Oh, how I adore Creamy Tuscan Chicken! This dish has a special place in my heart, reminding me of cozy dinner nights where the aroma of garlic and herbs wafts through the house. The thought of tender chicken bathed in a rich, creamy sauce filled with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach just makes my heart sing. I remember the first time I made it; I was a little nervous. Would it turn out as delicious as I hoped? Spoiler: it did! Since then, it’s become a staple in my kitchen, not to mention a huge hit with family and friends.
The best part about this recipe is its versatility. It’s fancy enough for a dinner party but easy enough for a weeknight meal. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes! So, whether you’re trying to impress someone special or just treating yourself to some delicious comfort food, Creamy Tuscan Chicken won’t disappoint.
What’s in Creamy Tuscan Chicken?
Chicken Breasts: Juicy and tender, they serve as the perfect base for this dish. I always opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts because they cook quickly and evenly.
Olive Oil: A good-quality extra virgin olive oil adds a beautiful flavor and richness. It’s my go-to for sautéing and drizzling.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must! It brings that heavenly aroma and depth of flavor that transports me straight to Italy.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: They provide a burst of tangy sweetness and a lovely pop of color. I prefer using the ones packed in oil for a more intense flavor.
Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts down nicely in the sauce, adding both a vibrant green color and a nutritious element. You can also use frozen spinach in a pinch!
Creme Fraiche or Heavy Cream: This is where the magic happens; it creates a luscious, creamy sauce that coats everything beautifully. If you want a lighter version, Greek yogurt can also be a great substitute.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the creaminess perfectly. Freshly grated is always my recommendation!
Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs that adds that classic Italian flavor. You can also use fresh herbs if you have them on hand—nothing beats fresh basil or parsley!
Is Creamy Tuscan Chicken Good for You?
Absolutely! While this dish is rich and creamy, it also packs in plenty of nutrients thanks to the spinach and chicken.
Chicken Breasts: High in protein and low in fat, they’re a great source of lean meat, which helps keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Spinach: This leafy green is loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium. It’s a powerhouse of nutrients!
Just keep in mind that if you’re watching your calorie intake, the cream and cheese can add up. However, you can always adjust the amount of **cream** and **cheese** to suit your dietary needs.
Ingredients
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (serves 2)
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil)
– 2 cups fresh spinach
– ½ cup creme fraiche or heavy cream
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and Pepper, to taste
How to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken?
1. Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and let them cook for another minute.
4. Toss in the spinach and cook until wilted. This part always gives me a burst of joy—the vibrant colors are just so enticing!
5. Reduce the heat to low and add the cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the sauce thickens slightly, around 2-3 minutes.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the creamy sauce over it. Let everything simmer together for another minute to meld those flavors.
7. Serve hot, with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top if desired!
Serve it Up! Creative Touches
– You can serve this dish over pasta, rice, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
– Feeling a bit adventurous? Add mushrooms or bell peppers to the sauté for even more flavor and texture.
– Pair it with a crisp salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce!
I hope you give Creamy Tuscan Chicken a try! It’s one of those dishes that never fails to impress and always brings people together. If you do make it, let me know how it turned out! Happy cooking!