Tuscan Chicken Recipe: A Flavorful Italian Delight
Tuscan chicken is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that captures the essence of Italian cuisine. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, offering a healthy and satisfying meal without sacrificing taste. It's also highly adaptable, allowing you to customize it based on your preferences and available ingredients. Let's dive into this delicious recipe!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe serves 4-6 people. Adjust quantities as needed.
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into 1-inch thick pieces for even cooking.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Yellow or white onion works well.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a vibrant flavor.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds a juicy and tangy element.
- 1 (10 oz) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry: This adds a nutritional boost and lovely green color.
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped: These bring a concentrated burst of tomato flavor.
- 1/4 cup chicken broth: Helps create a delicious sauce.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Classic Italian herb that enhances the dish.
- 1/2 tsp dried basil: Another essential Italian herb for aroma and flavor.
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a touch of heat.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Season to your preference.
- Fresh parmesan cheese, grated (for serving): Adds a salty, rich topping.
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish, optional): For an extra touch of freshness and visual appeal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Sear the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides. This step helps to develop a nice crust and flavor. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
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Build the Sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the sauce to a simmer.
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Simmer the Chicken: Return the chicken to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Tuscan chicken hot, topped with grated parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves (if using). This dish pairs perfectly with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Tips and Variations:
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to the sauce.
- Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh oregano and basil, use about 1 tablespoon of each, chopped.
- Spice it Up: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the level of spiciness.
- Make it Creamy: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer sauce.
- Use different protein: Substitute chicken with turkey, pork or even shrimp for a variation.
This Tuscan Chicken recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its simple preparation and delicious flavors make it a perfect choice for any occasion. Enjoy!
