Easy Baked Tuscan Chicken Recipe Ready in 30 Minutes
Imagine yourself in the sunny hills of Tuscany with this baked tuscan chicken recipe. In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a meal that tastes like it came from a restaurant. The creamy tuscan chicken combines tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich parmesan sauce for a flavor explosion.
This recipe is great for a quick dinner or a cozy meal with family. It has an average rating of 4.95 out of 5 from 1077 votes. So, put on your apron and let’s make this easy and tasty dish together.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Are you looking for a tasty one-pan chicken dinner to impress your loved ones? This baked Tuscan chicken recipe is perfect. It comes from Tuscany, Italy, and is loved for its creamy, savory taste and easy prep.
This dump and bake chicken breast recipe is easy and quick. It’s great for busy nights or when you want a delicious meal with little effort. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a delicious Italian dinner ready fast.
This recipe makes 4 servings, each full of flavor and good for you. Here’s what you get per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 364 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 9 g |
| Protein | 37 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Saturated Fat | 11 g |
| Cholesterol | 125 mg |
| Sodium | 547 mg |
| Potassium | 917 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Vitamin A | 3570 IU |
| Vitamin C | 14 mg |
| Calcium | 326 mg |
| Iron | 2 mg |
With a 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 8 reviews, this recipe is a hit. It’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Let’s explore the ingredients and steps to make this amazing one-pan chicken dinner that takes you to Tuscany!
This dump and bake chicken breast recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights. The flavors are incredible, and cleanup is a breeze!
Ingredients for Baked Tuscan Chicken
This easy Baked Tuscan Chicken recipe is a hit. It uses juicy chicken breasts seasoned with Italian seasoning, garlic, and paprika. The chicken is covered in a creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. Here’s what you need:
Chicken Breasts
The main ingredient is 1 lb (450g) of boneless skinless chicken breasts. This is about 2 chicken breasts cut in half. It’s a lean protein that makes for a healthy and tasty meal.
Seasoning Mix
To add flavor, you’ll mix together:
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
Sun-Dried Tomatoes
8 oz of sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped, add a tangy flavor. These tomatoes give the dish a Mediterranean twist.
Heavy Cream Sauce
The sauce is a mix of:
- 3 oz softened cream cheese
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
- 4 cloves minced garlic
- 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 3/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 6 oz frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
This sauce is creamy and rich. It perfectly complements the chicken and brings all the flavors together.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Boneless skinless chicken breasts | 1 lb (450g) |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tbsp |
| Heavy cream | 1/3 cup |
| Sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped | 8 oz |
| Frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry | 6 oz |
Kitchen Tools Needed
To make this tasty Baked Tuscan Chicken, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. An oven-safe skillet or a 9×13 baking dish is ideal for cooking it right. A skillet that can go from stovetop to oven saves time and makes cleaning easier.
A meat thermometer is key for cooking the chicken to 165°F. This tool makes sure your chicken is always juicy and tender.
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Tongs
Having these tools ready makes cooking this Baked Tuscan Chicken easy. With a few simple gadgets, you can make a meal like a restaurant’s at home.
A well-equipped kitchen is the foundation of any successful home-cooked meal.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Oven-safe skillet or 9×13 baking dish | Cooking vessel for the chicken and sauce |
| Meat thermometer | Ensures chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F |
| Cutting board and sharp knife | Prepping ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes and basil |
| Mixing bowls and whisk | Combining ingredients for the creamy sauce |
| Measuring cups and spoons | Accurately measuring ingredients for consistent results |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Baked Tuscan Chicken
Making this tasty baked Tuscan chicken is easy and impressive. Follow a few simple steps to get a dish that looks like it came from a restaurant.
Preheat the Oven
First, heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This helps the chicken cook evenly and get a nice golden color.
Prepare the Chicken
Season boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Make sure they’re the same thickness for even cooking. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until it’s golden.
Create the Sauce
In the same pan, cook yellow onions, garlic, and red pepper flakes until they smell good. Add white wine to the pan and let it cook down a bit. Then, mix in heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and baby spinach. Let the sauce simmer until it thickens, stirring now and then.
Add parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Bake the Chicken
Put the seared chicken breasts into the creamy sauce. Then, put the pan in the oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is 165°F (74°C) inside. Let it rest for 5 minutes before you serve it.
This recipe is quick to prepare and cooks in just 20 minutes. It’s great for a busy weeknight or when you want to wow your guests with a simple yet delicious meal.
Tips for Juicy and Flavorful Baked Tuscan Chicken
To make the most delicious baked Tuscan chicken, follow a few key tips. These simple steps will help your chicken breasts turn out juicy and flavorful every time.
Pound the Chicken for Even Cooking
Before seasoning, pound the chicken breasts with a rolling pin or meat mallet. This makes sure they cook evenly. Aim for a thickness of ¾ to 1 inch for the best results.
Use a Meat Thermometer
For perfectly cooked chicken without dryness, use a digital meat thermometer. Put the thermometer in the thickest part of the breast, avoiding the bone. The chicken is done when it hits 165°F (74°C).
Let the Chicken Rest
After the chicken is cooked, take it out of the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This step makes the meat tender and juicy. It also helps the spinach wilt slightly from the heat.
By following these tips, you can make baked Tuscan chicken just like a restaurant. Serve it with pasta or roasted veggies for a full meal.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken thighs | 4-5 (2-2 ½ pounds) |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tsp |
| Broccoli, finely chopped | 1 cup |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 3 |
| Jasmine or instant rice | 1 cup |
| Chicken broth | 2 ¼ cups |
| Sun-dried tomatoes, sliced and drained | ⅓ cup |
| Heavy cream | ½ cup |
| Parmesan cheese, shredded | ⅓ cup (plus ¼ cup for topping) |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | 1 tbsp |
Variations and Substitutions
This baked Tuscan chicken recipe is very flexible. You can make it your own by changing a few things. This way, it becomes a dish your family will love.
Using Chicken Thighs
You can swap chicken breasts for thighs for a richer taste. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are best. They might take a bit longer to cook. You’ll need about 2.2 lbs of chicken thighs for this recipe.
Cream Substitutes
Looking for lighter cream options? There are a few choices. Fat-free Greek yogurt or fat-free milk can replace heavy cream. This makes the dish lower in calories. For a dairy-free version, coconut cream and dairy-free cheese work well.
Vegetable Options
Adding more veggies is a great idea. Try fresh cherry tomatoes for color and flavor. Sliced mushrooms or artichoke hearts are also good. Spinach adds nutrients and a splash of green.
| Variation | Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Low-Carb | Omit sun-dried tomatoes (1/4 cup), add more greens | Follow recipe as directed, skipping the sun-dried tomatoes and increasing spinach or other low-carb veggies |
| Vegetarian | Substitute chicken with portobello mushrooms or eggplant | Prepare the sauce as directed, then bake the sliced mushrooms or eggplant in the sauce until tender |
| Cheesy | Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or feta (1/4 cup) | Follow recipe as directed, swapping out the parmesan for your cheese of choice |
Customizing this baked Tuscan chicken recipe makes it a hit with your family. It’s quick to prepare, with just 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a fast, delicious meal.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftover baked Tuscan chicken, you can easily store it in the refrigerator or freezer to enjoy later. To store tuscan chicken leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. This creamy chicken dish will maintain its flavor and texture when properly stored.
When you’re ready to reheat creamy chicken, you have a couple of options. For best results, reheat the chicken in a large pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Alternatively, you can use the microwave, but be sure to stir the dish every 30 seconds to prevent hot spots.
If you want to freeze baked chicken breasts for longer storage, place the leftovers in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Frozen Tuscan chicken will keep for up to six months. To reheat, thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator, then follow the reheating instructions above. Keep in mind that the cream sauce may separate slightly after freezing and reheating, but a quick stir will help restore its consistency.
| Storage Method | Storage Time | Reheating Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 4 days | Reheat in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally |
| Freezer | Up to 6 months | Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a pan or microwave |
Tip: When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to help restore the sauce’s creamy texture if needed.
By following these simple storage and reheating guidelines, you can enjoy your delicious baked Tuscan chicken leftovers for days to come, without compromising on taste or quality.
Serving Suggestions
There are many ways to serve baked Tuscan chicken. You can pair it with comforting pasta or a refreshing side dish. We have some great ideas for you.
Pasta Pairings
Pasta and Tuscan chicken are a perfect match. The creamy sauce goes well with different noodles. Here are some pasta options:
- Penne pasta
- Fettuccine noodles
- Orzo pasta
- Lemon butter orzo (ready in just 15 minutes!)
- Mediterranean pasta
For a lighter option, try zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. They let you enjoy the flavors without the extra carbs.
Side Dish Ideas
Enhance your Tuscan chicken with these side dishes. From crispy potatoes to fresh salads, they’ll make your meal better:
| Side Dish | Preparation Time | Key Ingredients |
|---|---|---|
| Garlic Bread | 10 minutes | Italian rolls, garlic, butter |
| Roasted Vegetables | 20-60 minutes | Brussels sprouts, zucchini, asparagus |
| Potato Dishes | 15-60 minutes | Potatoes, onions, butter, cream |
| Salads | 10-15 minutes | Arugula, tomatoes, Parmesan, olive oil |
A simple side salad can also balance the Tuscan chicken’s richness. Try an Italian chopped salad or a zesty leaf salad with Parmesan and olive oil.
These ideas will help you make a memorable meal. Your baked Tuscan chicken will be the star. Get creative and enjoy the praise from your guests!
Nutritional Information
Discovering the nutritional facts of tuscan chicken might surprise you. One serving of this recipe, with a chicken breast and 1/3 cup of creamy sauce, has about 378 calories. It’s not just tasty but also well-balanced, with 41g of protein, 20g of carbs, and 14g of fat.
Though it might seem high in calories, this dish uses healthy ingredients. It’s perfect for a balanced diet when eaten in moderation. The recipe makes 6 servings, with each valued at 5 WW Points. It’s ideal for those on the Weight Watchers program.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 378 |
| Protein | 41g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sugar | 8g |
| Sodium | 441mg |
This recipe is also packed with vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, C, and calcium. So, you’ll enjoy a delicious meal that also nourishes your body.
Why This Baked Tuscan Chicken Recipe Works
This easy baked chicken dinner is loved for many reasons. It’s a quick Italian chicken recipe that’s full of flavor. The chicken is seared to keep juices in, then baked in a creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes.
It’s a flavorful one pan meal, which means less mess and more time to enjoy. Adding spinach right in the pan adds healthy greens without extra dishes.
This Baked Tuscan Chicken is perfect for any occasion. It’s great for a romantic dinner or a quick family meal. The recipe makes 4 servings, but you can adjust it easily:
- As written, it uses 4 chicken breasts (about 1.75 pounds total) for 4 servings.
- To serve more, just double the ingredients and use a bigger dish.
- For smaller portions, halve the ingredients and use a smaller dish.
It’s also fast to make, with just 10 minutes of prep. After a 20-minute bake covered and 15 minutes uncovered, the chicken is ready. It’s cooked to a safe 165°F.
Rating: 4.95 out of 5 (based on 1077 votes)
Nutritionally, each serving is a balanced meal. It has:
| Calories | Carbs | Protein | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|
| 423 | 9g | 29g | 31g |
Leftovers reheat well and stay fresh in the fridge for 3-4 days. This makes it a great choice for meal prep.
Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions about this baked Tuscan chicken recipe? We’ve got answers to common queries and tips to make cooking easy.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can! Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful. Just remember, they might take a bit longer to cook through.
How can I make the sauce lighter?
Want to reduce calories? Use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream. The sauce will still be rich in flavor but lighter.
This recipe is super versatile. Try adding your favorite veggies like:
- Sautéed mushrooms
- Roasted red peppers
- Artichoke hearts
- Zucchini or summer squash
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers. But the sauce might change a bit when thawed and reheated. Store chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently.
For the best taste, use fresh Parmesan cheese. Also, adjust the seasoning as sun-dried tomatoes can vary in saltiness.
Now you know the answers to common questions and tips to make a delicious meal. Your family will love it!
More Italian-Inspired Chicken Recipes to Try
If you love this creamy italian chicken recipe, you’re in for a treat! There are many easy chicken breast recipes inspired by Italy. They’re great for busy weeknights when you want a cozy meal fast.
Try creamy chicken Florentine for a dish with tender chicken and spinach sauce. Or, make chicken parmesan for a classic with breaded chicken, tomato sauce, and mozzarella.
For a cheesy bake, make chicken alfredo bake. It’s a mix of pasta, chicken, and creamy alfredo sauce. Another favorite is chicken cacciatore, with chicken, tomato sauce, bell peppers, and herbs.
For something lighter, try Italian dressing chicken. It’s chicken marinated in zesty dressing then grilled or baked. Or, go for bruschetta chicken for a fresh, tomato-basil topping.
These Italian chicken dishes will be hits with your family. They offer tender chicken and delicious sauces, taking you to Italy with every bite.
Feedback and Reviews from Readers
Our easy baked Tuscan chicken recipe has been a hit. Many readers have shared their positive experiences and helpful tips. Here are some of the most insightful reviews and comments to help you understand what to expect when trying this dish at home.
Sarah loved the recipe, saying, “I made this for my family last night, and it was a huge success! The chicken was so tender and flavorful, and the sun-dried tomatoes added a nice touch. I served it with pasta, and everyone loved it!”
Michael also shared his experience: “I was a bit skeptical about using heavy cream in a chicken recipe, but it turned out amazing. The sauce was rich and creamy, and the chicken was cooked perfectly. I’ll definitely be making this again!”
“I give this recipe a 5-star rating! It’s easy to make, and the flavors are incredible. I even had leftovers for lunch the next day, and it tasted just as good reheated.” – Emily, reader
Many readers loved how simple and quick the recipe is. Lisa said, “I love that this recipe only takes 30 minutes to make. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when I don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen.”
| Rating | Number of Votes |
|---|---|
| 3.93 | 13 |
The feedback from readers has been overwhelmingly positive. They love the flavor, ease of preparation, and versatility of the recipe. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this baked Tuscan chicken recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Printable Recipe Card for Baked Tuscan Chicken
Are you tired of searching for your favorite baked Tuscan chicken recipe? We’ve got you covered! Our convenient, printable recipe card fits on one page. It’s perfect for saving or adding to your recipe binder.
This one page recipe card has everything you need. It lists ingredients, step-by-step instructions, nutritional info, and cooking tips. People love this dish, giving it high ratings and saying they make it again and again.
Some like to add kale instead of spinach and artichoke hearts or mushrooms for extra flavor. The sauce is a hit, with 1 ½ cups of chicken broth and ½ cup of heavy cream for creaminess. It also has 3 cups of baby spinach and ⅓ cup of parmesan cheese for taste.
To cook it right, brown the chicken for 2 minutes on each side. Then, simmer it in the sauce. Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature. It should be at least 165°F (74°C).
“I love having this printable recipe card on hand. It makes preparing this delicious Tuscan chicken dish a breeze, and I can easily share it with friends and family!” – Sarah, home cook
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Or, freeze them for up to 3 months. For a tasty Tuscan Chicken Casserole, bake the leftovers at 375°F for 20-30 minutes. Serve it with pasta or roasted veggies for a restaurant-style meal at home.
Conclusion
This baked Tuscan chicken recipe is a true winner. It combines flavors and is easy to make. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
The chicken breasts are tender and covered in a creamy garlic parmesan sauce. Sun-dried tomatoes add sweetness, while spinach brings freshness. It’s quick to make, ready in just 30 minutes.
This recipe stands out because it’s versatile. You can serve it over pasta like fettuccine or penne. It also goes well with rice, risotto, or veggies like asparagus or zucchini.
Each serving has 417 calories, 27g of protein, and 32g of fat. This shows it’s a balanced and satisfying meal.
The best baked Tuscan chicken is customizable. You can adjust the spice or try different cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago. You can also change the sun-dried tomatoes or add fresh herbs like basil or oregano.
This recipe is a must-have in your kitchen. Its delicious flavors, easy preparation, and flexibility make it a favorite. It’s sure to become a staple in your cooking.