Why Make This Low-Carb Tuscan Chicken
Low-Carb Tuscan Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Italy straight to your dinner table without the guilt of extra carbs. This recipe is not just easy to prepare; it also combines tender, juicy chicken with vibrant vegetables, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce. The best part? It’s perfect for anyone following a low-carb diet while still being packed with flavor and nutrients. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight meal or something special for guests, this dish will impress.
How to Make Low-Carb Tuscan Chicken
Preparing Low-Carb Tuscan Chicken is a straightforward process that promises delicious results. You begin by sautéing seasoned chicken until golden brown. Adding fresh broccoli and tomatoes not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds beautiful colors and textures to the dish. Finally, the dreamy cream and cheese sauce ties it all together, creating a comforting meal that will have you coming back for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds boneless chicken breasts (chopped into 1-inch pieces)
- 1.5 teaspoons creole seasoning
- 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.75 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1.5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cups broccoli florets (from about 2 crowns, chopped into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 cup grape tomatoes
- 0.25 cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed preferred)
- 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes
- 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
- 0.5 cup half and half
- 0.25 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
- Season chicken pieces with creole seasoning, onion powder, and garlic powder. Add to the pan and sauté for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Add broccoli florets and grape tomatoes to the skillet and stir to combine. Sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes, oregano, and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low to prevent the cream from breaking. Stir in half and half, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it bubble gently for about 2 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Remove the skillet from the burner entirely. Top the entire dish evenly with shredded parmesan and mozzarella cheese. Cover with a lid or aluminum foil and let sit for 3 to 4 minutes until the cheese melts completely. If needed, return to low heat for 1 more minute. Serve immediately.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (assuming 6 servings):
- Calories: 330
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 39g
How to Serve Low-Carb Tuscan Chicken
Serve your Low-Carb Tuscan Chicken hot and bubbly right from the skillet. It pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables to keep the meal light. You can also serve it over a bed of cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for an extra low-carb option. Don’t forget some crusty bread to soak up that delicious creamy sauce!
How to Store Low-Carb Tuscan Chicken
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of half and half to keep the sauce creamy. You can also use the microwave, but be sure to cover it to prevent dryness.
Expert Tips for Perfect Low-Carb Tuscan Chicken
- Chicken Dryness: Pat your chicken dry before seasoning to enhance browning.
- Veggie Variations: If broccoli isn’t your favorite, you can swap it for spinach or asparagus.
- Herb Freshness: Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor – consider using fresh oregano or basil instead of dried.
- Cream Alternatives: For a lighter version, use coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk in place of half and half.
Delicious Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a tablespoon of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy version.
- Mushroom Lovers: Stir in some sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor boost.
- Cheesy Delight: Increase the cheese for a gooey, indulgent dish, using a mix of different cheeses like gouda or cheddar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and tenderness. Just ensure you check the internal temperature to ensure they are fully cooked.
Q2: Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Low-Carb Tuscan Chicken is great for meal prep. Just divide it into portions and store in the fridge for a quick meal throughout the week.
Q3: What can I use if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?
You can use fresh tomatoes or even omit them altogether if you prefer. Consider adding a splash of additional olive oil for flavor.
Conclusion
Low-Carb Tuscan Chicken is a fantastic recipe that brings together a wonderful mix of flavors and textures while keeping things healthy and low in carbs. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner and impressive enough for company. So, gather your ingredients and give this dish a try! You won’t regret it. Let me know how yours turns out, and happy cooking!