This Easy Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken is a rich and delicious dish. It’s made with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy sauce. Yum!
You’ll love how quick this meal comes together. I like to serve it over pasta or rice for a hearty dinner. Perfect for impressing your friends or just treating yourself! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are used for tenderness. You can swap them for chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor or if they’re on sale!
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: They add a burst of flavor. I recommend the dry-packed ones for better texture. You can use fresh tomatoes if that’s what you have; just cook them a little longer to soften them.
Heavy Cream: This is key for creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or coconut milk, although the taste will be different.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is great for color and nutrients. You can easily replace it with kale or even frozen spinach, but be sure to drain it well if using frozen.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese creates a smoother sauce. If you’re out of Parmesan, Pecorino Romano works well, though it’s saltier, so adjust your salt accordingly!
How Can I Ensure the Chicken Is Cooked Perfectly Without Drying It Out?
Cooking chicken just right is essential for juicy results. Here are some tips:
- Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken; this helps seal in moisture.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side. Don’t rush it—give it a nice golden color.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute!
Easy Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably the dry-packed variety)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but tasty enough for guests. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and 20 minutes cooking. Let’s get started!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This helps enhance the flavor of the chicken as it cooks.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. You can check for doneness with a meat thermometer (it should read 165°F or 75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté them for about 2 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant. This builds a wonderful aroma!
4. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and let them cook for about 1 minute. They will infuse the dish with more delicious flavor!
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir everything well to combine. Let this simmer gently for a few minutes to start thickening up.
6. Add Cheese and Herbs:
Now, mix in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
7. Add Spinach:
Add the fresh spinach leaves to the skillet, stirring them into the sauce. Cook until the spinach is wilted, which will take about 2 minutes.
8. Combine and Warm:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon the creamy sauce over them and let everything simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through and meld the flavors.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish your dish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve your creamy Tuscan garlic chicken hot over pasta, rice, or alongside some crusty bread for a fulfilling meal.
Enjoy your creamy, flavorful Tuscan garlic chicken! It’s sure to impress everyone!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s important to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to thaw is to place the chicken in the fridge overnight or use a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for a quicker method. Always ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half or coconut milk, though the flavor will slightly change. For a non-dairy option, coconut cream works well and adds a nice richness!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge, and when you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce and add the chicken back in to warm through. This will help keep everything delicious and fresh!
