Hello and welcome, food lovers! Today, we’re diving into a delightful culinary journey with a dish that’s sure to make your taste buds dance — Creamy Skillet Tuscan Chicken. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick family dinner or a cozy date night. Imagine tender chicken, creamy sauce, and rich flavors all coming together in just one skillet! If you’re a fan of comforting, rich Italian-inspired meals, this is the recipe to try. So, let’s get started!
Introduction
Creamy Skillet Tuscan Chicken is a beloved dish that takes its inspiration from the traditional flavors of Tuscan cuisine. With its rich sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh baby spinach, this dish is a delightful blend of creamy textures and robust Mediterranean flavors. It’s a comforting meal that’s easy enough to whip up on a busy weeknight but sophisticated enough to serve for guests. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this Tuscan Chicken recipe will become a go-to in your kitchen for its simplicity and flavor-packed results.
For a deeper dive into other mouthwatering recipes, check out Ultimate Cowboy Casserole Cornbread or Sausage Balls Recipe with Red Lobster Mix.
Ingredients for Creamy Skillet Tuscan Chicken
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups baby spinach leaves
- Additional grated Parmesan for serving
Optional Substitutions:
- For a dairy-free version: Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk.
- For a lower-fat option: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- For gluten-free: Ensure that the chicken broth is certified gluten-free.
How to Make Creamy Skillet Tuscan Chicken – Step by Step
Step 1: Season and Sauté the Chicken
Season the cubed chicken with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chicken and sauté until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Base of the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and butter. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Deglaze
Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes. Then, pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the heavy cream. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 3 minutes to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Add Parmesan and Spinach
Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it is fully incorporated into the sauce. Add the baby spinach and cook until the leaves wilt, about 1 to 2 minutes.
Step 6: Combine Chicken with the Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Helpful Tips for Creamy Skillet Tuscan Chicken
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best texture and flavor.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to thin it out.
- For an extra layer of flavor, use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil.
Cooking Tips for the Best Creamy Skillet Tuscan Chicken
- Use a cast-iron skillet for even heating and maximum browning on the chicken.
- Do not overcook the chicken, as it can become dry. Keep the heat at medium and monitor closely.
- Let the sauce simmer gently, allowing all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Serving Suggestions for Creamy Skillet Tuscan Chicken
This Tuscan Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes:
- Garlic mashed potatoes to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Crusty Italian bread for dipping.
- A side of roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to complement the richness of the dish.
- A glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio to balance the creamy texture.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving:
- Calories: 520
- Total Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 38g
Storage and Leftovers for Creamy Skillet Tuscan Chicken
- To Store: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- To Reheat: Warm the chicken gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to restore the sauce’s consistency.
- To Freeze: The chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months, but the texture of the sauce may change slightly due to the cream content.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Creamy Skillet Tuscan Chicken
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
2. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic for a hint of heat.
3. Can I substitute fresh tomatoes for sun-dried tomatoes?
While fresh tomatoes can be used, they will result in a lighter flavor. Sun-dried tomatoes offer a more concentrated, tangy taste that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
4. Is this dish suitable for a low-carb diet?
Absolutely! This Creamy Skillet Tuscan Chicken is naturally low in carbs, making it ideal for keto or low-carb meal plans.
Related Recipes for Tuscan Chicken Lovers:
- Baked Thin Chicken Breast
: A healthy, flavorful option that complements Tuscan flavors.
- Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Meatballs Recipe Guide
: A slow-cooked version for meatball enthusiasts.
Conclusion
And there you have it — a simple yet decadent Creamy Skillet Tuscan Chicken recipe that’s sure to impress! We hope you enjoy making and sharing this dish with your loved ones. If you try this recipe or have your own twist to add, let us know in the comments below. Happy cooking!
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Creamy Skillet Tuscan Chicken Recipe – Easy, Flavorful Dinner
Description
Hello and welcome, food lovers! Today, we’re diving into a delightful culinary journey with a dish that’s sure to make your taste buds dance — Creamy Skillet Tuscan Chicken. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick family dinner or a cozy date night. Imagine tender chicken, creamy sauce, and rich flavors all coming together in just one skillet! If you’re a fan of comforting, rich Italian-inspired meals, this is the recipe to try. So, let’s get started!
Ingredients
Step 1: Season and Sauté the Chicken
Season the cubed chicken with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chicken and sauté until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Base of the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and butter. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Deglaze
Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes. Then, pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the heavy cream. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 3 minutes to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Add Parmesan and Spinach
Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it is fully incorporated into the sauce. Add the baby spinach and cook until the leaves wilt, about 1 to 2 minutes.
Step 6: Combine Chicken with the Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Instructions
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best texture and flavor.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to thin it out.
- For an extra layer of flavor, use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil.
