Creamy Tuscan Chicken Rice Skillet

Indulge in the rustic flavors of Italy with this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Rice Skillet. This comforting one-pan meal brings together tender, golden-seared chicken cubes and fluffy white rice in a luxurious garlic-Parmesan sauce. Enhanced with the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes and the freshness of baby spinach, it’s a sophisticated fusion of Mediterranean zest and hearty homestyle comfort that can be on your table in under an hour.

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The secret to this dish lies in the layering of aromatics. By sautéing the chicken first and then cooking the onions and garlic in the same pan, you build a deep flavor base. As the rice simmers in low-sodium chicken broth, it softens and mingles with the sun-dried tomatoes, creating a savory foundation for the final creamy finish. Whether for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this skillet is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• Proteins: 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 450 g), cut into 2.5 cm cubes
• Rice & Grains: 1 cup (200 g) long-grain white rice, rinsed
• Vegetables: 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup (60 g) baby spinach, roughly chopped; ⅓ cup (50 g) sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), drained and sliced; ½ cup (60 g) cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
• Dairy: 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream; ¾ cup (75 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Liquids: 2½ cups (600 ml) low-sodium chicken broth
• Fats & Oils: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• Seasonings: 1 tsp dried Italian herbs; ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and black pepper, to taste; Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken cubes, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until golden on all sides, about 5–6 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Step 2

In the same skillet, add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3

Add sun-dried tomatoes and cherry tomatoes (if using), and sauté for 1–2 minutes.

Step 4

Stir in the rice, coating it well with the oil and aromatics.

Step 5

Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6

Once the rice is nearly tender and most liquid absorbed, stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes. Return seared chicken to the pan.

Step 7

Simmer gently, uncovered, for 5–7 minutes until sauce thickens, rice is cooked, and chicken is heated through.

Step 8

Fold in chopped spinach and cook until just wilted, about 1 minute. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 9

Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan before serving.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For an extra layer of complexity, use a splash of white wine to deglaze the skillet after sautéing the onions. Be sure to scrape up any browned bits (fond) from the bottom of the pan as they are packed with savory flavor.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can substitute chicken thighs for the breasts if you prefer a juicier, more succulent result. For those looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or evaporated milk can be used in place of the heavy cream, though the sauce will be slightly thinner.

Serviervorschläge

This all-in-one meal is best served warm directly from the skillet. Pair it with a side of crusty artisan bread to soak up the creamy sauce, or serve alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a light balsamic vinaigrette to balance the richness of the Parmesan.

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This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Rice Skillet is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a truly luxurious dining experience. With its harmonious blend of textures and bold Italian-American flavors, it’s a recipe that invites everyone back for seconds.

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Recipe FAQs

→ What makes this Tuscan-style?

The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, garlic, Parmesan, and Italian herbs creates classic Tuscan flavors. The creamy sauce base enhances these traditional Italian ingredients.

→ Can I use brown rice instead?

Brown rice requires longer cooking time and more liquid. You'll need approximately 45-50 minutes and an extra cup of broth. Adjust timing accordingly to ensure the rice becomes tender.

→ How do I prevent the rice from sticking?

Stir occasionally while the rice simmers. Keep heat at low to maintain a gentle simmer. If needed, add small amounts of warm broth if the pan becomes too dry before rice is tender.

→ Can I make this lighter?

Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, evaporated milk, or Greek yogurt thinned with chicken broth. Reduce butter to 1 teaspoon and use less Parmesan while maintaining flavor intensity.

→ What pairs well with this dish?

Crusty bread for soaking up the creamy sauce, a crisp green salad with vinaigrette, or roasted vegetables like asparagus and zucchini complement the rich flavors beautifully.

→ How long do leftovers keep?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce's creamy texture. Avoid overheating to prevent separation.