Tuscan Chicken in Parmesan Cream Sauce

Introduction

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a luxurious dish that brings a taste of Tuscany to your table. This Tuscan Chicken in Parmesan Cream Sauce combines succulent chicken with a rich and creamy Parmesan sauce, highlighted by fresh herbs and sun-dried tomatoes.

Ingredients

Chicken Breasts: 800 grams

Olive Oil: 30 ml

Garlic: 10 grams, minced

Sun-Dried Tomatoes: 100 grams, chopped

Chicken Broth: 250 ml

Heavy Cream: 200 ml

Parmesan Cheese: 100 grams, grated

Fresh Spinach: 100 grams

Italian Seasoning: 5 grams

Salt: 5 grams

Black Pepper: 3 grams

Fresh Basil: 10 grams, chopped

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Yield: 4 servings

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

2. Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove chicken and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.

5. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Let it reduce slightly before adding heavy cream.

6. Gradually mix in Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens.

7. Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted.

8. Return chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over the top. Allow to simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes.

9. Garnish with freshly chopped basil before serving.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

2. Cook the Chicken

Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove chicken and set aside.

3. Sauté Garlic

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.

5. Simmer with Chicken Broth

Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Let it reduce slightly before adding heavy cream.

6. Create the Sauce

Gradually mix in grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens.

7. Incorporate Spinach

Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted.

8. Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over the top. Allow to simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes.

9. Garnish and Serve

Garnish with freshly chopped basil before serving.

Notes

Serving Suggestion

Serve the Tuscan chicken over a bed of pasta or alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Recipe Variations

You can add other vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition. Adjust the seasoning to your preference.

For a Lighter Version

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce with fewer calories.

Storage Instructions

To store leftovers, allow the Tuscan Chicken to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it; the dish will last in the freezer for about 3 months. When reheating, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and gently reheat in a skillet over low heat to maintain the creaminess of the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

This Tuscan Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. For a complete meal, serve it over a bed of pasta, such as fettuccine or penne, or alongside creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting option. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast. To enhance the Italian theme, consider a glass of Chardonnay or a light Pinot Grigio to complement the rich flavors of the dish.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of Tuscan Chicken in Parmesan Cream Sauce contains approximately:
– Calories: 490
– Protein: 42g
– Carbohydrates: 10g
– Fat: 32g
– Saturated Fat: 18g
– Cholesterol: 150mg
– Sodium: 800mg
Keep in mind that the exact nutritional content may vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to modify the recipe, here are some substitutions you can consider:
– Chicken Breasts: Chicken thighs can be used for a richer flavor.
– Olive Oil: Butter or avocado oil can be a suitable alternative for sautéing.
– Heavy Cream: Half-and-half or coconut cream can replace heavy cream for a lighter or dairy-free option.
– Parmesan Cheese: Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano can be used as substitutes for Parmesan.
– Spinach: Kale or Swiss chard works well in place of spinach if preferred.
– Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes or roasted red peppers can be used for a different flavor profile.
Adjust seasonings to taste for any substitutions to ensure your dish remains flavorful.

Cook Techniques

Pan-Seering

Pan-searing the chicken breasts helps to develop a golden brown crust while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken to achieve the desired sear.

Deglazing

After cooking the chicken, deglazing the skillet with chicken broth helps incorporate the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom, enhancing the overall taste of the sauce.

Simmering

Simmering the broth and cream mixture allows flavors to meld together while reducing the sauce to a richer consistency. It’s vital to keep an eye on the simmering process to avoid boiling.

Stirring for Emulsification

Gradually mixing in Parmesan cheese while stirring continuously ensures that the cheese melts evenly, creating a smooth and creamy sauce without lumps.

Finishing with Fresh Greens

Adding fresh spinach towards the end of cooking ensures that it retains its vibrant color and nutrients while wilting perfectly into the creamy sauce.

Garnishing

Garnishing with freshly chopped basil not only adds aesthetic appeal but also a burst of freshness that complements the richness of the dish.

FAQ

Can I use other types of cheese instead of Parmesan?

Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a different flavor profile.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Ensure that the chicken broth and any additional ingredients you use are certified gluten-free.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can cook and store the Tuscan chicken in the sauce in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.

What can I serve with Tuscan Chicken in Parmesan Cream Sauce?

This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the garlic.

Conclusion

Tuscan Chicken in Parmesan Cream Sauce is a delightful dish that not only highlights the rich flavors of Tuscany but also creates a memorable dining experience, perfect for occasions like Valentine’s Day. With its creamy texture, vibrant ingredients, and fragrant herbs, this recipe is sure to impress your loved ones and elevate your dinner table.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

For a seafood twist, consider pairing garlic butter shrimp with fettuccine, tossed in a rich garlic-infused sauce. Add fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Caprese Salad

Serve a refreshing Caprese salad with ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze to complement the richness of the chicken.

Creamy Risotto

A creamy mushroom or asparagus risotto can serve as a perfect side dish. The creamy texture will harmonize beautifully with the Tuscan chicken.

Roasted Vegetables

Roast seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots tossed in olive oil and Italian herbs for a colorful and healthy side.

Tuscan Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Consider garlic mashed potatoes with a hint of rosemary; they can soak up the delicious Parmesan cream sauce perfectly.

Lemon Basil Pasta

A light lemon basil pasta adds brightness to the meal. The zesty flavors will balance the creaminess of the chicken dish.

Chocolate Lava Cake

End the meal on a sweet note with individual chocolate lava cakes, which provide a rich and indulgent dessert, perfect for special occasions.