Tuscan chicken is a delicious Italian chicken dish that typically consists of chicken breasts or thighs that are cooked in a skillet with Tuscan-inspired seasonings and ingredients. While the specific ingredients can vary, there are some classic pairings that help create the signature flavor profile of Tuscan chicken.
Vegetables
One of the key components of Tuscan chicken is the fresh vegetables that are cooked right in the pan with the chicken. Some typical vegetables used in Tuscan chicken recipes include:
- Onions – Thinly sliced onions add flavor and become tender and caramelized as they cook with the chicken.
- Garlic – Minced garlic is almost always included, providing a punch of savory, aromatic flavor.
- Mushrooms – Sliced cremini or white mushrooms complement the other earthy flavors.
- Tomatoes – Diced or crushed tomatoes add brightness and moisture.
- Spinach – Tuscan chicken is often served on a bed of spinach, wilted right in the skillet.
- Broccoli – For a heartier meal, broccoli florets can be added right to the pan as well.
Cooking the vegetables right along with the seasoned chicken results in a one-pan dish where all the components are infused with delicious flavor.
Herbs
In addition to vegetables, Tuscan chicken is flavored with a blend of characteristic Italian herbs. Here are some of the key fresh herbs used:
- Basil – The distinctive flavor of basil is a signature of Tuscan cuisine. It adds a fresher, brighter note.
- Oregano – Earthy oregano complements the other robust ingredients.
- Rosemary – Fragrant rosemary is another Mediterranean herb perfect for Tuscan chicken.
- Parsley – Fresh parsley not only flavors the dish but adds a pop of green color.
- Thyme – Savory thyme rounds out the herbal notes in the dish.
Dried Italian seasoning blends can be used as well for concentrated herbal Tuscan flavors.
Other Flavorings
In addition to the vegetables and herbs, other ingredients are added both for flavor and to create the traditional Tuscan taste:
- Garlic – More garlic is better in Tuscan chicken! In addition to garlic cooked with the veggies, extra minced garlic is often added for intense flavor.
- Onion powder – Onion powder enhances the other oniony flavors.
- Italian seasoning – Pre-mixed Italian seasoning or individual dried herbs are commonly used too.
- White wine – Some recipes deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine, which adds a touch of acidity and richness.
- Chicken broth – Chicken broth is often used as cooking liquid to further boost the flavor.
- Sun-dried tomatoes – For an intense tomato and umami flavor, rehydrated sun-dried tomatoes are the perfect addition.
- Capers – Briny capers provide pops of salty flavor.
Cheese
Cheese is an optional addition that can put Tuscan chicken over the top. Here are some cheeses that pair well:
- Parmesan – Freshly grated or shaved Parmesan adds nutty, salty flavor.
- Mozzarella – Melting mozzarella beautifully blankets the chicken and vegetables.
- Fontina – Nutty, melty fontina is a great choice.
- Feta – For a Greek twist, crumbled feta adds a lovely accent.
- Goat cheese – Tart goat cheese crumbles pair nicely.
Side Dishes
To make it a complete meal, Tuscan chicken is fantastic when served with a starch and vegetable side dishes. Here are some excellent pairings:
Starches
- Polenta – Creamy polenta is a Tuscan classic that soaks up the flavorful pan juices perfectly.
- Mashed potatoes – Buttery, garlicky mashed potatoes complement the chicken.
- Pasta – Tuscan chicken is divine served over penne, rigatoni, or angel hair pasta.
- Risotto – Savory mushroom or tomato risotto makes an indulgent match.
- Gnocchi – Fluffy potato gnocchi is a lovely pairing.
Vegetables
- Roasted vegetables – Root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, brussels sprouts, or cauliflower roasted with garlic and herbs.
- Green beans – Quick-sauteed green beans enhance the dish’s color and nutrition.
- Broccoli – Steamed, sautéed, or roasted broccoli adds more greens.
- Asparagus – Grilled or roasted asparagus makes an elegant side.
- Salad – A crisp green salad tossed in a lemony vinaigrette brightens up the meal.
Complete Tuscan Chicken Dinner Menus
Putting this all together, here are some full dinner menus with Tuscan chicken as the main dish:
| Menu 1 | Menu 2 | Menu 3 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
Conclusion
Tuscan chicken is all about combining flavorful vegetables, herbs, and cheeses with chicken for a hearty, savory Italian meal. Typical pairings include sauteed vegetables like onions, mushrooms, and spinach cooked right in the pan with the chicken along with fresh herbs like basil, oregano, and garlic. Cheese like Parmesan or mozzarella can be added as well. To make it a full dinner, Tuscan chicken is perfect served with a starch like polenta or pasta and roasted vegetables or a fresh salad on the side. With its delicious medley of ingredients, Tuscan chicken makes for a satisfying Italian-inspired meal.