Mary Berry Tuscan Chicken is a delectable dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy sauce infused with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and garlic. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and become a favorite in your household.
This recipe serves 4-6 people and can be prepared in approximately 1 hour.
What is Mary Berry Tuscan Chicken?
Mary Berry Tuscan Chicken is a creamy and flavorful chicken dish that incorporates Italian-inspired ingredients such as sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a rich Parmesan sauce.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Creamy Flavor: The sauce is incredibly rich and creamy, making it a comfort food classic.
- Easy to Prepare: Despite its gourmet appearance, this dish is straightforward and easy to prepare.
- Versatile: Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, it’s a healthy yet indulgent choice.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Its delicious flavors are sure to impress and delight any dinner guest.
Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Tuscan Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: about 1 kg (2.2 lbs)
- Salt and pepper to taste: for seasoning the chicken
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: for cooking the chicken
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes: chopped, about 75g (2.6 oz)
- 3 cups fresh spinach: roughly chopped
- 4 cloves garlic: minced
- 1 cup heavy cream: about 240ml (8 fl oz)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: about 120ml (4 fl oz)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: about 100g (3.5 oz)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: for added flavor
Equipment
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Tongs or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife
Instructions to Make Mary Berry Tuscan Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes until it starts to thicken.
Step 3: Add the Spinach and Cheese
- Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Step 4: Combine Chicken with Sauce
- Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top.
- Let everything simmer together for about 5 minutes to ensure the chicken is fully coated and heated through.
What Do I Serve With Mary Berry Tuscan Chicken?
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Perfect for soaking up the rich sauce.
- Steamed Rice: A simple side that complements the flavors.
- Garlic Bread: Great for dipping into the creamy sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Adds a healthy and colorful touch to your meal.
- Pasta: Serve the chicken and sauce over a bed of pasta for a hearty dish.
Pro Tips to Make Perfect Mary Berry Tuscan Chicken
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes enhance the dish’s flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cook just until done to keep it juicy and tender.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Use Heavy Cream: For the best consistency, don’t substitute heavy cream with lighter alternatives.
- Simmer Slowly: Let the sauce simmer slowly to thicken properly without burning.
Variations of Mary Berry Tuscan Chicken
- Add Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic for added earthiness.
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Swap Spinach for Kale: Use kale instead of spinach for a different texture and flavor.
- Add White Wine: Replace some of the chicken broth with white wine for extra depth.
- Use Chicken Thighs: Substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier result.
How Do I Store Mary Berry Tuscan Chicken Leftovers?
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Separate Sauce: If possible, store the sauce separately to maintain texture.
How Do I Reheat Mary Berry Tuscan Chicken Leftovers?
- Microwave: Reheat in the microwave on medium power, stirring occasionally.
- Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed.
- Oven: Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and reheat at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Nutrition Value (per serving):
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Cholesterol: 120mg
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FAQs
How long does it take to make Mary Berry Tuscan Chicken?
The total preparation and cooking time for Mary Berry Tuscan Chicken is approximately 1 hour. This includes the time to cook the chicken and prepare the creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts in this recipe?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Chicken thighs are juicier and will add a slightly different texture to the dish. Adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
What can I substitute for heavy cream in the Tuscan Chicken recipe?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. However, keep in mind that the sauce may not be as thick and creamy as when using heavy cream.
How do I make the sauce thicker for Mary Berry Tuscan Chicken?
To make the sauce thicker, you can let it simmer for a longer period, allowing it to reduce. Alternatively, you can add a slurry made of 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water to the sauce, stirring until it thickens.
Final Words
Mary Berry Tuscan Chicken is a delightful recipe that brings a taste of Italy to your kitchen. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, it’s sure to become a favorite. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting and delicious meal with your loved ones.