Baked Tuscan Chicken Recipe

There's nothing quite like the rich, creamy flavors of Baked Tuscan Chicken to bring comfort and warmth to your dinner table. With tender, juicy chicken smothered in a luscious garlic cream sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach, this dish is the perfect combination of indulgence and wholesome goodness.

I first discovered this recipe when searching for a simple yet elegant dinner idea to impress guests. Little did I know it would quickly become a household favorite. Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but it also delivers restaurant-quality flavors right from your oven.

Why You'll Love This Baked Tuscan Chicken

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to weeknight dinner! This Baked Tuscan Chicken isn't just delicious—it checks all the right boxes for a perfect meal.

First off, it's ridiculously easy to make. With just a handful of pantry staples and a few minutes of prep, you can have this dish baking away in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick yet satisfying.

Next, it's packed with flavor. The combination of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and creamy sauce creates a bold, well-balanced dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

It’s also a great low-carb option. If you're watching your carb intake, this dish pairs beautifully with cauliflower rice or roasted veggies for a satisfying meal without the guilt.

Finally, it's incredibly versatile. You can switch up the ingredients to suit your preferences—swap out the chicken for salmon, add mushrooms for an earthy depth, or throw in extra veggies to make it even heartier.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Baked Tuscan Chicken lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a key role in making this dish irresistibly delicious.

Let's talk about the chicken first. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe as they absorb all the flavors of the sauce while staying juicy and tender. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer a richer taste.

Next, we have the sun-dried tomatoes. These little gems add a tangy, slightly sweet burst of flavor that complements the creamy sauce perfectly. Be sure to use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, as they are softer and more flavorful than the dry variety.

The creamy sauce is the heart of this dish. Made with heavy cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, it creates a velvety texture that coats the chicken beautifully. If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or even coconut milk.

To add freshness and color, baby spinach is stirred into the sauce at the end. It wilts beautifully and adds a hint of earthiness that balances the richness of the dish.

You'll also need some Italian seasoning, butter, and chicken broth to round out the flavors and keep everything perfectly seasoned and moist while baking.

How To Make This Baked Tuscan Chicken

Creating this mouthwatering Baked Tuscan Chicken is easier than you think. Let’s break it down step by step.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and lightly greasing a baking dish. This ensures that the chicken doesn’t stick and helps with even cooking.

Season your chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This simple step lays the foundation for all the delicious flavors to come.

In a large oven-safe skillet, sear the chicken in butter over medium-high heat until golden brown on both sides. This locks in moisture and gives the chicken a beautifully caramelized crust. Remove it from the skillet and set aside.

Next, in the same skillet, sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes until fragrant. This step enhances their natural flavors and infuses the oil with garlicky goodness.

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Let it simmer for a few minutes before adding Parmesan cheese and spinach. Stir until the cheese melts and the spinach wilts into the sauce.

Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over each piece. Then, transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Once done, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. The sauce will thicken slightly, making it even more luscious and flavorful.

Storage Options

Got leftovers? No problem! This Baked Tuscan Chicken stores beautifully for easy meals throughout the week.

To refrigerate, place the cooled chicken and sauce in an airtight container and store for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm it gently over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed.

For longer storage, you can freeze the dish. Transfer the cooled chicken and sauce into a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily you can tweak it to suit your taste. Here are a few fun ways to switch it up:

• Swap the protein: Not a fan of chicken? Try this recipe with salmon, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute coconut milk for the cream and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.
• Add mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms add an earthy, umami depth that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
• Use kale instead of spinach: If you prefer a heartier green, kale works just as well—just give it a few extra minutes to soften.
• Spice it up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.

No matter how you customize it, this Baked Tuscan Chicken is sure to be a winner at your table. Try it tonight and let the flavors transport you straight to Tuscany!

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