Jamie Oliver Tuscan Chicken

Jamie Oliver’s Tuscan Chicken is a rich and creamy dish inspired by the flavors of Tuscany. It features tender, pan-seared chicken simmered in a luscious sauce made with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, spinach, and cream. This dish brings together rustic Italian ingredients for a comforting, restaurant-quality meal that can be made at home in just 30 minutes.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

• Rich and Creamy Sauce: A velvety mix of cream, Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes.
• Juicy and Flavorful Chicken: Pan-seared for a golden crust and tender interior.
• One-Pan Recipe: Easy to make with minimal cleanup.
• Perfect for Weeknights: Quick and satisfying, ready in under 30 minutes.
• Authentic Tuscan Flavors: Inspired by traditional Italian cooking.

Other Jamie Oliver Recipes

• Jamie Oliver Cauliflower Curry
• Jamie Oliver Cauliflower and Chickpea Curry
• Jamie Oliver Balinese Chicken Curry

What is Jamie Oliver’s Tuscan Chicken?

Jamie Oliver’s Tuscan Chicken is a creamy, flavorful dish featuring pan-seared chicken cooked in a sauce made with garlic, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese. It’s a simple yet indulgent meal that pairs perfectly with pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.

Jamie Oliver Tuscan Chicken Recipe Ingredients

For the Chicken:

Seared chicken breast provides a tender and juicy base.

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (butterflied or pounded thin)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Creamy Tuscan Sauce:

A luxurious sauce adds depth and creaminess to the dish.

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for spice)
• 80g sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
• 200ml heavy cream
• 100ml chicken stock
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 50g grated Parmesan cheese
• 100g fresh spinach
• Juice of ½ lemon
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)

For Garnish and Serving:

Pairing with the right sides enhances the dish’s flavors.

• Fresh basil or parsley (chopped)
• Extra Parmesan (for garnish)
• Pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread

Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver Tuscan Chicken

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

A golden crust locks in the juices and flavor.

• Season both sides of the chicken with salt, black pepper, oregano, and smoked paprika.
• Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
• Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
• Remove from the pan and set aside (it will finish cooking in the sauce).

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

A rich, creamy sauce ties everything together.

• In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat.
• Add garlic and red chili flakes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
• Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.
• Pour in chicken stock, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze.
• Add heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth.

Step 3: Simmer and Finish Cooking

A final simmer ensures the flavors meld beautifully.

• Return the chicken to the pan and simmer for 5 minutes until fully cooked.
• Stir in fresh spinach and cook for 1 minute until wilted.
• Squeeze in lemon juice and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

Final touches elevate the dish’s taste and presentation.

• Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley.
• Serve with pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
• Add extra Parmesan on top for a rich finish.

What to Serve with Jamie Oliver Tuscan Chicken

Pairing the dish with complementary sides enhances the overall meal.

• Pasta (Fettuccine or Tagliatelle): A perfect base for the creamy sauce.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and smooth, great for soaking up the sauce.
• Crusty Bread: Ideal for dipping into the rich, cheesy sauce.
• Steamed Greens: Lightens up the meal with freshness.
• Roasted Vegetables: A colorful, nutrient-rich addition.

Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver Tuscan Chicken

These simple tips will ensure your Tuscan Chicken turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Thin Chicken Breasts: They cook faster and more evenly.
• Deglaze the Pan with Stock: This adds depth and ensures no flavor is lost.
• Simmer Gently: Avoid boiling the cream to prevent curdling.
• Balance the Flavors: Lemon juice cuts through the richness for a perfect finish.
• Make It Lighter: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt.

Variations of Jamie Oliver Tuscan Chicken

This dish is easily adaptable to different tastes and dietary needs.

• Spicy Version: Add extra red chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
• Vegetarian Alternative: Replace chicken with mushrooms or tofu.
• Extra Cheesy: Stir in more Parmesan or add mozzarella on top.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
• Slow Cooker Method: Cook on low for 4-5 hours for extra tender chicken.

How to Store Leftovers Jamie Oliver Tuscan Chicken?

Proper storage keeps the dish fresh and maintains its flavors.

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing Option: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months.
• Best Storage Tip: Keep the sauce separate from the pasta to prevent sogginess.

How to Reheat Jamie Oliver Tuscan Chicken Leftovers?

Reheating properly ensures the chicken stays tender and the sauce remains creamy.

• Stovetop Method: Heat over medium-low, adding a splash of milk or stock to loosen the sauce.
• Microwave Approach: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
• Oven Method: Bake at 160°C (320°F) for 15 minutes until warmed through.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

This dish provides a well-balanced mix of protein, fats, and carbohydrates.

• Calories: 480 kcal
• Protein: 40g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fat: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 580mg

FAQs

What makes Tuscan Chicken different from other creamy chicken dishes?

Tuscan Chicken features sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, giving it a unique Mediterranean flavor compared to other cream-based chicken dishes.

Can I make Tuscan Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the sauce ahead and store it separately. When ready to serve, reheat and add freshly cooked chicken.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs add more juiciness and work just as well in this recipe.

How do I make Tuscan Chicken sauce thicker?

Let the sauce simmer for a few extra minutes or stir in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water.

Final Words

Jamie Oliver’s Tuscan Chicken is a creamy, flavorful dish packed with classic Italian flavors. Whether served with pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread, this recipe delivers a satisfying and delicious meal in just 30 minutes. Try it today for an easy, restaurant-quality dinner at home!

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