Creamy Tuscan Chicken
This Creamy Tuscan Chicken is a rich and savory dish featuring tender chicken breasts in a luxurious creamy sauce, filled with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. Perfect for an elegant dinner yet simple enough for a weeknight meal, this recipe will surely impress.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 1/2 lbs)
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons light olive oil, divided
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 8 ounces brown mushrooms, thickly sliced
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained and chopped
- 1/4 cup green onion, green parts, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, finely shredded
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
Instructions:
Preheat Pan:
- In a large non-reactive skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the butter over medium heat.
Prepare and Cook Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Cook Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Sauté the mushrooms for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
- Add the sun-dried tomatoes, green onion, and minced garlic. Cook for another minute until the garlic is fragrant.
Make the Creamy Sauce:
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Bring the mixture to a light boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 2 minutes until the sauce thickens. Season with the remaining salt and pepper.
Combine and Serve:
- Add the spinach to the sauce and cook until wilted.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it with the sauce. Let it warm through for a minute before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Main Course: Pair with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Side Dish: Serve alongside steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad.
Cooking Tips:
- Uniform Thickness: Butterfly the chicken breasts for even cooking.
- Cheese Variety: Mix Parmesan with mozzarella for extra creaminess.
- Herb Topping: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for added flavor.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Chicken: High in protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Spinach: Rich in iron and vitamins A and C.
- Mushrooms: Provide antioxidants and B vitamins.
Dietary Information:
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
- Low-Carb: Suitable for a low-carb diet.
- Keto-Friendly: High in healthy fats and low in carbs.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, ideal for busy evenings.
- Rich and Flavorful: A creamy, cheesy sauce with garlic and sun-dried tomatoes.
- Versatile: Perfect for both casual meals and special occasions.
Conclusion:
Creamy Tuscan Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a luscious, flavorful sauce. Whether you serve it as a main course or pair it with your favorite sides, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the rich, creamy flavors of this easy-to-make Tuscan classic.