Description: A simple yet elegant dish featuring juicy chicken breasts baked with the vibrant flavors of Tuscany. Cherry tomatoes burst with sweetness, fresh spinach adds a touch of earthiness, and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses create a delectable, cheesy topping. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or more to taste
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped (optional, for a deeper flavor)
- A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare your baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or a tablespoon of olive oil. This will prevent the chicken from sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the chicken. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them to brown nicely.
Step 3: Make the seasoning mixture. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. If using minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, add them to this mixture as well.
Step 4: Season the chicken. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated. Don’t be afraid to get your hands in there and really massage the flavors into the chicken.
Step 5: Assemble the dish. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes and chopped spinach around the chicken. Make sure the vegetables are evenly distributed.
Step 6: Add the cheese. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken and vegetables.
Step 7: Bake. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. The cheese should be melted and bubbly, and the tomatoes should be softened.
Step 8: Rest and garnish. Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh basil leaves, if desired. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken breast.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Baked Tuscan Chicken Breast recipe is a winner for so many reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and just one baking dish. The combination of Italian herbs, garlic, and Parmesan cheese creates a wonderfully savory and aromatic dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. The cherry tomatoes add a burst of juicy sweetness, while the spinach provides a healthy dose of greens. Plus, the melted mozzarella cheese adds a touch of creamy indulgence.
What’s more, this recipe is versatile and can be easily adapted to suit your preferences. You can add other vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. You can also use different types of cheese, such as provolone or fontina.
Finally, this Baked Tuscan Chicken Breast recipe is a relatively healthy option, packed with protein and vitamins. It’s a great way to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal without sacrificing your health goals.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of pasta, such as spaghetti, penne, or linguine, tossed with olive oil and garlic.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts.
- Serve with a simple salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber.
- Serve over a bed of creamy polenta.
- Serve with crusty bread for dipping in the delicious sauce.
- Serve alongside quinoa or rice for a complete and balanced meal.
- For a low-carb option, serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
- Pair with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the Tuscan flavors.
- Make it a complete Italian feast by serving with a side of garlic bread and a classic Caesar salad.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in the olive oil and spice mixture for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- If you don’t have fresh spinach, you can use frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry.
- To prevent the chicken from drying out, you can cover the baking dish with foil for the first 15 minutes of baking.
- If you want a more golden brown topping, broil the chicken for the last few minutes of baking, but watch it carefully to prevent burning.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- For a richer flavor, use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes.
- Add a splash of white wine to the baking dish for extra moisture and flavor.
- If you’re short on time, you can use pre-shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Experiment with different Italian herbs, such as oregano, thyme, or rosemary.
- For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mixture.
- To make it a one-pan meal, add chopped potatoes, carrots, or onions to the baking dish along with the chicken and vegetables.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information: (per serving, estimated)
- Calories: Approximately 320-380
- Protein: 35-40 grams
- Fat: 15-20 grams
- Carbohydrates: 5-10 grams
- Sodium: 300-400 mg (depending on salt added)
Conclusion:
This Baked Tuscan Chicken Breast recipe is a delightful and easy way to bring the flavors of Tuscany to your table. With tender, juicy chicken, sweet cherry tomatoes, earthy spinach, and a cheesy topping, it’s a meal that’s sure to impress. It’s also versatile, healthy, and can be easily customized to suit your preferences. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a taste of Italy! This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and will quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
- Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
- Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or onions.
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Yes, you can substitute the mozzarella and Parmesan with other cheeses like provolone, fontina, or even a sprinkle of goat cheese for a tangy flavor.
- How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
- The best way to ensure the chicken is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken breast, and it should register 165°F (74°C).
- Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
- You can assemble the dish ahead of time, but don’t add the cheese until just before baking. Store it in the refrigerator and bake as directed when ready. This makes it a great option for meal prepping.
