Baked Tuscan Chicken Breast

If you’re looking for a delightful dinner that feels gourmet but is super easy to whip up, you’ll love this Baked Tuscan Chicken Breast recipe! It’s one of those meals that makes you feel like a chef without spending hours in the kitchen. The creamy sauce, bursting with flavors from sundried tomatoes and fresh spinach, is perfect over a bed of pasta or simply served with your favorite side.

This dish is great for busy weeknights or even family gatherings when you want to impress without the stress. Plus, it takes just 30 minutes from start to finish—who wouldn’t love that?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Baked Tuscan Chicken Breast can be on your table in just 30 minutes!
• Creamy Deliciousness: The rich sauce elevates simple chicken into a comforting meal everyone will enjoy.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the flavors, making it perfect for family dinners.
• Flexible Ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make extra servings for lunches throughout the week—it reheats beautifully!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients for this dish is simple and fun! These wholesome items come together beautifully to create a meal that’s both tasty and satisfying.

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon canola oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon paprika
• ⅛ teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon corn starch
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
• ⅓ cup sundried tomatoes (chopped)
• ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup chopped fresh spinach

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to make it your own! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Change the greens: If spinach isn’t your favorite, kale or arugula would work well too!
• Add some spice: Toss in red pepper flakes for a little heat if you like things spicy.
• Try different cheeses: Swap out Parmesan for mozzarella or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Baked Tuscan Chicken Breast

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 425 degrees F. This ensures everything cooks evenly and gives your chicken that perfect golden crust. Next, place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and cover them with plastic wrap. Using a rolling pin or meat mallet, gently flatten them to an even thickness. This step helps them cook uniformly, making sure they are juicy and tender.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a baking dish, arrange your chicken breasts so they have plenty of room—not too crowded! Drizzle with canola oil, then sprinkle your salt, Italian seasoning, paprika, and black pepper over them. Rubbing this mixture onto the tops adds incredible flavor that really shines through once baked.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together cream, minced garlic, corn starch, salt, and pepper until it’s smooth. Then stir in those vibrant sundried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese. Pour this luscious sauce around (not over) the chicken in your baking dish—this allows the chicken to bask in all that flavor while cooking!

Step 4: Bake It Up

Pop your dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 16-20 minutes. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 165 degrees F at the thickest part of the chicken. Trust me; this timing will yield moist chicken with a lovely creamy sauce.

Step 5: Add Spinach & Serve

Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and stir in fresh spinach into that glorious sauce. Don’t worry if it looks separated—it just needs a little mix! Cover the pan and let it rest for about 10 minutes while that spinach wilts down perfectly. Finally, uncover it and serve up this comforting dish; it’s going to be a hit at your dinner table!

Pro Tips for Making Baked Tuscan Chicken Breast

Baking the perfect Tuscan chicken breast is all about the little details that make a big difference! Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time:

• Flatten the Chicken Evenly: This helps the chicken cook uniformly, ensuring that each bite is juicy and tender. An even thickness avoids overcooking or undercooking certain parts of the meat.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and spinach, along with high-quality sundried tomatoes, enhance the flavor profile of your dish. Freshness adds vibrant flavors that dried or processed ingredients simply can’t match.

• Check Internal Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Cooking chicken to an internal temperature of 165 degrees F ensures it’s safe to eat while remaining moist and flavorful.

• Let it Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for about 10 minutes after baking lets the juices redistribute throughout the meat. This step makes each bite more succulent and flavorful.

• Stir the Sauce Before Serving: If you notice any separation in your sauce, don’t worry! A quick stir before serving brings everything back together and ensures a creamy consistency that clings beautifully to your chicken.

How to Serve Baked Tuscan Chicken Breast

Presenting your Baked Tuscan Chicken Breast beautifully can elevate your dining experience! Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish:

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil Leaves: A few whole basil leaves add a pop of color and fresh aroma that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
• Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest just before serving brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing touch.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from your chicken.
• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots tossed in olive oil and roasted until tender complements the richness of the chicken.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a squeeze of lemon provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy dish.
• Steamed Asparagus: Simple yet elegant, steamed asparagus adds a vibrant green touch that’s packed with nutrients and pairs well with both pasta and chicken.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Baked Tuscan Chicken Breast will not only look fantastic but also taste incredible. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Baked Tuscan Chicken Breast is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover chicken in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep the sauce separate if possible to maintain texture.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer the chicken and sauce into a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F.
• Add a splash of cream or broth if the sauce has thickened during storage.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

How long does it take to cook Baked Tuscan Chicken Breast?

Cooking Baked Tuscan Chicken Breast takes about 16-20 minutes at 425 degrees F, depending on the size of your chicken breasts.

Can I use other types of cheese in Baked Tuscan Chicken Breast?

Absolutely! While Parmesan adds a lovely flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or feta if you prefer.

Is Baked Tuscan Chicken Breast healthy?

Yes! This dish is packed with protein from the chicken and includes nutritious ingredients like spinach and sundried tomatoes, making it a healthy choice for dinner.

What should I serve with Baked Tuscan Chicken Breast?

Baked Tuscan Chicken Breast pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad. It’s versatile enough to complement various sides!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Baked Tuscan Chicken Breast as much as I do! With its creamy sauce and vibrant flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re prepping for a busy week ahead or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this recipe is designed to please. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your creations!

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Dinner