If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor and easy to whip up, baked Tuscan chicken is a winner. This delightful recipe combines juicy chicken breasts with sun-dried tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and a blend of Italian herbs that’ll transport your taste buds straight to the sun-soaked hills of Tuscany.
Ingredients
Here’s what you will need to create this delicious baked Tuscan chicken, bursting with flavors and textures. Gather these ingredients before you start cooking.
Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Vegetables
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), chopped
- 1 cup spinach (fresh or frozen, if using frozen, thawed and drained)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Let’s get started on making this delicious baked Tuscan chicken. Follow these steps for a mouthwatering dish that will impress everyone!
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Gather all your ingredients listed above to streamline the cooking process.
- Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear them for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. This will help lock in the flavors.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet add an additional tablespoon of olive oil, then sauté the diced onion and minced garlic for about 2 minutes until they’re fragrant and the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the spinach and chopped sun-dried tomatoes, cooking until the spinach wilts, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the cherry tomatoes and Italian seasoning, mixing everything together well.
- Take the skillet off the heat and pour the mixture over the seared chicken in a baking dish.
- Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Cook
Let’s get cooking! I will guide you through the searing and baking steps to create this delightful baked Tuscan chicken.
Searing the Chicken
First I heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering I carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. I sear them for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and develop a beautiful crust. It’s essential to not overcrowd the skillet so that each piece gets the heat it needs. Once done I transfer the seared chicken to a plate and set it aside for later.
Baking the Chicken
Now I prepare to bake the chicken. In a 9×13-inch baking dish I pour the sautéed vegetable mixture from earlier over the bottom. Next I place the seared chicken breasts on top of the vegetables. I then evenly sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken. The oven should still be preheated to 400°F (200°C), and I carefully place the baking dish in. I bake it for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly, creating a mouthwatering golden layer.
Serving Suggestions
Baked Tuscan chicken is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various sides and accompaniments to enhance your dining experience. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions to complement this delightful meal.
- Pasta: I love serving baked Tuscan chicken over a bed of creamy or garlic-infused pasta. The rich flavors of the dish meld perfectly with fettuccine or penne, creating a satisfying combination.
- Rice: For a lighter option, fluffy white rice or fragrant jasmine rice makes an excellent base. The rice soaks up the delicious juices from the chicken and vegetables, giving every bite a burst of flavor.
- Vegetables: Roasted or steamed vegetables add a great nutritional boost to the meal. I suggest pairing with asparagus, broccoli, or even a fresh garden salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing touch.
- Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or garlic bread is perfect for sopping up the flavorful sauce. I always keep some on hand for guests to enjoy alongside their chicken.
- Wine Pairing: To elevate the dining experience, I recommend serving a glass of white wine, such as a crisp Pinot Grigio or a light Sauvignon Blanc. These wines enhance the herbal notes of the Tuscan chicken without overpowering the dish.
- Garnish: Don’t forget to sprinkle some freshly chopped basil or parsley on top of the chicken right before serving. This adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness that ties everything together beautifully.
Each of these serving suggestions adds its own unique element, making the baked Tuscan chicken a delightful centerpiece for any meal.
Conclusion
Baked Tuscan chicken is one of those dishes that brings a little taste of Italy right to my kitchen. The combination of juicy chicken and vibrant veggies makes it not just a meal but an experience. I love how easy it is to prepare and how it fills my home with wonderful aromas while it bakes.
Whether I’m serving it for a special occasion or just a cozy weeknight dinner, it never fails to impress. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how it becomes a favorite in your home too. Enjoy every bite and savor the flavors!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is baked Tuscan chicken?
Baked Tuscan chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish featuring juicy chicken breasts topped with sun-dried tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, spinach, and Italian herbs. It captures the rich flavors of Tuscany and is perfect for any meal.
What ingredients do I need for baked Tuscan chicken?
To make baked Tuscan chicken, you’ll need 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, olive oil, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, cherry tomatoes, onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese.
How do I prepare the chicken for baking?
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse and season the chicken, then sear it in a skillet with olive oil for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown. Set aside before layering with sautéed vegetables.
How long do I bake the Tuscan chicken?
Bake the assembled Tuscan chicken for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The cheese should be bubbly and golden for the best results.
What should I serve with baked Tuscan chicken?
This dish pairs well with creamy or garlic-infused pasta, fluffy rice, roasted or steamed vegetables, and warm bread like garlic bread or a crusty baguette. A glass of white wine can enhance the flavors.
Can I customize the baked Tuscan chicken recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers or mushrooms, and swap out cheeses to suit your taste. Experimenting with different herbs can also give your dish a unique twist.