Transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed landscapes of Tuscany with our exquisite Tuscan Chicken recipe. This culinary delight combines tender chicken breasts, a savory parmesan coating, and a luscious creamy sauce infused with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a special gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the flavors of Italy right in your own kitchen!
Ingredients :
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, gently pounded to uniform thickness
- 1 teaspoon of aromatic Italian Seasoning
- Pinch of Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 4 tablespoons of versatile all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons of European-style butter, for that rich taste
- For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup of European-style butter, because there’s no such thing as too much butter!
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced to release their flavorful essence
- 8.5 ounces of sun-dried tomatoes, drained and rinsed to perfection (1 jar)
- 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour to thicken the sauce just right
- 1/2 cup of luxurious heavy cream for that creamy goodness
- 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth to elevate the flavors
- 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese for that unmistakable Italian touch
- 1 teaspoon of aromatic Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper for a hint of spice
- 1 cup of tender baby spinach, chopped to add freshness to the dish
- Optional: Chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant garnish
Directions :
- Begin by seasoning each side of the chicken breasts with the tantalizing blend of Italian Seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Next, in a shallow bowl, combine the flour and grated parmesan to create a flavorful coating. Dredge each chicken breast in this mixture, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
- Heat up a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Let it melt and sizzle, ready to embrace the chicken.
- Cook the chicken breasts in the skillet for around 4-5 minutes per side, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F and boast a beautiful golden brown color. Once cooked, set them aside, covered with foil, to keep warm.
- Now, in the same skillet over medium-high heat, add the remaining 1/4 cup of butter. Let it melt and mingle with the flavors left behind by the chicken.
- Introduce the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet, letting them dance together for 1-2 minutes until they release their irresistible aromas.
- Sprinkle in the flour and let it cook for another minute, thickening the sauce to perfection.
- Gradually whisk in the heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and black pepper, ensuring a harmonious blend of flavors.
- Add the chopped spinach and let the sauce simmer gently until it slightly thickens and the spinach wilts, infusing the dish with freshness.
- Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, coating them lovingly in the creamy sauce. Let them simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until they’re heated through and ready to be devoured.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness, if desired, and serve your Tuscan Chicken hot, ready to delight the senses.
Serving Tips:
- Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley just before serving to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness to your dish.
- Serve Tuscan Chicken alongside your favorite pasta, such as fettuccine or penne, for a hearty and satisfying meal.
- Pair with a crusty Italian bread or garlic bread to soak up every last bit of the creamy sauce.
- For a complete Tuscan-inspired feast, serve with a side of roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes.
Storage Tips:
- Store any leftover Tuscan Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To reheat, gently warm the chicken and sauce in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain moisture.
- Alternatively, microwave individual portions until heated through, making sure to stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
- While Tuscan Chicken is best enjoyed fresh, you can also freeze leftovers for longer storage. Place cooled chicken and sauce in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating using one of the methods mentioned above. Note that freezing may slightly alter the texture of the sauce, but the flavors will still be delicious