Hey, Today, I’m excited to share with you one of my all-time favorite recipes: Tuscan Chicken Recipe through Beyond the Bayou Blog. Now, let me take you back to the first time I discovered this mouthwatering dish. It was a chilly evening, and I found myself craving something hearty and comforting. As I scrolled through my favorite recipe website, I stumbled upon a picture of Tuscan chicken that immediately caught my eye. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant colors, I knew I had to give it a try. If you are a chicken lover then you have to try Saffron Lemon Chicken and Chicken Alfredo.
I headed to the kitchen, gathered my ingredients, and followed the simple steps outlined in the recipe. As the aroma of garlic and herbs filled the air, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of anticipation. When the dish was finally ready, I took my first bite, and let me tell you, it was pure bliss, The creamy sauce coated the chicken perfectly, and every bite was fulfill with flavor.
Since then, Tuscan chicken has become a stuck in my recipe repertoire. Whether I’m cooking for friends, family, or just myself, it never fails to impress. So, if you’re looking for a delicious and comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table, give this Tuscan chicken recipe a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed. Now, let’s get cooking.
What is Tuscan Chicken?
Tuscan chicken is a flavorful dish originating from the Tuscany region of Italy. It’s known for its rich, rustic flavors and simple yet delicious preparation. Typically, Tuscan chicken features tender chicken breasts cooked in a savory sauce made with ingredients like garlic, tomatoes, herbs, and sometimes wine or broth. The sauce is often creamy and tangy, adding depth to the dish.
It’s a comforting and hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. Tuscan chicken is beloved for its robust flavors and versatility, as it can be served alongside pasta, rice, or vegetables. Its popularity lies in its ability to bring together simple, fresh ingredients to create a satisfying and memorable dining experience.
Overview: How to Make Tuscan Chicken Recipe?
To make Tuscan chicken, start by seasoning chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs like oregano and thyme. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant. Then, pour in some chicken broth or white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Add diced tomatoes (canned or fresh), sun-dried tomatoes, and chopped spinach to the skillet. Stir in heavy cream or coconut milk to create a creamy sauce. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
Return the chicken to the skillet and nestle it into the sauce. Allow it to cook for another 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has further thickened. Garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Tuscan chicken with pasta, rice, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Tuscan Chicken Recipe
Equipment
- Skillet or frying pan
- Cutting Board and Knife
- Spatula or Tongs
- Measuring utensils (cups and spoons)
- Cooking utensils (wooden spoon or silicone spatula)
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or white wine
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian herbs such as oregano, thyme, or basil
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs on both sides.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant. Then, pour in chicken broth or white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Add diced tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, and chopped spinach to the skillet. Stir in heavy cream or coconut milk to create a creamy sauce. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Simmer with Chicken: Return the chicken to the skillet and nestle it into the sauce. Allow it to simmer for another 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has further thickened.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the Tuscan chicken with fresh chopped basil or parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious meal with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
Notes
If you have extra large or super thick chicken breasts, you may need to sear them longer in step 2. You could also pound them evenly flat or butterfly each chicken breast for a faster cook time.
Nutrition
Time for the Tips!
- Use Thinly Sliced Chicken: Thinly sliced chicken breasts cook faster and more evenly, resulting in tender and juicy meat.
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the seasoning. Make sure to season the chicken well with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs for maximum flavor.
- Brown the Chicken: Searing the chicken breasts in hot oil until golden brown adds flavor and texture to the dish.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Be careful not to overcook the chicken breasts, as they can become dry. Cook just until they reach an internal temperature of 165�F (75�C).
- Add Cream or Coconut Milk: Adding heavy cream or coconut milk to the sauce creates a rich and creamy texture, balancing the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley over the finished dish for a burst of freshness and color.
- Serve Hot: Serve the Tuscan chicken hot with your choice of side dishes for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Wanna make this in the oven?
If you prefer baking the chicken breasts in the oven, you can still make Tuscan chicken, but you’ll need to prepare the sauce separately on the stovetop. Once the chicken is cooked through in the oven, you’ll then add it to a skillet with the prepared sauce before serving.
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Place them in a baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 375�F (190�C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
While the chicken is baking, make the sauce on the stovetop by combining minced garlic, diced tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, chicken broth (or white wine), and heavy cream (or coconut milk) in a skillet.
Once the chicken is done, add it to the skillet with the prepared sauce, then let it simmer together for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs and enjoy your flavorful Tuscan chicken.
What to Serve with Tuscan Chicken Recipe?
What to do with Leftover?
- Reheat and Serve: Simply reheat the leftover Tuscan chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. Serve it with your favorite side dishes for a quick and easy meal.
- Make a Pasta Dish: Chop the leftover Tuscan chicken into bite-sized pieces and toss it with cooked pasta. Add a little extra cream or broth to create a sauce, and garnish with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.
- Create a Sandwich: Slice the leftover Tuscan chicken and layer it onto crusty bread or a sandwich roll. Add some fresh spinach leaves, sliced tomatoes, and a dollop of mayonnaise or pesto for a delicious chicken sandwich.
- Add to Salads: Slice or shred the leftover Tuscan chicken and use it to top a green salad or pasta salad. It adds protein and flavor to your salad for a satisfying meal.
- Make a Wrap or Quesadilla: Fill a tortilla with leftover Tuscan chicken, shredded cheese, and your favorite toppings to make a tasty wrap or quesadilla. Grill it until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
- Freeze for Later: If you don’t plan to eat the leftovers right away, you can freeze the Tuscan chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating and serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can use chicken thighs if you prefer. They may require slightly longer cooking time due to their higher fat content.
Q: Can I make Tuscan chicken without cream?
A: Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative for a lactose-free version of Tuscan chicken.
Q: What can I use instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
A: You can substitute sun-dried tomatoes with fresh cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a similar flavor profile.