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Create a flavorful Tuscan chicken recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. This creamy, garlic-infused dish features tender chicken in a rich Parmesan and sun-dried tomato sauce. Easy to prepare and versatile, it pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or fresh vegetables. Packed with classic Italian-inspired flavors, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
½ cup all-purpose flour
3-4 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce:

2 ½ cups chicken broth
1 chicken bouillon cube or 1 teaspoon Better Than Bouillon
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 pinch red pepper flakes
⅓ cup white wine (optional, see notes)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon tomato paste
⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water
⅓ cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon cream cheese, softened
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 cup spinach

Instructions

Prep Work:

In a small bowl, combine the chicken broth, bouillon, onion powder, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.
In a separate container, mix cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Shake well and keep in a cool place.
Slice each chicken breast into 2-3 thinner pieces. Pound to an even ½-inch thickness with a meat tenderizer, if needed. Pat completely dry.

Dredge and Sear the Chicken:

Sprinkle both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Lightly dredge in flour, shaking off the excess.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add half the chicken, ensuring space between pieces. Sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside. Repeat with the remaining chicken.
- Pro Tip: Adjust the heat as needed to maintain a steady sizzle. Add a splash of olive oil if the pan becomes dry.

Deglaze the Pan:

Turn off the heat and carefully remove excess oil, leaving behind the browned bits (fond).
Add white wine, garlic, and tomato paste to the pan over medium heat. Stir, scraping up the fond with a silicone spatula. Cook until the mixture thickens and reduces by half, about 4-5 minutes.

Finish the Sauce:

Add the sun-dried tomatoes and prepared chicken broth mixture. Increase the heat slightly and bring to a gentle boil. Let it simmer for 10 minutes to reduce.
Shake the reserved cornstarch mixture and slowly stir it into the bubbling sauce. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens. Reduce heat to low.
Allow the sauce to cool slightly before gradually mixing in the heavy cream and cream cheese until smooth. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
Add the spinach and stir until wilted. Return the chicken to the pan, spooning sauce over the top. Let it heat through for 3-4 minutes before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Flavorful: Packed with creamy, garlicky, and cheesy goodness.
Restaurant-Quality: A dish that feels special but is easy to prepare at home.
Versatile: Pairs well with pasta, rice, or vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips

Prep Ingredients: Have all ingredients measured and ready before starting for a smooth cooking process.
Don’t Skip the Fond: Those browned bits add depth to the sauce.
Adjust Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream.

Variations and Substitutions

Protein: Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for extra juiciness.
Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut cream and nutritional yeast for the cream and Parmesan.
Herbs: Add fresh basil or parsley for a burst of freshness.
Wine Substitute: Replace white wine with chicken broth if preferred.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, the chicken and sauce can be prepared a day in advance. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

What can I use instead of cornstarch?
Arrowroot powder or all-purpose flour can be used as thickening agents.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat on low.

Serving and Suggestions

Serve over fettuccine, mashed potatoes, or steamed rice for a hearty meal.
Pair with roasted vegetables or a crisp side salad for balance.
Add crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Complement with a glass of white wine or sparkling water for an elegant touch.