Description
Succulent baked Tuscan chicken breasts combine Mediterranean herbs and creamy sauce for an authentic Italian-inspired dinner. Elegant ingredients and simple preparation make this dish a delightful centerpiece you can master in less than an hour.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
- 2 tbsps olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Heat the oven to 375F (190C), preparing a culinary canvas for a delectable Tuscan-inspired chicken dish.
- Generously coat chicken breasts with a harmonious blend of garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, ensuring each piece is thoroughly seasoned.
- Warm olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat, creating a golden sear on the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side to lock in rich flavors and develop a beautiful caramelized exterior.
- Transfer chicken to a temporary plate, then utilize the same skillet to introduce sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach, sautéing until the greens become delicately wilted.
- Introduce heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to the skillet, allowing the ingredients to meld and simmer for 2-3 minutes, creating a luxurious, velvety sauce.
- Carefully nestle the seared chicken back into the skillet, lavishly coating each piece with the creamy tomato-spinach sauce.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, ensuring the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165F.
- Remove from the oven and let rest briefly before serving, presenting the chicken adorned with its rich, aromatic sauce.
Notes
- Customize seasonings by experimenting with different herb blends like herbes de Provence or za’atar for unique flavor profiles.
- Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts of uniform thickness to ensure even cooking and prevent dry spots.
- Swap heavy cream with lighter alternatives like half-and-half or coconut milk for a lower-fat version that still maintains creamy texture.
- Pat chicken dry before seasoning to help achieve a perfect golden sear and prevent steaming instead of browning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg