Baked Tuscan Chicken Breasts Recipe

There's something magical about the combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and creamy Parmesan sauce in this Baked Tuscan Chicken Breasts recipe. The aroma alone will have your family racing to the dinner table, and the flavors? They’re downright irresistible.

This recipe became a staple in my home after a trip to Tuscany, where I first discovered the beauty of rustic, simple cooking. It’s quick, easy to make, and elegant enough to serve at a dinner party. Ready to fall in love with dinner all over again? Let’s dive in.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Tuscan Chicken Breasts Recipe

Get ready to add a new favorite to your weeknight rotation. This dish combines rich, comforting flavors with a hassle-free cooking process that’s sure to impress.

First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can pop this dish into the oven and let it work its magic while you handle other things.

The flavors are next-level delicious. The creamy Parmesan sauce perfectly complements the savory sun-dried tomatoes and tender chicken breasts, creating a balance that’s both hearty and fresh.

This recipe is perfect for both everyday dinners and special occasions. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting friends, the presentation and taste of this dish will leave everyone satisfied.

Finally, it’s a one-pan wonder. Everything bakes together in a single dish, making cleanup a breeze. Who doesn’t love fewer dishes to wash after a great meal?

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this dish shine.

Chicken Breasts are the star of the show. Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy preparation. For extra juiciness, consider pounding them to an even thickness before baking.

Sun-Dried Tomatoes add a burst of tangy sweetness. Look for the kind packed in oil, as they’re softer and more flavorful. Be sure to drain them before using.

Heavy Cream and Chicken Broth form the base of the luscious sauce. The combination creates a creamy texture that clings beautifully to the chicken. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half can work, though it won’t be as rich.

Parmesan Cheese brings depth and saltiness to the dish. Freshly grated Parmesan is ideal, as it melts better and provides a more robust flavor.

Spinach adds a pop of color and freshness. Baby spinach works best here, as it wilts quickly and blends seamlessly with the sauce.

You’ll also need some pantry staples like garlic, Italian seasoning, and olive oil. A casserole dish or oven-safe skillet is essential for baking everything together.

How To Make This Baked Tuscan Chicken Breasts Recipe

This recipe is straightforward and perfect for cooks of all skill levels. Here’s how to bring it together.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a baking dish or oven-safe skillet with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Season the chicken breasts on both sides with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add a drizzle of olive oil, and sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until golden. This step locks in flavor and gives the chicken a beautiful color.

In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and let them cook for another minute to release their flavor.

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add the spinach and stir until it wilts.

Nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the sauce, spooning some over the top to coat. Transfer the skillet or pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish if necessary.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The sauce will thicken slightly as it bakes, creating a rich and velvety finish.

Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve it over pasta, rice, or with a side of crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that delicious sauce.

Storage Options

This recipe is just as good the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Here’s how to store it:

For refrigeration, transfer the chicken and sauce to an airtight container and store for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing the container.

If you want to freeze it, place the cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

To reheat, warm the dish gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce. Alternatively, microwave individual portions in 30-second increments, stirring in between.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly adaptable, making it easy to suit your tastes and dietary needs.

Swap out the chicken breasts for chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat. They’re equally delicious and stay incredibly moist.

For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream in place of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

Add extra veggies like mushrooms or cherry tomatoes for more texture and flavor. Simply sauté them with the garlic before adding the liquids.

Want a spicier kick? Sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes with the Italian seasoning or add a splash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce.

If you’re low on sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers are a great substitute. They offer a similar sweetness and work beautifully in the creamy sauce.

No matter how you customize it, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. So, what are you waiting for? Get cooking!

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