Description
Succulent chicken bathes in a rich, herb-infused cream sauce inspired by Tuscany’s rustic kitchens. Silky textures and bold Mediterranean flavors invite you to savor each luxurious bite of this comforting culinary journey.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Dairy and Cream:
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon (14 g) butter
Herbs, Seasonings, and Additional Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) chicken broth
- 1/2 cup (75 g) sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups (60 g) fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by patting it dry with paper towels, then generously season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs, ensuring even coverage.
- Warm a large skillet over medium-high heat, combining olive oil and butter until the mixture shimmers and creates a golden cooking surface.
- Carefully place seasoned chicken breasts into the hot skillet, allowing them to develop a rich, caramelized exterior for 5-6 minutes per side until they reach a perfect golden-brown color and are thoroughly cooked.
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a clean plate, keeping it warm while preparing the sauce.
- Reduce skillet heat and introduce minced garlic, stirring quickly to release its aromatic essence without burning.
- Deglaze the pan by pouring in chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up the flavorful browned bits clinging to the skillet’s bottom.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, creating a luxurious base for the sauce.
- Incorporate Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts completely and seamlessly blends into the creamy liquid.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach, allowing the greens to wilt and the tomatoes to soften, which will intensify the sauce’s depth of flavor.
- Gently return the chicken to the skillet, nestling the pieces into the creamy sauce and letting them reheat for an additional 3-4 minutes.
- Plate the chicken, generously spooning the vibrant sauce over the top, and optionally garnish with fresh basil leaves for a final touch of brightness.
Notes
- Opt for chicken cutlets or thin-sliced chicken breasts to ensure even and quick cooking, reducing the risk of dry meat.
- Use fresh spinach instead of frozen for a brighter, more vibrant color and crisp texture in the final dish.
- Adjust the sauce consistency by simmering longer for a thicker sauce or adding a splash of broth if it becomes too dense.
- Customize the recipe for dietary needs by substituting heavy cream with coconut milk or Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 750 mg
- Fat: 44 g
- Saturated Fat: 22 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 46 g
- Cholesterol: 170 mg