Creamy Garlic Tuscan Chicken

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Description:
Creamy Garlic Tuscan Chicken is a rich and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a luscious garlic cream sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach. This easy one-pan recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner and pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Ingredients:

  • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: 4 (about 1.5 lbs / 680 g)
  • Olive oil: 2 tbsp
  • Salt: ½ tsp
  • Black pepper: ½ tsp
  • Garlic (minced): 4 cloves
  • Chicken broth: 1 cup (240 ml)
  • Heavy cream: 1 cup (240 ml)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese: ½ cup (50 g)
  • Sun-dried tomatoes (chopped): ½ cup (about 100 g)
  • Fresh spinach: 2 cups (or 1 bag)
  • Dried Italian herbs (or fresh basil): 1 tsp
  • Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the chicken:
    Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
  2. Cook the chicken:
    In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Make the sauce:
    In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Allow the broth to simmer for a couple of minutes to reduce slightly.
  4. Add cream and cheese:
    Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
  5. Incorporate tomatoes and spinach:
    Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and Italian herbs to the sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is wilted.
  6. Return the chicken:
    Place the cooked chicken back into the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to heat through and allow the flavors to meld.
  7. Serve:
    Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or a side of crusty bread.

Tips for Success:

  • Chicken alternatives: You can use chicken thighs for more flavor and tenderness. Adjust cooking time as needed.
  • Vegetable options: Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms to the sauce for added nutrition and flavor.
  • Creaminess level: For a thicker sauce, allow the cream to simmer a bit longer, or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken.

Recommendations:

  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
  • Freezing: The creamy sauce may separate when frozen, so it’s best to store the chicken and sauce separately if you plan to freeze.

Nutrition (per serving, approx. based on 4 servings):

  • Calories: 450
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg

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