Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Parmesan Recipe

If you love vibrant flavors and a touch of creamy indulgence, the Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Parmesan Recipe is an absolute must-try. This dish combines tender chicken breasts with a luscious sauce packed with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, bringing a taste of Tuscany right to your dinner table. It’s an impressive dish that feels elegant yet comes together with surprisingly simple ingredients and steps, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each of these ingredients plays a crucial role in creating the rich, textured, and flavorful experience this dish delivers. The balance of fresh herbs, creamy elements, and robust tomatoes work together to make every bite unforgettable.

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Lightly pounded to ensure even cooking and tenderness throughout.
• 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning: Adds that classic blend of herbs that bring the Tuscan vibe alive.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors perfectly.
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps create a crispy exterior on the chicken when combined with Parmesan.
• 3 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds savory depth and helps form a flavorful crust.
• 2 tablespoons European-style butter: Used initially to sear the chicken and start building richness.
• ¼ cup European-style butter: Added later to create a silky sauce base with those lovely browned bits.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Delivers aromatic warmth that elevates every element of the dish.
• 8.5 ounces sun-dried tomatoes, drained and rinsed: The star ingredient that gives a sweet and tangy punch.
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce perfectly without overwhelming it.
• ½ cup heavy cream: Brings a luscious, velvety texture that softens and balances the flavors.
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Provides richness and keeps everything wonderfully moist.
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Stirred into the sauce for an extra layer of cheesy goodness.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Sprinkled into the sauce for continuity of that authentic Italian flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds just the right amount of spice and complexity.
• 1 cup baby spinach, chopped: Offers freshness, color, and a healthy dose of green goodness.
• Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note at the end.

How to Make Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Parmesan Recipe

Step 1: Season and Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning each chicken breast on both sides with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This is where the base flavor begins, ensuring every bite is infused with those vibrant, herby notes.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Mix the flour with freshly grated Parmesan in a shallow bowl. Lightly dredge the chicken breasts in this mixture, which will create a beautiful golden crust once cooked—adding both texture and extra cheesy flavor.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of European-style butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once melted, carefully add the chicken breasts, cooking each side for 4 to 5 minutes until they are fully cooked and developed a gorgeous brown crust. Once done, transfer them to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.

Step 4: Build the Sauce Base

Return the skillet to the heat and add the remaining ¼ cup of butter. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up all the flavorful browned bits stuck to the pan—these are bursting with deep taste and will enrich the sauce beautifully.

Step 5: Add Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Stir in the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for 1 to 2 minutes until everything is fragrant. This step awakens the senses, layering aromatic and tangy bursts into the sauce.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce

Whisk in 1 tablespoon of flour and let it cook for about a minute. This helps thicken the sauce so it’s perfectly creamy without being too runny.

Step 7: Add Cream and Broth

Now whisk in the heavy cream, chicken broth, additional Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Stir everything together well to combine, creating a rich and flavorful sauce that will coat the chicken beautifully.

Step 8: Incorporate the Spinach

Add the chopped baby spinach and reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let the spinach wilt and the sauce thicken, blending fresh greens into the creamy tomato mixture for added color and nutrients.

Step 9: Reintroduce the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts back into the skillet and gently turn them to coat in the sauce. Let everything simmer together for 2 to 3 minutes to ensure the chicken is warmed through and all the flavors marry delightfully. Finish with a sprinkling of fresh parsley if you like.

How to Serve Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Parmesan Recipe

Garnishes

Freshly chopped parsley adds a vibrant pop of color and a subtle herbal brightness that cuts through the richness nicely. A little extra sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top can also add a touch of elegance and irresistible cheesiness before serving.

Side Dishes

This Tuscan Chicken pairs wonderfully with garlic mashed potatoes or creamy polenta, as these sides soak up that glorious sauce. Alternatively, a bed of al dente pasta or crusty artisan bread works perfectly to scoop up every last bit of the delicious sauce. Roasted vegetables or a simple arugula salad bring freshness to balance the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Plate the chicken on a rustic wooden board alongside colorful roasted peppers and cherry tomatoes for a bright Mediterranean feel. For a cozy dinner party, serve each portion in individual cast iron skillets to keep the dish warm and inviting right at the table. Adding a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a few chili flakes can give it an exciting little flair if you want to venture off the classic path.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Parmesan Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a perfect option for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce together, separated into meal-sized portions. Ensure the container is well sealed to prevent freezer burn. When frozen properly, it will maintain its flavor and texture for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the chicken and sauce on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. This method helps preserve the creamy texture of the sauce, or you can microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work brilliantly and bring a bit more juiciness and flavor. Just adjust cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

Do I need to rinse the sun-dried tomatoes?

Yes, rinsing sun-dried tomatoes helps remove extra oil if they are packed in oil. This prevents the sauce from becoming overly greasy while still delivering their rich, tangy flavor.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a little cornstarch to thicken if you want a lighter option, but heavy cream is best for that true creamy texture in this Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Parmesan Recipe.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, swap the butter for olive oil and use a dairy-free cream substitute along with a vegan Parmesan alternative. The sauce will still be delicious, although the texture and flavor will differ slightly.

What kind of wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce and tangy tomatoes beautifully without overpowering the flavors.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Parmesan Recipe that fills the kitchen with warmth and the meal with rich, inviting flavors. It’s a dish you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again, whether for a cozy family dinner or to impress dinner guests with ease. Give it a try—you might just discover a new favorite!

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