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Creamy Tuscan Chicken Recipe

Cora Garcia
When I first encountered Creamy Tuscan Chicken, I felt a whirlwind of flavors beckon to my taste buds. It's one of those meals that transports you straight to a sun-drenched Italian villa, even if you're in your own kitchen.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 591 kcal

Equipment

  • Skillet

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 garlic cloves finely minced
  • 1 ½ cups halved grape tomatoes
  • 3 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
  • ½ cup heavy whipping cream
  • ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian oregano
  • Coarse kosher salt
  • Freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chopped basil
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  • Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This basic step ensures your chicken is flavorful from the inside out. Next, heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until melted.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

  • Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in your hot skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove them from the skillet and set aside. This helps keep the juices locked in.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

  • In the same skillet, lower the heat a bit and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute until the garlic is fragrant. Throw in the halved grape tomatoes next. Cook them until they start to blister and soften, around 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Add Spinach and Cream

  • Once the tomatoes have released their juices, it's time to add in the spinach. Stir it for a minute until it wilts.
  • Pour in the heavy whipping cream and add the Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce

  • Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it in the sauce. Sprinkle in the oregano, and season to taste with more salt and pepper if needed. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for a few minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld.

Step 6: Final Touches

  • Before serving, mix in the fresh basil and lemon zest, which brightens the dish and adds an aromatic finish. Serve it hot with lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

Here are some insider tips to elevate your dish:
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables enhance the overall flavor. Potent spices lose potency over time.
Don’t Rush the Cooking: Give the chicken time to sear. This step creates a beautiful crust that locks in the juices.
Adjust to Your Taste: Feel free to modify the creaminess by adding more or less cream based on your preference.
Experiment with Proteins: Although chicken is fantastic, try shrimp or tofu for a delightful twist.
Prep Ahead: This dish can be prepped ahead of time. Sear the chicken in advance and follow through with the sauce just before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 591kcalCarbohydrates: 75gProtein: 15gFat: 31.6gSaturated Fat: 16.1gCholesterol: 53mgSodium: 445mgFiber: 5gSugar: 43gVitamin A: 187IUVitamin C: 245mgCalcium: 33mgIron: 28mg
Keyword Creamy Tuscan Chicken Recipe
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