Transport yourself to the sun-kissed hills of Tuscany with this delectable Tuscan Chicken recipe. Bursting with the flavors of Italy, this dish features tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich, savory sauce infused with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and herbs. Serve it with pasta, rice, or crusty bread for a satisfying meal that will have you dreaming of Tuscany with every bite.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Directions:

1. Season the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides.
2. Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Allow it to cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly.
5. Add cream and herbs: Stir in the heavy cream, dried oregano, and dried thyme. Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
6. Add spinach and cheese: Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach has wilted and the cheese has melted into the sauce.
7. Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Serve hot, ideally over cooked pasta or rice.

Variations:

• Mushroom Tuscan Chicken: Add sliced mushrooms to the sauce for an earthy flavor and extra texture.
• Spicy Tuscan Chicken: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a creamy, dairy-free alternative.

Serving Tips:

• This Tuscan Chicken pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette.
• Serve with a glass of your favorite Italian wine for an authentic Tuscan experience.

Storage Tips:

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

Health Benefits and Nutritional Information:

• Chicken is a lean source of protein, while spinach provides essential vitamins and minerals.
• Sun-dried tomatoes offer antioxidants and are a good source of vitamins A and C.
• Nutritional information per serving: Calories: [insert kcal]

FAQs:

Q: Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe? A: Yes, bone-in chicken thighs or breasts can be used, but adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are cooked through.

Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes? A: While sun-dried tomatoes add a unique flavor to this dish, you can substitute with diced fresh tomatoes. Just note that the flavor profile may be slightly different.

Conclusion:

Tuscan Chicken is a taste of Italy right in your own kitchen. With its rich, flavorful sauce and tender chicken, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite and evoke memories of sunny Tuscan landscapes.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes