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Creamy Tuscan Chicken

A succulent and creamy Tuscan-style chicken dish, featuring juicy boneless, skinless chicken breasts simmered in a rich sauce infused with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, Italian herbs, and a touch of heavy cream. Presented in a stylish ceramic dish, the chicken is garnished with fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper. Bathed in warm, natural lighting from a large window, the image captures the enticing aroma and mouthwatering texture of this hearty and comforting meal, perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 30 mins
Total Time 45 mins
Cooking Method:
Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 4
Estimated Cost: $  20
Calories: 600 kcal
Best Season: Suitable throughout the year
Dietary: Chicken
Description

A luscious blend of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and aromatic herbs makes this dish a family favorite. Pair with pasta or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Ingredients
    Chicken Preparation
  • 4 pieces chicken breasts (Boneless and skinless; pounded to even thickness for better cooking.)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (To season the chicken breasts before cooking.)
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper (Freshly ground for best flavor.)
    • Creamy Sauce Ingredients
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (For sautéing the chicken and enhancing richness.)
  • 3 cloves garlic (Minced for aromatic base.)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (Creates the creamy texture of the sauce.)
  • 0.5 cup chicken broth (Adds depth to the sauce.)
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese (Grated; adds a nutty flavor to the sauce.)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (A blend of herbs for authentic Tuscan flavor.)
  • 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (Chopped; packed in oil for extra flavor.)
  • 2 cups baby spinach (Fresh; adds color and nutrition.)
Instructions
    Preparing the Chicken
  1. 1
    Season and Sear the ChickenGenerously season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the chicken and sear until golden brown on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side.
    Ensure your skillet is hot enough to get a good sear on the chicken; this locks in juices and adds a delicious crust.
    2. Creating the Sauce
  2. 2
    Sauté the AromaticsRemove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add a knob of butter and let it melt. Toss in minced garlic and diced onion, sautéing until fragrant and translucent.
    Scrape up any brown bits left by the chicken for added flavor; these are your secret weapon!
  3. 3
    Build the Creamy BasePour in chicken broth and deglaze the pan, stirring well. Lower the heat and add heavy cream, whisking until the sauce is smooth and begins to thicken.
    Keep the heat gentle to prevent the cream from curdling; patience is key here!
    4. Infusing with Flavor
  4. 4
    Add the Tuscan TouchStir in sun-dried tomatoes and a handful of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Let the cheese melt into the sauce, then toss in a handful of fresh spinach leaves, stirring until wilted.
    Sun-dried tomatoes add a sweet, tangy zing—perfect for brightening the creamy sauce.
    5. Finishing the Dish
  5. 5
    Simmer and ServeReturn the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Let it simmer gently for another 5 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
    Don’t rush this step; letting the chicken simmer in the sauce ensures it absorbs all those luscious flavors.
  6. 6
    Plate and GarnishTransfer the chicken to serving plates and generously spoon the creamy Tuscan sauce over each piece. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.
    A sprinkle of fresh herbs not only adds a pop of color but also a burst of freshness.
Note

For a touch of Mediterranean magic, use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil—drain them well, but reserve a tablespoon of the oil to enhance the sauce's richness. For a velvety texture, slowly stir in the cream after the sauce base is off the heat to prevent curdling. Don't skimp on the garlic; it balances the creaminess with its aromatic zing. Fresh spinach wilts quickly, so fold it in right before serving to maintain its vibrant color and slight crunch. Your skillet should be hot but not smoking to ensure the chicken sears beautifully, locking in its juices. Consider finishing with a squeeze of lemon for brightness and a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan for an umami punch. For a heartier dish, serve over a bed of al dente pasta or fluffy mashed potatoes. If you prefer a dairy-free version, substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and nutritional yeast for Parmesan—though the flavor profile will shift slightly, it's still deliciously indulgent.

Keywords: chicken, creamy, Tuscan, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic
Read it online: https://surefirerecipes.com/recipe/creamy-tuscan-chicken/