Tuscan Garlic Chicken with Spinach October 20, 2024 by admin

### Instructions:

#### Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
1. **Season the Chicken**: Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. **Cook the Chicken**: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

#### Step 2: Make the Garlic Cream Sauce
1. **Sauté the Garlic**: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
2. **Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach**: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1-2 minutes. Then, add the spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
3. **Create the Cream Sauce**: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the sauce to a simmer, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet. Add the dried basil, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

#### Step 3: Combine the Chicken and Sauce
1. **Add the Chicken Back**: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 3-4 minutes to ensure it’s heated through and coated with the creamy mixture.
2. **Finish with Parmesan**: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken and sauce, stirring to incorporate and allow the cheese to melt into the sauce. The sauce will become even richer and creamier with the addition of the cheese.

#### Step 4: Serve and Garnish
1. **Serve**: Plate the chicken with a generous serving of the creamy garlic spinach sauce. For extra color and freshness, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley over the top.
2. **Optional Sides**: Serve this dish with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta to make it a complete meal.

### Tips for Success:
– **Chicken Breasts**: For even cooking, try using chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier cut. They also work wonderfully in this recipe.
– **Adjust the Sauce**: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simply simmer it for an additional few minutes before serving. If you want a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
– **Customize with Extras**: Add extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini to the sauce for more texture and flavor. You can also try using fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes for a slightly different twist.
– **Make Ahead**: This dish is great for meal prep! You can make the entire recipe ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve.

### Why This Recipe Works:
– **Rich Flavor**: The combination of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese creates a sauce that’s flavorful and creamy without being too heavy.
– **Simple Ingredients**: The ingredients are basic yet come together to create a dish that feels indulgent and satisfying.
– **Healthy and Balanced**: With lean chicken, fresh spinach, and a flavorful sauce, this dish is a great way to get a healthy dose of protein and vegetables without sacrificing taste.

### Conclusion:
**Tuscan Garlic Chicken with Spinach** is a quick and easy dinner that’s packed with flavor and perfect for any night of the week. The creamy sauce, savory chicken, and fresh spinach all come together in a delicious, comforting meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this dish is both satisfying and simple to make.

Next time you’re in the mood for something rich and flavorful, give this recipe a try — it’s the perfect way to enjoy a taste of Tuscany right in your own kitchen.