Baked Tuscan Chicken Breast is a delightful dish that brings the warm and comforting flavors of Italy right to your kitchen. This recipe features tender chicken breasts smothered in a creamy, flavorful sauce made with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and fragrant garlic. It’s a perfect meal for a weeknight dinner or a special weekend gathering.
Why Make This Baked Tuscan Chicken Breast
This Baked Tuscan Chicken Breast is not only delicious, but it’s also simple to prepare. The combination of rich cream, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach creates a mouthwatering sauce that pairs beautifully with the juicy chicken. It’s an elegant dish that looks impressive and tastes just as great. Plus, it can be on the table in under 30 minutes, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights.
How to Make Baked Tuscan Chicken Breast
Making this dish is straightforward and requires minimal effort. You’ll be in and out of the kitchen quickly, and the aroma wafting through your home will have everyone eagerly awaiting dinner. This recipe involves sautéing a mixture of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach, then adding heavy cream and Parmesan to create a luscious sauce. Once you bake the chicken with this sauce, you’ll have a meal that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup spinach, fresh or thawed from frozen
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant—about 1 minute.
- Toss in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, cooking until the spinach softens—around 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese, mixing until everything is well combined and creamy.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place them in a suitable baking dish.
- Pour the creamy sauce over the seasoned chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is bubbly and golden.
- For a delightful touch, serve over pasta, rice, or alongside a fresh salad.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1 chicken breast with sauce):
- Calories: 485
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Cholesterol: 155mg
- Sodium: 650mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 7g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 46g
How to Serve Baked Tuscan Chicken Breast
Serve this creamy chicken dish over a bed of your favorite pasta for a hearty meal, or alongside a simple green salad for a lighter option. You can also offer garlic bread or crusty Italian bread to soak up the delicious sauce. This dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of Chardonnay or a light red wine.
How to Store Baked Tuscan Chicken Breast
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the baked chicken in the sauce for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Expert Tips for Perfect Baked Tuscan Chicken Breast
- For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for a few hours before cooking.
- If you want a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the creamy sauce for a spicy kick.
- Always check the chicken’s internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Delicious Variations
- Swap out spinach for kale or arugula for a different flavor profile.
- Add fresh mushrooms to the skillet for an earthy touch.
- Use different types of cheese such as mozzarella or goat cheese for a unique twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe. They add a bit more flavor and remain juicy when cooked.Is it okay to use light cream instead of heavy cream?
While heavy cream gives the richest flavor and texture, you can substitute with light cream or half-and-half, though the sauce may be slightly thinner.What can I use instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
If sun-dried tomatoes aren’t available, you can use fresh cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers; just include some extra seasoning to enhance the flavor.
Conclusion
Baked Tuscan Chicken Breast is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that is perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to prepare, can be served in various ways, and provides a satisfying meal for family and friends. Don’t hesitate to give it a try—it might just become your new favorite recipe! Enjoy cooking and share your creations with friends and family; they’re sure to love it!