniment to make it a complete meal.
Creamy Tuscan Chicken is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience that brings joy and satisfaction to your taste buds. With its tantalizing aroma, succulent chicken, and creamy sauce infused with sun-dried tomatoes, this dish has the power to transport you to the idyllic Tuscan countryside.
Whether you’re cooking for your loved ones or looking to impress guests, Creamy Tuscan Chicken is a surefire way to make a lasting impression. The combination of flavors, from the seasoned chicken to the rich cream sauce, creates a harmony that is simply irresistible.
So why wait? Embark on a culinary adventure and bring the flavors of Tuscany to your own kitchen. Let the Creamy Tuscan Chicken recipe be your guide to creating a memorable and delicious meal that will leave everyone wanting more.
Indulge in the creamy, tangy, and utterly delightful flavors of this dish. It’s time to gather around the table, share stories, and savor each delectable bite. Enjoy the experience, create cherished memories, and let the Creamy Tuscan Chicken become a treasured recipe in your household.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use boneless and skinless chicken thighs as a substitute for chicken breasts. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly, so ensure they are cooked through before serving.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While the dish is best enjoyed immediately after preparation, you can make the sauce in advance and store it separately. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce and cook the chicken fresh for the best results.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Creamy sauces like this one may separate when frozen and thawed. We recommend enjoying this dish fresh to fully savor its flavors and textures.
Can I substitute the Parmesan cheese with another cheese?
Parmesan cheese adds a distinct nutty flavor to the dish, but you can substitute it with a similar hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano if needed.
Creamy Tuscan Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds 700 grams large boneless and skinless chicken breasts, halved horizontally to make 4 fillets
- 1 teaspoon salt adjust to your tastes
- 3/4 teaspoon black cracked pepper adjust to your tastes
- 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder
- 3 tablespoons reserved sun-dried tomato oil or olive oil divided
For The Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic approximately 6 cloves
- 5 oz. 150g jarred sun-dried tomato strips in oil, drained (reserve 3 tablespoons of oil for cooking)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 1/2 cups heavy or thickened cream or evaporated milk for a lower calorie/fat option
- 3 cups spinach
- 1/2 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley to serve
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and onion powder.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of the reserved sun-dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side, or until golden and cooked through. If needed, work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a warm plate and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining oil and fry the minced garlic until fragrant, approximately 30 seconds to 1 minute. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and fry for an additional 1-2 minutes to release their flavors. Stir in the Dijon mustard, ensuring it is well mixed with the flavors.
- Reduce the heat to low-medium and pour in the cream (or evaporated milk). Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the spinach leaves to the sauce and allow them to wilt. Then, add the grated Parmesan cheese and let it melt into the sauce, creating a creamy and luscious texture.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it with the sauce. Top with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve the Creamy Tuscan Chicken over pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables. Each mouthful will transport you to a world of flavors and comfort.
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