One Pan Tuscan Chicken Thighs
Introduction
If you’re on the hunt for a delicious, quick, and easy dinner recipe, look no further than one-pan Tuscan chicken thighs. With minimal cleanup, loads of flavor, and balanced ingredients, this dish is sure to become a favorite in the rotation of weeknight meals. Packed with creamy textures, vibrant sun-dried tomatoes, and perfectly cooked chicken, it’s a hearty comfort meal perfect for gatherings or any casual dinner at home.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
– Chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
– Olive oil
– Garlic, minced
– Cherry tomatoes
– Sun-dried tomatoes, drained and sliced
– Baby spinach
– Heavy cream
– Chicken broth
– Parmesan cheese, grated
– Salt
– Black pepper
– Red pepper flakes
Prep Time
Preparation for this flavorful dish is quick and manageable. With a few simple and fresh ingredients, the hands-on process usually takes you no more than 10 minutes. From chopping garlic to slicing sun-dried tomatoes and preparing the chicken, the ease of this dish is one of its most charming features.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time for this recipe usually clocks in at around 30 minutes. Combined with the prep time, the total time needed is roughly 40 minutes, making it a convenient option even for the busiest of schedules. As for the yield, this recipe typically serves four, which is perfect for a small gathering or for meal prep.
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
1. Pat the chicken thighs dry using a paper towel to ensure they sear properly.
2. Season both sides of the chicken thighs generously with salt and black pepper.
3. Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add olive oil to the skillet.
Sear the Chicken Thighs
4. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down into the hot skillet and sear for 4-5 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
5. Flip the chicken thighs and sear the other side for an additional 3-4 minutes.
6. Once seared, remove the chicken thighs from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Prepare the Sauce Base
7. Reduce the heat to medium and add minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
8. Add chicken broth, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet, stirring to combine.
Add Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
9. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. Allow the spinach to wilt slightly, which will take about 1-2 minutes.
Nestle the Chicken into the Sauce
10. Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side up, and nestle them into the creamy sauce.
11. Spoon the sauce over the chicken and make sure they are well-coated.
Bake the Chicken
12. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
13. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken thighs are fully cooked and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Serve and Enjoy
14. Remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool slightly.
15. Serve the chicken thighs with the creamy sauce, ensuring every plate gets a good amount of the sauce, spinach, and tomatoes.
Notes
Cooking Tips
– Make sure to pat the chicken thighs dry for optimal crispiness.
– Use a thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F internally for safety.
Ingredient Substitutions
– You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, but the sauce will be less rich.
– If you don’t have fresh spinach, frozen spinach (thawed and drained) can also be used.
Storage Instructions
– Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
– Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if necessary.
Serving Suggestions
– Serve this dish with crusty bread to soak up the sauce, or pair it with rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta for a complete meal.
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Cook Techniques
Use Bone-In, Skin-On Chicken Thighs
Using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs ensures juicy and flavorful results. The skin crisps up beautifully, adding texture to the dish.
Brown Chicken for Crispy Texture
Sear the chicken thighs in a hot skillet first to achieve a golden-brown crust. This enhances flavor and locks in juices before simmering.
Deglaze the Pan
After searing the chicken, deglaze the pan with a small amount of chicken broth or liquid to incorporate the flavorful browned bits into the sauce.
Simmer with Sauce
Once the chicken is partially cooked, simmer it in the creamy sauce with Tuscan flavors, allowing the meat to absorb the seasonings while cooking through.
Use Fresh Ingredients
Incorporate fresh garlic, spinach, and basil for enhanced taste and aroma. Fresh ingredients elevate the dish in quality.
Balance the Cream Sauce
Make sure to balance the heavy cream in the sauce with chicken broth to avoid it being too rich while keeping the sauce perfectly smooth and flavorful.
FAQ
Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs, but the cooking time may vary slightly, and the flavor may not be as deep as bone-in thighs.
Can I substitute heavy cream?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or coconut cream as a lighter alternative to heavy cream. Be mindful that this may slightly change the texture and taste of the sauce.
What can I use instead of spinach?
Kale or arugula would work as a good substitute for spinach in this recipe. Make sure to adjust the cooking time depending on the substitute.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain the creamy consistency.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Freezing is not recommended because cream-based sauces can separate upon thawing, affecting the texture and overall consistency of the dish.
What side dishes pair well with Tuscan Chicken Thighs?
This dish pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or a side of crusty bread. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables or pasta for a complete meal.
Conclusion
The one-pan Tuscan chicken thighs recipe is a fantastic combination of simplicity, flavor, and convenience. The dish brings together tender, juicy chicken thighs with a creamy, flavorful sauce that’s perfect for soaking up with crusty bread or pairing with your favorite side. It’s a wholesome, satisfying meal that’s easy enough for a busy weeknight but elegant enough to serve guests. Give it a try, and it may soon become a new family favorite in your recipe collection.
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