Are you ready to make a delicious Skillet Tuscan Chicken with Spinach? This one-pan dish is packed with flavor, and it’s simple to prepare. With juicy chicken, fresh spinach, and creamy sauce, you’ll want to add this recipe to your weeknight rotation. Whether you’re a busy parent or just love good food, this meal is perfect for you. Let’s dive into the ingredients and start cooking!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients Needed
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
Additional Ingredients
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
Seasoning and Garnish
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
In this dish, I use simple, fresh ingredients. The chicken breasts provide lean protein. Olive oil adds richness and flavor. Garlic brings a strong, warm taste.
Cherry tomatoes add sweetness and color. Heavy cream gives the dish a smooth, creamy base. Fresh spinach adds a pop of green and nutrients.
For seasoning, Italian herbs tie all the flavors together. Salt and pepper enhance the taste. Grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty finish. Finally, fresh basil gives a hint of freshness.
These ingredients work together to create a delicious meal. The blend of flavors makes it a favorite. Each bite is filled with taste and comfort.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Chicken
To sear chicken breasts properly, start by heating olive oil in a large skillet. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the chicken. Season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides. Place the chicken in the skillet and leave it alone for about 5-7 minutes. This helps the chicken get a nice golden color. Flip the chicken and cook for another 5-7 minutes. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Once cooked, remove the chicken and set it aside.
Making the Sauce
To make the sauce, use the same skillet where you cooked the chicken. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. Stir it often so it doesn’t burn. Next, add halved cherry tomatoes and cook them for 2-3 minutes. You want them to soften but not turn mushy. Now, pour in heavy cream and add Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes. This will help it thicken slightly. The creamy texture should be smooth and rich.
Combining Ingredients
After your sauce is ready, add the chopped spinach to the skillet. Cook it just until it wilts, which takes about 1-2 minutes. Then, return the chicken to the skillet. Make sure to coat it well with the creamy sauce. Finally, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top and let it simmer for another 2 minutes. This adds a wonderful flavor. For a touch of freshness, garnish the dish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
– To ensure tender chicken breasts, start with even thickness. You can pound them gently to achieve uniformity. This helps them cook evenly.
– When cooking, sear the chicken until golden brown. This adds flavor and keeps it juicy. Use a medium heat to avoid burning.
– For adjusting the sauce consistency, if it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water. For a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer.
Flavor Enhancements
– For herbs and spices, consider adding fresh thyme or oregano. These herbs enhance the dish’s flavor.
– Pair this dish with simple sides. A fresh salad or garlic bread works well. You can also serve it over pasta or rice for a hearty meal.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can easily change the protein in this dish. Try shrimp instead of chicken. Shrimp cooks fast and adds a nice flavor. Tofu is another great option for a plant-based meal.
If you want a dairy-free dish, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. It adds creaminess and a touch of sweetness. You can also try cashew cream for a nutty taste.
Flavor Profile Tweaks
If you like some heat, add red pepper flakes. Just a pinch can make a big difference. It gives the dish a nice kick without being too spicy.
You can also include other vegetables. Mushrooms add a rich flavor, while bell peppers add sweetness. Simply sauté them with the garlic and tomatoes. This adds more color and nutrition to your meal.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Skillet Tuscan Chicken fresh, use a tight container. Place it in the fridge right after it cools down. This helps to keep flavors intact. The dish will stay good for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it.
Reheating Instructions
When you reheat, do it slowly on low heat. This helps keep the chicken tender. You can also add a splash of cream if the sauce is too thick. For freezing, let the dish cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container. It can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
What is the best way to season chicken?
The best way to season chicken is simple. Start with salt and pepper. These two basics enhance the chicken’s natural taste. You can also use garlic powder or onion powder for depth.
For added flavor, try Italian seasoning. It combines herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme. Rub this mix all over the chicken. Let it sit for a few minutes. This helps the flavors soak in.
You can also marinate chicken in olive oil and vinegar for a few hours. This adds moisture and flavor.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Skillet Tuscan Chicken ahead of time. Start by cooking the chicken and sauce as directed. Allow it to cool completely.
Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last about three days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it gently on the stove. Add a splash of cream to keep it saucy.
Microwaving is an option, but it may dry out the chicken. Stir it well and check the temperature. It should reach 165°F before you serve it.
Is Skillet Tuscan Chicken suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Skillet Tuscan Chicken is great for meal prep. Divide it into meal-sized portions after cooking. Use small containers for easy storage.
This dish pairs well with rice or pasta, making it a complete meal. You can add veggies like broccoli or green beans for balance.
When stored correctly, it stays fresh in the fridge for three days. Reheat as needed for quick lunches or dinners. It’s a tasty way to enjoy healthy meals throughout the week.
In this blog post, we explored how to make a delicious Skillet Tuscan Chicken. We covered the main ingredients like chicken, garlic, and spinach. We went step-by-step through cooking the chicken and making the creamy sauce. You also learned tips to enhance flavor and some fun variations.
Remember, with the right methods, you can create a tasty meal that everyone will enjoy. Try different ingredients to make it your own. Enjoy your cooking journey!
