Name: Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: Serves approximately four people
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1½ pounds thinly sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup chicken broth; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ cup grated parmesan cheese; 1 cup chopped spinach; ½ cup drained julienned sun-dried tomatoes

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Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Italy right to your kitchen. This meal is not only quick and easy, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, but it also impresses with its rich, creamy garlic sauce paired with vibrant spinach and sun-dried tomatoes. In just 30 minutes, you can create a restaurant-quality dish that’s sure to please your family and friends on any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking, this dish is ready in under half an hour.
Rich Flavors: The combination of garlic, cream, and Italian seasoning creates a flavorful sauce that elevates the chicken.
Versatile Dish: Perfect for serving over pasta, rice, or even alongside crusty bread for dipping.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein from chicken and nutrient-rich spinach, it’s a wholesome option for dinner.
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy this deliciously creamy meal!

Tools and Preparation

To make Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken efficiently, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Kitchen Tools

Large skillet
Whisk
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons
Cooking tongs

Why These Tools Matter

Large skillet: Provides ample space for cooking the chicken evenly while allowing room for the sauce to thicken.
Whisk: Ensures smooth incorporation of ingredients when combining the cream and broth without lumps.
Cooking tongs: Makes flipping the chicken easy and safe without risking burns.

Ingredients

Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken features a blend of simple yet flavorful ingredients that come together beautifully.

For the Chicken

2 tablespoons olive oil
1½ pounds thinly sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts

For the Sauce

1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ cup grated parmesan cheese

For the Vegetables

1 cup chopped spinach
½ cup drained julienned sun dried tomatoes

How to Make Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, cook the 1½ pounds of thinly sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add 1 cup of heavy cream, ½ cup of chicken broth, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and ½ cup of grated parmesan cheese. Whisk these ingredients together over medium-high heat until the mixture begins to thicken; this should take about 4-5 minutes.

Step 3: Add Spinach and Tomatoes

Next, stir in 1 cup of chopped spinach and ½ cup of drained julienned sun-dried tomatoes into the sauce. Continue to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the spinach starts to wilt.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, ensuring it is heated through in the creamy sauce. Serve hot over pasta if desired or enjoy it on its own for a low-carb option.

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken

Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken is a versatile dish that can be paired with various sides to enhance its flavors. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Pasta

Spaghetti or Fettuccine: Toss the creamy sauce with your choice of pasta for a hearty meal.
Zoodles (Zucchini Noodles): For a lighter option, serve over zoodles for a healthy twist.

Rice

White or Brown Rice: The creamy sauce complements the simplicity of rice perfectly, making it a filling side.
Risotto: A creamy mushroom or garlic risotto pairs beautifully with the Tuscan flavors.

Bread

Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side to soak up the delicious sauce.
Crusty Baguette: A slice of fresh baguette is perfect for dipping into the rich sauce.

Salads

Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds freshness and crunch that balances the creaminess of the chicken.
Spinach Salad: Tossed with nuts and a light vinaigrette, this salad complements the dish well.

How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken

To achieve restaurant-quality Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken, consider these helpful tips. Each step will help enhance flavor and presentation.

Bold seasoning: Ensure your chicken is well-seasoned before cooking to maximize flavor.
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes significantly improve taste.
Control heat: Cook on medium-high heat to achieve a nice sear on the chicken without overcooking it.
Whisk thoroughly: When combining the sauce ingredients, whisk well to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth texture.
Garnish with herbs: Add fresh basil or parsley on top before serving for added color and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken

Complementing your Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken with delicious side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic pair wonderfully with the rich sauce.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and health benefits alongside your main dish.
Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus provides a crisp contrast to the creamy chicken.
Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad adds texture and nutty flavors that balance the dish’s richness.
Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for a vibrant side.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn offers a delightful pop of sweetness alongside savory flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken, it’s essential to steer clear of common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always use salt, pepper, and spices to enhance taste.
Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry and tough. Aim for an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit for juicy results.
Not whisking the sauce: If you don’t whisk the sauce while it thickens, it may clump or scorch. Stir continuously to achieve a smooth consistency.
Using low-quality ingredients: Poor quality cream or cheese can ruin your sauce. Choose fresh, high-quality products for the best flavor.
Neglecting to wilt spinach: Adding spinach without wilting it first can result in a rubbery texture. Always cook spinach until just wilted for optimal results.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken

Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 2 months.
Portion out servings for easy thawing later.

Reheating Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals on medium power, stirring in between until hot.
Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken?

Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken is a delicious dish featuring tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich cream sauce with spinach and sun-dried tomatoes.

How can I customize Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken?

You can customize this recipe by adding different vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers or using herbs like basil or oregano for added flavor.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream and skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

What should I serve with Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken?

This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Conclusion

Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken is an irresistible meal that’s not only quick and simple but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or sides, making it perfect for any dinner table. Give it a try today!