One-Pan Tuscan Chicken Is a Flavorful and Hearty Dish
When planning meals for my family or friends I like to make something that is both flavorful and quick to prepare. This One-Pan Tuscan Chicken recipe checks all the boxes. You just need to plan ahead to have all the ingredients you need. Not only does this meal come together in under 30 minutes, but it also has that hearty, comforting feel without too much effort. The combination of garlic, tomatoes, spinach, and cream creates a rich, savory sauce that feels like something you’d get at a restaurant, but it’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner. It is nice served with potatoes, rice or a pasta.
Did You Know?
Tuscan chicken, a popular dish from central Italy, showcases the rich culinary heritage of the region. Beyond its flavorful blend of garlic, tomatoes, and herbs, the dish can also promote sustainability when made with responsibly sourced chicken. Choosing locally raised or organic chicken supports ethical farming practices and reduces environmental impact. Sustainable poultry farming focuses on animal welfare, minimal antibiotic use, and lower carbon footprints, contributing to healthier ecosystems. Enjoying Tuscan chicken with conscientiously sourced ingredients not only enriches your dining experience but also supports sustainable food choices for a better planet.
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil or grapeseed oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup spinach leaves
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Heat the Oil:
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Personal Tip: Preheat the pan well to ensure a beautiful golden sear on the chicken.
Cook the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Personal Tip: Mince the garlic finely if you prefer a more intense garlic flavor, or slice thinly for a milder taste.
Add Tomatoes and Spinach:
Add cherry tomatoes and spinach. Cook until spinach is wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
Personal Tip: Stir gently to avoid squashing the tomatoes, keeping them whole adds bursts of sweetness to the dish.
Make the Creamy Sauce:
Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
Personal Tip: For a lighter option, substitute the cream with half-and-half or thickened milk for a less rich sauce.
Return Chicken to Pan:
Return chicken to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Personal Tip: Spoon the sauce over the chicken as it heats to ensure it absorbs all the flavors.
Serve:
Serve immediately and enjoy this delicious, easy-to-make Tuscan chicken dish!
Personal Tip: Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories, 420; Protein, 40g; Carbohydrates, 8g; Sugars, 3g; Total Fat, 26g; Saturated Fat, 12g; Sodium, 500mg; Fiber, 2g
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
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Chicken Selection: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for convenience and quick cooking. Buying in bulk and freezing portions can save money over time, especially when purchased on sale.
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Searing Technique: Ensure your skillet is properly preheated before adding chicken to achieve a golden brown sear. This not only enhances flavor and texture but also prevents sticking, making cleanup easier.
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Garlic Preparation: Adjust garlic intensity by slicing thinly for milder flavor or mincing finely for a stronger taste. This simple adjustment can personalize your dish to suit different preferences.
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Choosing Tomatoes: Use ripe cherry tomatoes for their sweetness and vibrant color. Buying in-season tomatoes or growing them in a home garden can save money while enhancing flavor.
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Handling Spinach: Add spinach towards the end of cooking to preserve its bright green color and nutrients. Frozen spinach is a cost-effective alternative and can be used if fresh isn't available.
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Creamy Sauce: Heavy cream adds richness to the sauce. To reduce fat content, consider substituting with half-and-half or whole milk, thickened with a bit of cornstarch if needed.
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Parmesan Cheese: Grate Parmesan cheese fresh for superior flavor and texture. Buying a block of Parmesan and grating it yourself is often more economical than pre-grated options.
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Fresh vs. Dried Herbs: Fresh basil and oregano can be substituted with dried herbs. Growing herbs at home or purchasing potted herbs ensures fresh flavors and reduces ongoing costs.
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Seasoning Balance: Taste and adjust salt and pepper towards the end of cooking to avoid over-seasoning. Kosher salt provides better control over seasoning levels.
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Leftovers Strategy: Plan to repurpose leftovers creatively. One-Pan Tuscan Chicken can be transformed into sandwiches, pasta dishes, or salads for subsequent meals, minimizing waste and stretching your food budget.
Let’s Learn About Different Cooking Oils
When it comes to choosing cooking oils, not all are created equal. Olive oil, especially extra-virgin, is celebrated for its heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. It’s perfect for sautéing, dressing salads, or drizzling over cooked dishes. Grapeseed oil is another excellent option, known for its light flavor and high smoke point, making it ideal for frying and high-heat cooking. However, when considering seed oils, it’s essential to understand their processing. Many seed oils, like canola or vegetable oil, undergo heavy processing and often contain additives or preservatives. Opt for cold-pressed or unrefined oils whenever possible, as they retain more nutrients and are free from harmful chemicals. Be mindful of the oil’s smoke point to ensure you’re using the right oil for your cooking method. Healthier choices, like olive oil and grapeseed oil, can elevate both the flavor and nutritional profile of your meals.