One Pot Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach
Imagine the warmth of the Tuscan sun, the comforting embrace of Italian flavors on your palate, right in the comfort of your own home. Our one-pot creamy Tuscan chicken will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Italy with its rich medley of sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and succulent chicken, all wrapped in a creamy, savory sauce. What’s more, this dish promises a gourmet experience with minimal cleanup, making it a perfect weeknight indulgence or a centerpiece for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (alternatively, use half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed for extra flavor)
- 3 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Begin by Preparing the Chicken: Season chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. In a large pot or skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat, then add the chicken. Sear the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side or until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, careful not to burn the garlic.
- Craft the Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium and pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Stir in the heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Combine the Flavors: Add the spinach to the pot, stirring until it wilts. Return the chicken to the pot and spoon some sauce over it. Let everything cook together for a few minutes so the flavors can meld.
- Finishing Touches: Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens slightly. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
- Serve with Elegance: Divide the chicken and sauce between plates, and garnish with fresh basil leaves for an added touch of color and flavor.
Cooking Tips:
- To ensure even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before seasoning.
- For an extra touch of richness, you can add a splash of white wine with the chicken broth.
- If the sauce is too thick, add more chicken broth until you reach the desired consistency.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 400-450 kcals per serving
- Protein: Robust with about 30g per serving
- Carbs: Around 10g per serving, mostly from the sun-dried tomatoes
- Fats: Satisfyingly creamy with around 25g per serving
This one pot creamy Tuscan chicken recipe boasts not only convenience and ease of preparation, but also a luxurious escape to Italian cuisine that’s sure to impress your family and guests. With its simple steps and nutritional benefits, it’s a dish that promises enjoyment without the guilt. Share your love for Italian cooking by trying this authentic culinary creation tonight!