Get ready to transport your taste buds to the rolling hills of Tuscany with these mouthwatering and flavorful Tuscan chicken recipes! This region of Italy is famous for its rich flavors, bold aromas, and hearty dishes. And what’s more perfect than combining those characteristics with the versatility of chicken? From creamy garlic sauces to sun-dried tomato skillets, we’ve got 20 delicious Tuscan-inspired chicken recipes that are sure to become new favorites. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these recipes offer something for everyone. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through Tuscany’s rich flavors and aromas, sharing our top 20 Tuscan chicken recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. So grab a fork and let the feast begin!
Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken
Elevate your mealtime with this rich and flavorful dish, featuring tender chicken smothered in a creamy garlic sauce inspired by the Tuscan region.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
4. Pour in heavy cream, stirring to combine with garlic. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
5. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet, spooning some of the creamy sauce over the top. Season with salt, pepper, and dried basil.
6. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and sauce is bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Tuscan Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet
A flavorful and aromatic skillet dish that combines the richness of chicken with the brightness of Tuscan sun-dried tomatoes, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add the diced onion. Cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and pour in the chicken broth.
7. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Experience the classic flavors of Tuscany with this easy and satisfying one-pot pasta dish, featuring tender chicken, vegetables, and a rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 ounces pasta of your choice (e.g., penne or fusilli)
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add the pasta and cooked chicken back to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until pasta is al dente.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Grilled Tuscan Herb Chicken
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with this mouthwatering grilled chicken recipe, infused with the bright flavors of Tuscany. This dish is perfect for a summer evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, and oregano.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve with lemon wedges on the side, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Tuscan Chicken and White Bean Stew
A hearty and comforting Italian-inspired stew that combines tender chicken, creamy cannellini beans, and aromatic vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot; cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the cannellini beans, diced tomatoes, white wine (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the pot and stir to coat with the bean mixture.
6. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tuscan Chicken with Spinach and Artichokes
This hearty chicken dish combines the flavors of Tuscany with the creaminess of spinach and artichoke hearts. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté garlic and chicken breasts until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Add spinach, artichoke hearts, white wine, and heavy cream. Simmer for 10 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken
This recipe is a perfect blend of tender chicken, rich sauce, and savory herbs, all made easy with the help of your slow cooker. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken in the slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, olive oil, garlic, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Tuscan Chicken Alfredo Bake
Tuscan Chicken Alfredo Bake: A creamy, comforting casserole that combines the flavors of Italy with the convenience of a one-dish wonder.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup fettuccine pasta
– 2 cups Tuscan-style marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chicken in olive oil until cooked through. Add marinara sauce and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked fettuccine pasta, Tuscan-style chicken mixture, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tuscan Chicken Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the richness of Tuscan chicken with the sweetness of roasted bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup Tuscan-style tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers, removing seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, garlic, parsley, Parmesan cheese, and oregano until cooked through.
4. Stuff each pepper with the chicken mixture, leaving a small border at top.
5. Pour Tuscan tomato sauce over the stuffed peppers.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Tuscan Chicken and Mushroom Risotto
This creamy risotto combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and rich Parmesan cheese, all infused with the bright flavors of Tuscany. A hearty and satisfying dish perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1/2 cup Arborio rice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add chicken; cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
2. In the same skillet, add mushrooms; cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1 minute.
4. If using wine, add and cook until absorbed.
5. Warm broth in a separate pot. Add 1/2 cup to the skillet; stir until almost absorbed. Repeat, adding broth in 1/2-cup increments, until rice is creamy (about 20-25 minutes).
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese. Combine cooked chicken and mushroom mixture into the risotto. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Tuscan Chicken with Roasted Vegetables
Savor the flavors of Italy with this hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with roasted vegetables, all infused with the richness of Tuscan-style herbs. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and herbs. Add the chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the onion, bell pepper, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes on the sheet.
4. Remove the chicken from marinade and place it on top of the vegetables.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
6. Serve with chicken broth spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuscan Chicken and Orzo Casserole
Savor the flavors of Italy with this hearty and comforting casserole, featuring chicken, orzo pasta, and a rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, garlic, and oregano in a little oil until cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine cooked orzo, chicken mixture, marinara sauce, and Parmesan cheese in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Sprinkle parsley on top and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tuscan Chicken Panini with Pesto
Experience the flavors of Tuscany in this delicious panini sandwich, featuring juicy chicken, creamy pesto, and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, sliced
– 2 tablespoons pesto
– 4 slices Italian bread (such as Ciabatta or Focaccia)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Spread one side of each bread slice with pesto.
3. Top the pesto with sliced chicken, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Place a slice of mozzarella cheese on top of the chicken.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by placing another bread slice, pesto-side down, on top of the filling.
6. Brush the outside of each sandwich with olive oil.
7. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Tuscan Chicken and Potato Bake
Tuscan Chicken and Potato Bake Recipe
Discover the rich flavors of Tuscany with this hearty chicken and potato bake recipe. Tender chicken, crispy potatoes, and savory herbs come together for a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, toss together chicken, potatoes, onion, garlic, chicken broth, olive oil, rosemary, salt, and pepper until well coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tuscan Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce
Experience the flavors of Tuscany with this classic Italian-inspired dish, featuring tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich and tangy lemon butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, combine lemon juice, butter, and white wine (if using). Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Reduce sauce by half, stirring occasionally, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve chicken breasts topped with the lemon butter sauce and garnished with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuscan Chicken and Kale Soup
Warm up with this hearty and flavorful soup that combines the richness of chicken and kale with the bold flavors of Italy. Perfect for a cozy night in, this recipe is quick to prepare and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups chopped kale (curly or lacinato work well)
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion, garlic, and carrot in a little bit of olive oil until softened.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add the kale, chicken broth, white wine (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tuscan Chicken Pizza with Mozzarella
A flavorful twist on traditional pizza, this Tuscan-inspired dish combines the savory taste of chicken, creamy mozzarella cheese, and fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pre-made pizza crust or homemade dough
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, mix chicken, olive oil, garlic, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Roll out pizza crust to desired thickness.
4. Arrange chicken mixture evenly over crust, leaving a small border around edges.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over top of chicken.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tuscan Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet
Tuscan Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet Recipe
Savor the flavors of Italy with this hearty skillet dish, featuring tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich Tuscan-inspired sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup store-bought or homemade gnocchi
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the onion to the skillet and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cherry tomatoes, white wine (if using), chicken broth, and thyme to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce. Reduce heat to low and simmer until the chicken is cooked through, about 10-12 minutes.
6. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions or recipe. Add the gnocchi to the skillet and toss to combine with the sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuscan Chicken with Balsamic Glaze
Experience the rich flavors of Tuscany with this simple yet elegant chicken dish. Pan-seared chicken breasts are smothered in a tangy balsamic glaze, served with roasted vegetables and crispy prosciutto.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6 slices prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and thyme. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Pan-sear in hot skillet until cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side.
4. Transfer chicken to oven-safe plate and spoon balsamic glaze over the top.
5. Roast bell pepper and zucchini in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until tender.
6. Top chicken with prosciutto and serve with roasted vegetables.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuscan Chicken and Quinoa Salad
This flavorful salad combines the richness of chicken, quinoa, and vegetables with the brightness of Italian dressing. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup sliced red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons Italian dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and feta cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and Italian dressing.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (includes cooking quinoa)
Summary
Discover the flavors of Tuscany with these 20 mouth-watering chicken recipes! From creamy garlic chicken to hearty pasta dishes and flavorful skillet meals, there’s something for everyone. Try Tuscan Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet or One-Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta for a quick and easy dinner. Or go all out with Tuscan Chicken and White Bean Stew or Tuscan Chicken Alfredo Bake. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or something light and fresh, these Tuscan-inspired recipes are sure to delight your taste buds.
