Creamy Tuscan Chicken Recipe

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken recipe combines tender, pan-seared chicken breasts with a rich, creamy sauce made with fresh spinach, earthy mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, and parmesan cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinner parties, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort. The sauce is silky and indulgent, featuring a blend of heavy cream, garlic, and savory spices, while the chicken stays juicy and tender. Serve with pasta, rice, or garlic bread for the ultimate comfort food experience. This dish is a flavorful, easy-to-make chicken recipe that everyone will love!

Ingredients:

• 2 large chicken breasts (about 1 1/2 lbs), halved
• 1 tsp fine sea salt, divided (plus more to taste)
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper, divided
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tbsp light olive oil, divided
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 8 oz brown mushrooms, thickly sliced
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil, drained and chopped
• 1/4 cup green onions (green parts only), chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 cup finely shredded parmesan cheese
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach

Instructions:

1. Cook the Chicken:
   Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season the chicken breasts with about half of the salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (to an internal temperature of 165°F). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a cutting board to cool. Slice the chicken if desired.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
   In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the sliced mushrooms. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are golden brown and most of the moisture has evaporated. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, green onions, minced garlic, the remaining salt, and black pepper. Sauté for another minute, until the garlic is fragrant.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
   Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle 1/2 cup of parmesan cheese over the mixture. Stir well and bring the sauce to a light boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
4. Finish the Dish:
   Add the fresh spinach to the skillet, stirring until just wilted. Return the sliced chicken to the pan, spoon the creamy sauce over the chicken, and remove from heat.
5. Garnish and Serve:
   Garnish with chopped chives if desired and serve warm.

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Tips:

• For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken breasts in olive oil, garlic, and herbs before cooking.
• If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with a bit of chicken broth or milk.
• To add more veggies, try adding some roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts to the sauce.

Variations and Substitutions:

• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free parmesan cheese alternative.
• Mushrooms: Feel free to use white mushrooms or portobello mushrooms instead of brown mushrooms.
• Spinach Substitute: Kale can be used in place of spinach for a heartier texture.
• Herb Options: Add fresh basil or thyme to the sauce for a different flavor profile.

FAQs:

• Can I make this dish ahead of time?
  Yes, the creamy Tuscan chicken can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
• What can I serve this with?
  Serve the creamy Tuscan chicken with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up the

delicious sauce. You can also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.

Serving Suggestions:

• With Pasta: Serve the creamy Tuscan chicken over a bed of fettuccine or penne for a comforting, hearty meal.
• With Rice: Pair with steamed white or brown rice for a simple, satisfying dish.
• On a Salad: Add sliced chicken on top of a mixed green salad for a lighter option with the creamy sauce drizzled over the top.
• With Garlic Bread: Serve alongside garlic bread to scoop up the creamy sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken recipe is a decadent, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and vibrant spinach in a rich, creamy sauce. The parmesan cheese adds a savory depth of flavor, while the sun-dried tomatoes give a touch of tanginess. This dish is perfect for a special dinner, and it’s easy enough to make on a weeknight. Whether you’re serving it for guests or enjoying it with family, it’s sure to become a favorite. The combination of creamy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors makes this a truly irresistible meal!