Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Sundried Tomato Pesto

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Staring at those chicken breasts? Wondering what can I make with them? This Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto is a flavor bomb.

It combines savory chicken with a rich, slightly tangy, pesto infused cream sauce.

Brief Overview

This dish is Italian inspired comfort food. It is ready in under an hour, and it's surprisingly simple. This recipe serves 4. It's perfect for a satisfying family meal.

Main Benefits

It is packed with protein and deliciousness. This dish makes any weeknight feel special. The vibrant sun-dried tomato pesto elevates it beyond your average easy creamy chicken recipes .

Ready to dive in? Honestly, you won't regret making this. Let's move to the ingredients!

A Creamy Dream

This recipe shines with a sun-dried tomato pesto. Oh my gosh! It gives the dish a unique and unforgettable flavor. We're talking about transforming plain chicken into a culinary masterpiece.

How to Cook Healthy Chicken Breast? Let's keep it simple!

We're going to sear the chicken for a golden crust. Then, we'll simmer it in a creamy Tuscan sauce. You know? It's all about building layers of flavor without fuss.

Get Ready for Some Italian Sunshine!

This recipe is inspired by the flavors of Tuscany. It combines sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, spinach, and Parmesan. It’s a bit like a Tuscan chicken pasta recipe , but without the pasta.

.. until you serve it over pasta, of course!

Chicken Breast Recipes Easy and Amazing

Don’t be intimidated by the "pesto." It’s literally tossing ingredients into a food processor. This makes it so simple. It's a great way to impress without stressing.

Quick Chicken Dinner Ideas : Boom! Done!

This is your answer for a what to make with chicken tonight moment. It’s faster than ordering takeout. It's way more satisfying, and it's healthier too.

Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get This Show on the Road!

Right, so before we can even think about How To Cook Boneless Chicken Breast let's gather our bits and bobs.

Honestly, having everything prepped makes life SO much easier. Trust me, been there, done that, got the slightly burnt apron to prove it!

Main Ingredients: The Stars of Our Show

Here's the line-up for this creamy dream. Remember, good quality ingredients make all the difference.

• Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto:
  • Sun-dried tomatoes: 1/2 cup (70g) , oil-packed (drained)
  • Parmesan: 1/4 cup (30g) , grated
  • Garlic: 2 cloves
  • Olive oil: 1/4 cup (60ml)
  • Pine nuts: 2 tablespoons
  • Basil: 1 tablespoon , chopped
  • Red pepper flakes: a pinch (optional)
• Chicken:
  • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: 4 (about 6 oz / 170g each)
  • Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
  • Butter: 1 tablespoon , unsalted
  • Onion: 1 medium , chopped
  • Garlic: 2 cloves , minced
  • Chicken broth: 1 cup (240ml)
  • Heavy cream: 1/2 cup (120ml)
  • Parmesan: 1/4 cup (30g) , grated
  • Spinach: 5 oz (140g) , roughly chopped
  • Salt & pepper: To taste

Chicken is Key: For the How To Cook Healthy Chicken Breast part, fresh is best! Look for chicken breasts that are plump and pink, not grey or slimy.

That's the tell tale sign they're past it.

Seasoning Notes: A Symphony of Flavors

This is where the magic happens. This recipe is on the Chicken breast recipes easy to do list!

• The Pesto Power: Sun-dried tomatoes, basil, and garlic... honestly, what can i make with these ingredients that isn't delicious?
• Creamy Dreamy: Don't skimp on the Parmesan. It adds a lovely richness to the sauce. A decent grating of Pecorino Romano can be used as a substitute!
• Spice it Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a lovely kick. Easy creamy chicken recipes never tasted so good.

Equipment Needed: No Fancy Gadgets Required

No need to break the bank!

• Food processor or blender: For the pesto. A stick blender will work in a pinch.
• Large skillet: This Tuscan chicken pasta recipe all comes together in one pan less washing up!
• Meat mallet or rolling pin: For pounding the chicken. Optional, but it helps it cook evenly.

Now, this Creamy Tuscan Chicken is not only Quick chicken dinner ideas but it's the perfect What to make with chicken tonight if you're looking for a proper treat.

Let's get cooking, shall we? What is the Healthy Way To Cook Chicken? We're about to find out!

Nailing the Creamy Tuscan Chicken Breast: My Go-To Method

Honestly, if you ask me what can i make with chicken breasts that's both easy and impressive, this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Breast is always on my list.

It's like a warm hug on a plate. You know, the kind of dish that makes everyone go "Ooh!" when you bring it to the table.

I always think of how to cook healthy chicken breast when I'm making this.

Prep Steps: Your Mise en Place Power-Up

• Essential Mise en Place: Chop your onion, mince the garlic, and roughly chop the spinach. Measure out all your ingredients. Seriously, doing this first saves so much time.
• Time Saving Organization Tips: Make the sun-dried tomato pesto ahead of time. It keeps well in the fridge for a couple of days. Honestly, the pesto is a game changer for chicken breast recipes easy .
• Safety Reminders: Watch out for splatters when searing the chicken! Use tongs to flip. You do not want to get hurt!

step-by-step Process: Easy Peasy Chicken Squeezy

1. Make the sun-dried tomato pesto. Pulse all the ingredients until a coarse paste forms. Set aside for later.
2. Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness of 1/2 inch. Season with salt and pepper. This helps them cook evenly, so this is the how to cook boneless chicken breast correctly.
3. Sear the chicken in a skillet with olive oil and butter over medium high heat. Cook for 5- 7 minutes per side , until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165° F/ 74° C . Set aside.
4. Sauté onion until softened. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
5. Pour in chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits. Simmer for 2- 3 minutes .
6. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer until the sauce thickens, about 2- 3 minutes .
7. Stir in the sun-dried tomato pesto and spinach. Cook until spinach wilts, about 2 minutes .
8. Return chicken to the skillet and nestle in the sauce. Simmer for 2- 3 minutes . Garnish with basil and Parmesan.

Pro Tips: Secrets from My Kitchen

• Expert Technique: Pounding the chicken to an even thickness. Not gonna lie, this is the key to juicy chicken. This also helps with the Healthy way to cook chicken .
• Common Mistake to Avoid: Overcooking the chicken! Use a meat thermometer. Trust me, you'll thank me later!
• make-ahead Option: The Tuscan chicken pasta recipe is great for meal prepping! The sauce tastes even better the next day. Reheat gently.

This dish offers quick chicken dinner ideas for those busy weeknights. Need something what to make with chicken tonight ? This is a classic and satisfying choice.

I like to serve this with pasta. It is a fantastic choice for a weeknight dinner.

I remember one time I made this for my fussy mother-in-law. She loved it! So, if she approves, you know it's good.

Enjoy this easy creamy chicken recipes it is a winner.

Recipe Notes: Tips for Tuscan Chicken Perfection

Okay, so you're ready to tackle this Creamy Tuscan Chicken. Fantastic! Let’s make sure it's a cracking success, shall we? Honestly, this is easy creamy chicken recipes , but a few pointers never hurt.

Serving Suggestions: Make it Look Like a Million Bucks

Right, plating and presentation ideas . Think rustic Italian trattoria meets modern elegance. Serve this bad boy over a bed of pasta linguine or fettuccine are top choices, I tell you.

Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh basil and an extra grating of Parmesan.

For sides, a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette would be a nice touch. Fancy a tipple? A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or a crisp Italian white wine would go down a treat.

Storage Tips: Don't Let Leftovers Go to Waste

Refrigeration guidelines are simple. Pop any leftovers into an airtight container and stash them in the fridge. They'll be grand for up to 3 days.

Freezing options ? This one's a maybe. The sauce might get a bit grainy after freezing, so it's best enjoyed fresh.

But if you're determined, freeze in a suitable container for up to a month.

Reheating instructions: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce is looking a bit thick.

Variations: Getting Creative

Okay, so what can i make with this recipe, but switch it up a bit? I hear you! For a dietary adaptation , try swapping heavy cream for coconut cream for a dairy-free version.

You could even use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. It won't be quite the same, but still tasty!

Seasonal ingredient swaps ? In the summer, chuck in some fresh cherry tomatoes along with the spinach. In the autumn, roasted butternut squash would be lovely.

Nutrition Basics: The Good Stuff

Let's talk simplified nutrition information . Each serving clocks in around 550 calories. You're also looking at 45g of protein, 35g of fat, and 15g of carbs.

The key health benefits ? You're getting a good dose of protein, which is essential for muscle building. Plus, spinach is packed with vitamins and minerals, making this healthy way to cook chicken really nutritious!

So there you have it. Whether you fancy how to cook boneless chicken breast , this recipe is truly easy! It’s such a quick quick chicken dinner ideas that will impress your mates.

Feel free to have some fun with it, experiment, and don't be afraid to make it your own. Now go on, get cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Creamy Tuscan Chicken recipe ahead of time? I'm a busy bee!

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and the sun-dried tomato pesto a day in advance. Store them separately in the fridge. Then, just sear the chicken and combine everything when you're ready to serve. It's like having a pre-made restaurant quality meal waiting for you cheers to that!

What can I make with this Creamy Tuscan Chicken besides pasta? I'm watching my carbs.

Great question! If you're cutting back on carbs, this Creamy Tuscan Chicken is fantastic served over mashed cauliflower, creamy polenta, or even alongside a simple green salad. You could also serve it with zucchini noodles or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli.

It's versatile enough to fit your dietary needs, innit?

How long does this Creamy Tuscan Chicken last in the fridge, and what's the best way to reheat it?

Leftovers will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over medium low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it, but be careful not to overcook the chicken.

No one wants rubbery chicken, now do they?

I'm allergic to pine nuts! What can I substitute in the sun-dried tomato pesto?

No worries! You can easily substitute the pine nuts with walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds. Toasting them lightly before adding them to the pesto will enhance their flavor. You could also omit the nuts altogether if you prefer a nut-free pesto. It will still be absolutely smashing!

What other vegetables can I add to this dish, besides spinach? I want to load it with veggies.

Go for it! This recipe is a great canvas for adding more veggies. Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or chopped kale would be delicious additions. You could even throw in some roasted cherry tomatoes for extra sweetness. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the vegetables are cooked through.

More veg never hurt anyone!

Is there a lighter version of this recipe? All that cream sounds a bit naughty!

For a lighter version, you can substitute half and-half for the heavy cream, although the sauce won't be quite as thick. Another option is to use a combination of chicken broth and a smaller amount of cream, maybe 1/4 cup.

Also, don't be shy with adding more spinach it's a great way to add volume without extra calories. Bob's your uncle! You've got yourself a lighter, but still delicious, Creamy Tuscan Chicken.