Discover a quick and flavorful Creamy Tuscan Chicken recipe with spinach and Parmesan. Perfect for a hearty dinner that combines ease and delicious taste.
Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Spinach and Parmesan is a delicious yet easy-to-make dinner option that combines a symphony of flavors in one dish. Preparing this recipe requires minimal effort, an outstanding feature that makes it ideal for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
Creamy goodness that envelops tender chicken
You need to season your chicken, sauté aromatic garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, and then finish it with creamy goodness that envelops tender chicken breasts and vibrant spinach.
Each bite invites a delightful combination of savory and creamy sensations
Each bite invites a delightful combination of savory and creamy sensations, perfectly complemented by the salty tang of Parmesan cheese. This dish looks appealing when plated and fills the home with an inviting aroma, making dinnertime feel special without any stress.
Fresh spinach adds many vitamins and minerals, including iron and vitamin K.
Beyond its delectable taste, Creamy Tuscan Chicken is a fantastic health-conscious choice for dinner. Chicken breast is a lean source of protein that aids in muscle growth and repair. At the same time, fresh spinach adds a wealth of vitamins and minerals, including iron and vitamin K. Including heart-healthy olive oil and nutrient-rich sun-dried tomatoes means indulging in a meal that nourishes your body.
Creamy Tuscan Chicken represents a wholesome and flavorful dinner option
This dish is not just about satisfying hunger; it promotes a balanced diet when paired with whole grains or a side of vegetables. Overall, Creamy Tuscan Chicken represents a wholesome and flavorful dinner option that supports wellness while delivering a restaurant-quality experience at home.
Whether you're cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress while keeping dinner uncomplicated and enjoyable!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Serving Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Chicken Breast (boneless, skinless)
- Olive Oil
- Garlic (minced)
- Sun-dried tomatoes (chopped, preferably packed in olive oil)
- Fresh Spinach (roughly chopped)
- Low-Sodium Chicken Broth
- Heavy Cream or Light Cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- Parmesan Cheese (grated, can be reduced or substituted with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option)
- Italian Seasoning (or a mix of dried basil and oregano)
- Salt and Pepper
- Red Pepper Flakes (optional for added heat)
- Fresh Basil (for garnish, optional)
Notes:
- Adjust the portion sizes based on the servings needed.
- You can modify ingredients according to dietary preferences, such as using non-dairy alternatives for cream and cheese.
- Fresh ingredients are recommended for the best flavor and nutrition.
These ingredients will help create a creamy, delicious, healthy Tuscan chicken dish!
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
- Season both sides of each chicken breast with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat the Olive Oil:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken breasts to the skillet.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and transfer it to a plate. Cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
- Sauté the Garlic:
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant, making sure not to burn it.
- Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
- Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Incorporate the Spinach:
- Gradually add the chopped spinach to the skillet, stirring until it wilts, which should take 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually add the chopped spinach to the skillet, stirring until it wilts, which should take 2-3 minutes.
- Make the Creamy Sauce:
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer.
- Allow it to simmer for about 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Stir in the heavy cream (or light cream/half-and-half) and bring it to a gentle simmer. Allow it to thicken for about 2-4 minutes.
- Add the Parmesan Cheese:
- Gradually mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Gradually mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Combine Chicken with Sauce:
- Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top to coat them.
- Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve immediately.
- This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or vegetables.
Enjoy your delicious and creamy Tuscan Chicken with Spinach and Parmesan!
Here’s a list of helpful tips and variations for making Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Spinach and Parmesan:
Helpful Tips:
- Use Chicken Thighs: For a juicier and more flavorful dish, consider using boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts.
- Ensure Even Cooking: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking to ensure they cook evenly throughout.
- Deglaze the Pan: After cooking the chicken, deglaze the skillet with a splash of wine (white or red) or additional chicken broth before adding the cream. This adds depth of flavor to the sauce.
- Fresh Spinach: Use fresh spinach for the best texture and flavor; it wilts quickly and adds vibrant color to the dish.
- Adjust Creaminess: Try using Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream mixed with broth instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning to your preference as you make the sauce, ensuring it’s perfectly flavored.
Variations:
- Add Vegetables: For extra nutrition and flavor, incorporate other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Sauté them along with the garlic.
- Pasta Option: For a heartier meal, serve the creamy Tuscan chicken over cooked pasta. Fettuccine, penne, or whole wheat pasta are great options.
- Sun-Dried Tomato Substitutes: If sun-dried tomatoes are not available, you can use roasted red peppers or fresh tomatoes for a different flavor profile.
- Dairy-Free Version: For a dairy-free option, use coconut milk or cashew cream in place of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley in addition to or instead of Italian seasoning to enhance flavor.
- Spice it Up: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick, making it more adventurous.
These tips and variations will help you customize your Creamy Tuscan Chicken to suit your taste buds and dietary needs! Enjoy your culinary adventure!
PrintElevate Dinner with Creamy Tuscan Chicken, Spinach, and Parmesan Flavors
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Spinach and Parmesan is a delicious yet easy-to-make dinner option that combines a symphony of flavors in one dish. Preparing this recipe requires minimal effort, an outstanding feature that makes it ideal for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
Ingredients
-
- Chicken Breast: 1 pound (about 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts)
-
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
-
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
-
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: ½ cup, chopped (preferably packed in olive oil)
-
- Fresh Spinach: 4 cups, roughly chopped
-
- Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: 1 cup
-
- Heavy Cream or Light Cream: ½ cup (you can use a lighter option like half-and-half for a healthier version)
-
- Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, grated (reduce or substitute with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option)
-
- Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon (or use a mix of dried basil and oregano)
-
- Salt and Pepper: to taste
-
- Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional, for added heat)
-
- Fresh Basil: for garnish (optional)
Notes:
-
- Adjust the portion sizes based on servings needed.
-
- You can modify ingredients according to dietary preferences, such as using non-dairy alternatives for cream and cheese.
-
- Fresh ingredients are recommended for the best flavor and nutrition.
These ingredients will help you create a creamy, delicious, and healthy Tuscan chicken dish!
Instructions
-
- Prepare the Chicken:
-
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
-
- Season both sides of each chicken breast with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
-
- Prepare the Chicken:
-
- Heat the Olive Oil:
-
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
-
- Heat the Olive Oil:
-
- Cook the Chicken:
-
- Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken breasts to the skillet.
-
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
-
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and transfer it to a plate. Cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
-
- Cook the Chicken:
-
- Sauté the Garlic:
-
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant, making sure not to burn it.
-
- Sauté the Garlic:
-
- Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
-
- Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
-
- Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
-
- Incorporate the Spinach:
-
- Gradually add the chopped spinach to the skillet, stirring until it wilts down, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
-
- Incorporate the Spinach:
-
- Make the Creamy Sauce:
-
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer.
-
- Allow it to simmer for about 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
-
- Stir in the heavy cream (or light cream/half-and-half) and bring it to a gentle simmer. Allow it to thicken for about 2-4 minutes.
-
- Make the Creamy Sauce:
-
- Add the Parmesan Cheese:
-
- Gradually mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce is creamy.
-
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
-
- Add the Parmesan Cheese:
-
- Combine Chicken with Sauce:
-
- Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top to coat them.
-
- Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
-
- Combine Chicken with Sauce:
-
- Serve:
-
- Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve immediately.
-
- This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or vegetables.
-
- Serve:
Enjoy your delicious and creamy Tuscan Chicken with Spinach and Parmesan!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
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