25-Minute Creamy Tuscan Chicken (No Dairy)

25-Minute Creamy Tuscan Chicken is a simple and quick recipe that’s quick to make and packed with flavor. This dish features chicken cooked in a creamy sauce made with coconut milk, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach. It’s an ideal meal for busy weeknights because it takes just about 25 minutes to prepare and cook. Plus, it is completely dairy-free, making it a perfect option for anyone who is lactose-intolerant or following a dairy-free lifestyle.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

There are many reasons to love this recipe. First, it is fast. You can have dinner ready in about 25 minutes. This means less time in the kitchen and more time with your family or friends. Second, the flavors in this dish are delicious and satisfying. The combination of the sun-dried tomatoes and the creamy coconut milk creates a rich sauce that goes perfectly with the chicken.

Another reason to adore this dish is its healthiness. Chicken is a great source of protein, and spinach adds a boost of nutrients. Using coconut milk instead of dairy keeps it light but creamy. Lastly, this recipe is easy to customize. You can add your favorite veggies or even swap out the chicken for another protein.

HOW TO MAKE 25-MINUTE CREAMY TUSCAN CHICKEN

Making 25-Minute Creamy Tuscan Chicken is simpler than you might think. With just a few ingredients and quick cooking steps, you can create a comforting and rich meal that your family will crave again and again.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

• A large skillet
• A knife and cutting board
• A mixing bowl
• A whisk or fork

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 shallot, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1 tsp pepper
• 4 chicken thighs (or chicken breasts)
• 2 tbsp ghee (or avocado oil for dairy-free)
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp arrowroot starch
• 1.5 cups coconut milk
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes
• 1/4 cup basil, chopped
• 3 cups spinach
• Chopped parsley (optional, for topping)

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prepare Ingredients: Start by preparing your shallot and garlic. Dice the shallot and mince the garlic so they are ready to use.
2. Mix Seasonings: In a small bowl, mix together the Italian seasoning, sea salt, and pepper. This will be the seasoning for your chicken.
3. Prepare Chicken: If you are using chicken breasts, it’s a good idea to pound them to an even thickness. This helps them cook evenly.
4. Heat Skillet: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ghee or avocado oil to the pan.
5. Season Chicken: Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the chicken and make sure it coats well.
6. Cook Chicken: Place the chicken in the hot skillet. Cook each piece for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until it is nice and browned. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
7. Cook Shallot and Garlic: In the same skillet, add the diced shallot and minced garlic. Cook for about 1 to 2 minutes, until they are softened and fragrant.
8. Make Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and arrowroot starch until smooth. Pour this mixture into the skillet, along with the coconut milk, sun-dried tomatoes, and chopped basil. Stir everything well to combine.
9. Combine with Chicken: Place the cooked chicken back in the skillet. Cover the skillet and let it simmer on low heat for about 3 to 4 minutes.
10. Add Spinach: Finally, add the chopped spinach to the pan. Stir until the spinach is wilted and combined with the sauce.
11. Serve: Your creamy Tuscan chicken is now ready to be served! You can serve it with side vegetables or rice and sprinkle chopped parsley on top for added flavor.

 

 

HOW TO SERVE 25-MINUTE CREAMY TUSCAN CHICKEN

This dish is wonderful on its own, but there are a few great ways to serve it to make it even better. You can spoon the creamy chicken over a bed of rice or pasta for a heartier meal. Alternatively, serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to add some crunch and color to your plate. For a complete dinner experience, you can also pair it with some crusty bread to help soak up the delicious sauce.

STORAGE & FREEZING : 25-MINUTE CREAMY TUSCAN CHICKEN

If you happen to have leftovers, you can store them easily. Let the chicken cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay good in the fridge for up to 3 days.

If you want to freeze the chicken, you can place it in a freezer-safe bag. Be sure to squeeze out as much air as you can before sealing. This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you are ready to eat it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

To enhance your meal, consider serving this dish with a variety of sides. Grilled asparagus, roasted zucchini, or sautéed broccoli would be excellent choices. You could also prepare a simple side salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and your favorite dressing.

If you enjoy carbohydrates, garlic bread or a warm baguette make great additions. For a refreshing drink, a glass of iced tea or lemonade pairs nicely with this dish.

VARIATIONS

This recipe is very flexible. Here are a few variations you can try:

• Protein Swaps: If you want to use another protein, shrimp or turkey cutlets are great alternatives to chicken. Just be mindful of cooking times.
• Veggie Boost: Feel free to add more vegetables. Bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini can all work well. Just add them when you are cooking the shallots and garlic.
• Herb Changes: Instead of basil, you can try using parsley or oregano for a different herb flavor.
• Spiciness: If you like some heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts. Just be sure to pound them evenly for consistent cooking.

2. Is coconut milk the only dairy-free option?
Coconut milk is a great option for a creamy texture, but you could also try almond milk or cashew cream for different flavors.

3. Can I make this in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and then cook the chicken and combine everything right before serving.

4. What can I serve with this recipe?
This dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or vegetables. A side salad or crusty bread can also complement the meal nicely.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR 25-MINUTE CREAMY TUSCAN CHICKEN

If you want to prepare ahead, there are a few things you can do:

• Chop Veggies: Dice the shallots and mince the garlic the day before. Store them in the refrigerator so they are ready to cook.
• Mix Seasonings: Pre-mix the Italian seasoning, sea salt, and pepper and store in a small jar or bag.
• Prep Chicken: If using chicken breasts, you can pound them and season ahead of time. Simply cover them and keep them in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook.

These tips can save you time when you are ready to make this delicious meal. Enjoy your Creamy Tuscan Chicken!

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