Tuscan Chicken And Rice Recipe For Creamy Savory Dinner

Name: Tuscan Chicken And Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: – 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided; – 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 4-5 pieces); – 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; – 1 teaspoon garlic powder; – 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided; – 1/4 teaspoon paprika; – 1/8 teaspoon black pepper; – 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; – 1/2 white onion, diced; – 3 cloves garlic, minced; – 1 cup long grain white rice, dry; – 2 cups chicken broth; – 1/2 cup heavy cream; – 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving; – 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped, oil drained; – 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly torn or chopped; – 2 tablespoons lemon juice, plus more for serving; – Fresh parsley for garnish

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Why You’ll Love This Tuscan Chicken And Rice

This Tuscan Chicken And Rice recipe is a game-changer for anyone craving a comforting meal that comes together with ease. It’s packed with bold flavors from herbs and fresh ingredients, making it perfect for busy families or anyone wanting a satisfying dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. You’ll appreciate how this dish balances simplicity with taste, turning ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary that everyone will enjoy.

One of the biggest perks is its ease of preparation. This Tuscan Chicken And Rice is designed for simplicity and speed, with minimal ingredients and a straightforward process that can be ready in under an hour. It’s ideal for busy nights when you need a reliable recipe that doesn’t require fancy tools or advanced skills. Just mix, cook, and serve for a stress-free meal that still feels special.

Beyond ease, there are impressive health benefits. Packed with lean protein from the chicken and nutrient-rich vegetables, this dish supports a balanced diet that keeps you energized. The wholesome grains and antioxidant-rich herbs add extra goodness, making it a smart choice for those watching their health. Whether you’re a busy parent or a student, it’s a tasty way to fuel your day without sacrificing flavor.

The recipe’s versatility stands out too. It adapts easily to different dietary needs, like gluten-free options or low-calorie tweaks, so you can make it work for your lifestyle. For instance, you can swap ingredients to fit vegan preferences or adjust for lighter meals. This flexibility means Tuscan Chicken And Rice can become a staple in your rotation, no matter your preferences.

Last but not least, the distinctive flavor is what really makes this dish shine. The classic Tuscan herbs, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes create a unique taste that’s savory and aromatic. It’s a delightful blend that brings warmth to your table and keeps you coming back for more. Give this Tuscan Chicken And Rice a try, and see how it brightens up your everyday dinners.

Jump To

1. Why You’ll Love This Tuscan Chicken And Rice
2. Essential Ingredients for Tuscan Chicken And Rice
3. How to Prepare the Perfect Tuscan Chicken And Rice: Step-by-Step Guide
4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Tuscan Chicken And Rice
5. Mastering Tuscan Chicken And Rice: Advanced Tips and Variations
6. How to Store Tuscan Chicken And Rice: Best Practices
7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Tuscan Chicken And Rice
8. Tuscan Chicken And Rice

Essential Ingredients for Tuscan Chicken And Rice

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making a delicious Tuscan Chicken And Rice. This section breaks down everything you need, focusing on the precise measurements from the recipe to help you shop and prepare with confidence. You’ll find a structured list below that covers all the essentials, making it simple to follow along and get the flavors just right.

Full Ingredient List

3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 4-5 pieces)
1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 white onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup long grain white rice, dry
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped, oil drained
3 cups fresh spinach, roughly torn or chopped
2 tablespoons lemon juice, plus more for serving
Fresh parsley for garnish

These ingredients come together to create a creamy, flavorful dish that’s hard to resist. Each one plays a role in building the rich Tuscan taste, from the olive oil that adds a subtle earthiness to the spinach that brings in freshness. For more ideas on similar hearty meals, check out our Chicken Spinach and Mushroom Bake for another easy, veggie-packed option.

Special Dietary Options

If you’re adapting this for specific diets, consider these tweaks. For a vegan version, swap the chicken thighs with marinated tofu and use vegetable broth. Those opting for gluten-free can ensure the rice and broth are certified gluten-free, keeping the dish just as tasty. For a lower-calorie take, go with skinless chicken breast and cut back on the olive oil to lighten it up without losing that wonderful flavor.

How to Prepare the Perfect Tuscan Chicken And Rice: Step-by-Step Guide

Getting Tuscan Chicken And Rice right is all about following simple steps that lead to a mouthwatering result. Start by prepping your ingredients to make the process smooth and enjoyable. This guide draws from the recipe’s directions, incorporating tips for perfect cooking every time. You’ll end up with a dish that’s creamy, flavorful, and ready to impress your family.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) to get everything set for baking.
Prepare the chicken by rubbing the thighs with 1-2 tablespoons olive oil, then season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, paprika, and black pepper.
Heat the remaining olive oil in a large cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed sauté pan over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side, then set it aside to rest.
Melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter in the same skillet. Add the diced 1/2 white onion and a pinch of salt, cooking for about 5 minutes until softened, then stir in the 3 cloves minced garlic for 30 seconds.
Stir in 1 cup dry long grain white rice to coat it in the mixture, then add 2 cups chicken broth and bring it to a boil.
Mix in 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (oil drained), 3 cups fresh spinach, and 2 tablespoons lemon juice.
Nestle the browned chicken back into the skillet mixture for even cooking.
Cover the skillet tightly with foil and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the rice is fully cooked.
Finish by garnishing with fresh parsley, additional grated Parmesan cheese, and extra lemon juice before serving.

This method ensures the rice absorbs all the flavors while the chicken stays juicy. If you want to explore more chicken recipes, try our Roasted Red Pepper Spinach Stuffed Chicken Recipe for a fresh twist on stuffed dishes.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Tuscan Chicken And Rice

Making Tuscan Chicken And Rice fit your needs is simple with a few smart swaps. This section covers options for protein, vegetables, and seasonings to keep the dish exciting and adaptable. Whether you’re vegan or watching calories, these changes help maintain that signature taste without much effort.

Protein and Main Component Alternatives

Replace chicken thighs with tofu or tempeh for a vegan-friendly option.
Use skinless chicken breast to cut down on fat.
Opt for firm white fish like cod if you’re following a pescatarian diet.

Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications

Swap sun-dried tomatoes with roasted red peppers for a milder flavor.
Use fresh basil and oregano instead of dried herbs for a brighter taste.
Add seasonal veggies like zucchini or spinach to boost nutrition and color.
Adjust salt levels to meet sodium restrictions, ensuring the dish stays balanced.

These substitutions make the recipe versatile for all kinds of eaters. Experimenting keeps things fun and helps you tailor it to your preferences.

Mastering Tuscan Chicken And Rice: Advanced Tips and Variations

Once you’re comfortable with the basics, take your Tuscan Chicken And Rice to the next level with these advanced tips. From pro cooking techniques to creative variations, this section builds on the recipe’s tips for better results. You’ll learn how to enhance flavors and presentation for a standout meal every time.

Pro Cooking Techniques

For a better texture, sear the chicken over high heat first to lock in juices. Toast the rice briefly in the pan to bring out its nuttiness, adding depth to the dish.

Flavor Variations

Try adding sun-dried tomato pesto for extra tang.
Incorporate spicy Italian sausage to mix up the taste profile.

Presentation and Make-Ahead Options

Serve in shallow bowls with fresh parsley and a drizzle of olive oil to make it visually appealing. For busy days, prepare the rice and sauce base ahead, store it separately, and combine with cooked chicken when ready.

Tips Category	Details
Cooking Technique	Sear chicken for juicier results
Flavor Boost	Add Dijon mustard for depth
Make-Ahead	Store components separately

How to Store Tuscan Chicken And Rice: Best Practices

Proper storage keeps your Tuscan Chicken And Rice tasting fresh for later. Follow these guidelines to handle leftovers safely and maintain that creamy texture. It’s a great way to enjoy the dish over multiple meals without losing quality.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months, thawing overnight before use.
Gently reheat in a covered skillet with a bit of broth to avoid drying out.
For meal prep, cook in batches and store individual servings for easy weeknight meals.

When it comes to leftovers, always prioritize safety and flavor reheating slowly helps keep everything moist and delicious.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Tuscan Chicken And Rice

How long can I store leftover Tuscan Chicken and Rice in the fridge?

Leftover Tuscan Chicken and Rice can be safely stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keeping it sealed tightly helps maintain freshness and prevents bacteria growth. For best quality, try to consume leftovers within this timeframe.

What’s the best way to reheat Tuscan Chicken and Rice without drying it out?

To reheat Tuscan Chicken and Rice, you can use a microwave or a stovetop pan. For the microwave, cover the dish loosely with a microwave-safe lid or wrap to retain moisture, heating in 1-minute intervals and stirring in between. On the stove, warm it over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth, stirring occasionally until heated through. Both methods help keep the chicken tender and rice moist.

Can I substitute the long-grain white rice with other types of rice in this recipe?

While this recipe uses U.S. grown long-grain white rice for its texture and cooking time, you can experiment with other rice varieties like basmati or jasmine. Keep in mind that cooking times and liquid amounts may differ, so adjust accordingly. Brown rice will require more liquid and a longer cooking time, which could change the dish’s consistency.

Is Tuscan Chicken and Rice a healthy meal option?

Tuscan Chicken and Rice offers a balanced meal with lean protein from the chicken, carbohydrates from rice, and usually includes vegetables like spinach or tomatoes. To make it healthier, use skinless chicken breasts, reduce added oils or cream, and include more colorful vegetables. This dish provides essential nutrients and can fit well into a nutritious meal plan.

Can this Tuscan Chicken and Rice recipe be made ahead for meal prepping?

Yes, Tuscan Chicken and Rice is great for meal prepping. Prepare the dish fully, allow it to cool, then portion it into airtight containers. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage. When ready to eat, thaw if frozen and reheat using the microwave or stovetop methods mentioned above for best results.

Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Savory Rice for Easy Dinner