This creamy Tuscan chicken recipe is a delightful blend of Italian flavors. The tender chicken breasts soaked in a rich, creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and parmesan cheese makes a perfect dish for a comforting dinner. The sun-dried tomatoes give the sauce a lovely tangy taste, and the fresh spinach adds a nice color and nutrition to the dish. The best part about this dish is that it's quick to make and requires very simple and easy-to-find ingredients.
Most of the ingredients used in this recipe are quite common and can easily be found in any supermarket. However, sun-dried tomato strips in oil might not be available in some regular groceries. It is an essential ingredient that brings in the intense, tangy flavor to the dish. If you can't find it in your local grocery store, check in a gourmet food store or buy it online. Also, if you wish to use fresh spinach instead of canned, go for it. Just ensure to clean it thoroughly before use.
Ingredients for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Recipe
chicken breasts: These are the star of the dish. They are rich in protein and when cooked properly, turn out to be extremely juicy and tender.
salt: It helps to bring out the flavours of other ingredients.
black pepper: It adds a bit of heat to the dish.
paprika: It provides a sweet-peppery flavour to the chicken.
onion powder: It gives a subtle sweetness and depth of flavour.
sun dried tomato oil: It's used to cook the chicken and the tomatoes, and adds a distinct flavor.
garlic: It adds a nice aroma and flavour to the sauce.
sun dried tomato strips in oil: They have a very concentrated flavor and add a tangy taste to the dish.
dijon mustard: It's tangy and spicy which adds a nice kick to the creamy sauce.
heavy cream: It makes the sauce rich and creamy.
spinach: It adds color, texture, and nutrition to the dish.
parmesan cheese: It melts into the sauce making it more creamy and cheesy.
parsley: It's used for garnishing and adds a fresh taste to the dish.
One reader, Gerhardine Heffner says:
This creamy Tuscan chicken recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and comforting, and the sauce is absolutely divine. The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and parmesan creates a truly indulgent dish. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a hearty, satisfying meal.
Essential Techniques for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Recipe
How to sear the chicken: Season the chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and onion powder. Heat the reserved sun-dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 6 to 8 minutes on each side, or until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a warm plate and set aside.
How to make the creamy sauce: After searing the chicken, add the remaining oil into the pan and fry the garlic until fragrant. Mix in the sun-dried tomatoes and fry for 1 to 2 minutes. Then, add the Dijon mustard. Reduce the heat to low-medium heat, add the cream, and bring to a gentle simmer while stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add in the spinach leaves and allow them to wilt in the sauce, then add the Parmesan cheese. Allow the sauce to simmer for a further minute until the cheese melts through the sauce.
How to serve: Add the chicken back into the pan, top with parsley, and serve over pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables.
How To Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken
Sun-dried tomatoes and dijon mustard give this Tuscan chicken dish a well-rounded flavor. But the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese make this a creamy treat.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1 ½lbchicken breastslarge, boneless and skinless
- 1tspsalt
- ¾tspblack pepper
- 1 ½tsppaprika
- 1 ½tsponion powder
- 3tbspsun dried tomato oilreserved, or olive oil, divided
For Sauce
- 2tbspgarlicminced
- 5ozsun dried tomato strips in oil
- 1tspdijon mustard
- 1 ½cupsheavy cream
- 3cupsspinach
- ½cupParmesan cheesefresh grated
- 2tbspparsleyFresh chopped
Instructions
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Season chicken with salt, pepper, paprika and onion powder.
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Heat reserved sun-dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Sear the chicken for 6 to 8 minutes for each side, or until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a warm plate; set aside.
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Add the remaining oil into the pan and fry the garlic until fragrant.
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Mix in the sun-dried tomatoes. Fry for 1 to 2 minutes. Add the Dijon mustard afterward.
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Reduce heat to low-medium heat, add the cream, and bring to a gentle simmer, while stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
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Add in the spinach leaves and allow to wilt in the sauce, then add in the parmesan cheese. Allow sauce to simmer for a further minute until cheese melts through the sauce.
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Add the chicken back into the pan; top with parsley and serve over pasta, rice, or steamed veg.
Nutrition
- Calories: 2625.18kcal
- Fat: 214.95g
- Saturated Fat: 94.79g
- Trans Fat: 0.66g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 83.10g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 26.21g
- Carbohydrates: 18.84g
- Fiber: 2.60g
- Sugar: 8.41g
- Protein: 154.51g
- Cholesterol: 717.48mg
- Sodium: 2459.66mg
- Calcium: 2025.98mg
- Potassium: 1582.85mg
- Iron: 6.33mg
- Vitamin A: 1565.88µg
- Vitamin C: 12.19mg
Helpful Technique for Making Creamy Tuscan Chicken
To ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit for a fully cooked chicken. This will help you avoid overcooking the chicken, which can make it dry and tough. Also, when adding the spinach to the sauce, be sure to add it in batches. This will allow it to wilt evenly and maintain its vibrant green color.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Creamy Tuscan Chicken
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, measure ingredients, and marinate meat the night before to save time during the actual cooking process.
One-pot wonders: Look for recipes that can be made in a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup and streamline the cooking process.
Batch cooking: Prepare larger quantities of certain ingredients, such as grains or proteins, to use in multiple meals throughout the week.
Kitchen organization: Keep your kitchen well-organized to easily locate ingredients and cooking tools, saving time and reducing stress during meal preparation.
Efficient multitasking: Plan your cooking process to include tasks that can be done simultaneously, such as chopping vegetables while something is simmering on the stove.
Substitute Ingredients For Creamy Tuscan Chicken Recipe
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chicken breasts – Substitute with turkey breasts: Turkey breasts can be used as a lean and flavorful alternative to chicken breasts, providing a similar texture and taste in the dish.
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heavy cream – Substitute with coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, coconut cream can be used as a substitute for heavy cream, adding a rich and creamy texture to the sauce.
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parmesan cheese – Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast can be used as a dairy-free alternative to parmesan cheese, providing a cheesy and umami flavor to the dish.
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sun dried tomato strips in oil – Substitute with cherry tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes can be used as a fresh alternative to sun dried tomato strips, adding a burst of sweet and tangy flavor to the dish.
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paprika – Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika can be used to add a deeper, smoky flavor to the dish, enhancing the overall taste profile.
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onion powder – Substitute with finely chopped shallots: Finely chopped shallots can be used as a fresh alternative to onion powder, providing a milder and sweeter onion flavor to the dish.
Best Presentation Ideas for Tuscan Chicken
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Elevate the plating: When presenting the creamy Tuscan chicken, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing plate. Use clean lines and minimalistic design to showcase the dish's vibrant colors and textures.
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Incorporate fresh herbs: Garnish the dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness. The vibrant green will contrast beautifully with the creamy sauce and rich tones of the chicken.
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Consider the plate shape and size: Opt for a large, white, round plate to allow the creamy Tuscan chicken to take center stage. The simplicity of the plate will enhance the visual impact of the dish.
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Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space to allow the creamy Tuscan chicken to stand out. Avoid overcrowding the plate with excessive elements, allowing the dish to shine.
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Focus on symmetry and balance: Arrange the components of the dish thoughtfully, ensuring a harmonious balance of colors and textures. This attention to detail will demonstrate precision and artistry in the presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Creamy Tuscan Chicken
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Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods. It typically has low sides and a long handle.
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Tongs: A kitchen utensil with two arms that are joined at one end, used for picking up and manipulating food.
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Grater: A kitchen tool with sharp-edged holes used to shred or grate foods like cheese, vegetables, or chocolate.
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Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurately measuring ingredients in cooking and baking.
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Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for whipping and mixing ingredients such as eggs, sauces, and batters.
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Spatula: A flat, flexible kitchen tool used for lifting, flipping, and spreading foods.
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Large skillet or pan: A wide, flat-bottomed cooking vessel with low sides, used for sautéing, frying, and searing.
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Cutting board: A durable board used to protect countertops and provide a stable surface for cutting and chopping ingredients.
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Knife: A sharp-edged utensil used for cutting, slicing, and chopping ingredients.
Storing and Freezing Creamy Tuscan Chicken
- To store leftover creamy tuscan chicken, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- When reheating, ensure that the chicken is heated through thoroughly to avoid any foodborne illnesses. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- If you want to freeze the creamy tuscan chicken, it's best to freeze the sauce separately from the chicken. Cook the chicken as directed, but do not add it back to the sauce. Instead, let the sauce cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- To freeze the chicken, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- When ready to enjoy the frozen creamy tuscan chicken, thaw both the sauce and chicken in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Reheat the chicken in the microwave or in the oven until warmed through, then add it to the sauce and serve.
- If you find that the sauce has separated or become grainy after freezing and reheating, you can try whisking in a small amount of heavy cream or milk to help smooth it out. However, keep in mind that the texture may not be quite as creamy as when freshly made.
How To Reheat Leftover Tuscan Chicken
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The best way to reheat leftover creamy tuscan chicken is to use the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is bubbly. This method helps to preserve the moisture and flavor of the dish, while also ensuring that the chicken is evenly heated.
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Another option is to use the microwave. Transfer the leftover creamy tuscan chicken to a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. Stir the sauce and spinach halfway through to ensure even heating. Keep in mind that microwaving may cause the sauce to separate slightly, but stirring it well should help to recombine the ingredients.
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If you prefer to reheat your creamy tuscan chicken on the stovetop, place it in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the pan. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash of heavy cream or chicken broth to thin it out. Heat until the chicken is warmed through and the sauce is simmering.
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Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken using a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure that it's safe to eat. If the chicken seems dry after reheating, you can add a bit more heavy cream or parmesan cheese to the sauce to help revive its creamy texture.
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Lastly, don't forget to garnish your reheated creamy tuscan chicken with fresh parsley before serving. This will help to brighten up the flavors and add a pop of color to the dish. Serve your reheated chicken over freshly cooked pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables for a satisfying and delicious meal.
Interesting Fact About Creamy Tuscan Chicken
The Creamy Tuscan Chicken Recipe is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich and creamy sauce. The dish features a blend of savory seasonings, including paprika and onion powder, which add depth to the flavor profile. The sun-dried tomato oil and garlic infuse the sauce with a delightful aroma, while the addition of spinach and parmesan cheese provides a burst of freshness and richness. This recipe is a perfect choice for a satisfying and indulgent meal, and it can be served over pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete dining experience.
Is This Tuscan Chicken Recipe Budget-Friendly?
The cost-effectiveness of this creamy Tuscan chicken recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of ingredients in your area. Chicken breasts and spinach are generally affordable, while sun-dried tomatoes and heavy cream can be pricier. However, the dish yields generous servings and can be paired with economical sides like rice or pasta. Considering the balance of flavors and the satisfaction it brings, I would rate this recipe an 8. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $25-$30, making it a reasonable option for a flavorful and hearty meal.
Is Creamy Tuscan Chicken Healthy or Unhealthy?
The creamy Tuscan chicken recipe, while undeniably delicious, may not be the healthiest option due to its high content of saturated fats and calories. The heavy cream and parmesan cheese contribute significantly to the dish's richness, which could be a concern for those watching their fat and calorie intake. Additionally, the recipe lacks a substantial amount of vegetables, focusing mainly on the chicken and cream sauce.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Swap the heavy cream with a lower-fat alternative, such as half-and-half or evaporated milk, to reduce the overall fat content
- Increase the amount of spinach or add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to boost the dish's nutritional value
- Use a combination of parmesan cheese and a lower-fat cheese, such as part-skim mozzarella, to maintain the flavor while cutting down on fat
- Serve the creamy Tuscan chicken with a side of whole-grain pasta or brown rice to incorporate more fiber into the meal
- Reduce the amount of oil used for searing the chicken and cooking the garlic to further decrease the fat content
Editor's Opinion on This Tuscan Chicken Recipe
The creamy Tuscan chicken recipe you've shared is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The seasoning and searing of the chicken create a rich, savory base, while the sun-dried tomato, garlic, and cream sauce adds a luxurious and indulgent touch. The addition of spinach and Parmesan cheese brings a lovely depth and balance to the dish. Overall, this recipe promises a satisfying and comforting meal that is sure to impress with its Tuscan-inspired flavors.
Why trust this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Recipe:
This creamy Tuscan chicken recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, creating a satisfying and indulgent dish. The combination of seared chicken with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and spinach in a creamy sauce is a testament to the rich and comforting Tuscan cuisine. The use of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese adds a luxurious touch, while the methodical instructions ensure a successful outcome. With its vibrant colors and enticing aroma, this recipe promises to elevate any dining experience, earning the trust of users seeking a memorable culinary experience.
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