Creamy Tuscan Chicken Thighs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What’s not to love about crispy, golden-brown chicken thighs paired with a rich, creamy sauce bursting with savory flavors? The addition of sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Parmesan cheese gives this dish a wonderful depth of flavor, while the creamy sauce ties it all together beautifully. It’s an easy, quick, and comforting meal that everyone will enjoy, and it can be served with pasta or rice to soak up that delicious sauce. Plus, it’s adaptable with a few simple ingredient swaps!

Ingredients

• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

• Olive oil

• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper

• 1 large shallot, peeled and minced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 cup Marsala wine (or Vermouth, or dry white wine)

• 1/4 cup chicken broth

• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream

• 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes, jarred, in olive oil

• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (preferably a high-quality brand)

• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped (baby spinach works best)

• 1/2 cup chopped cherry tomatoes (or any good red tomatoes)

• Parsley or fresh thyme for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Coat the bottom of a large shallow cast-iron skillet or braising pan with olive oil. Heat the pan on medium until hot.

2. Season the chicken thighs on both sides with salt and pepper. Brown the chicken skin-side down for about 15 minutes until the skin is crispy.

3. Flip the chicken and cook for another 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) when checked with an instant-read thermometer.

4. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside on a plate. Cover with foil or keep it in a warm oven while preparing the sauce.

5. Add the shallot and garlic to the same pan. Sauté, stirring constantly, for about 2 minutes until softened.

6. Pour in the Marsala wine, allowing it to bubble down and deglaze the pan while scraping up the browned bits from the bottom.

7. Add the chicken stock, heavy cream, and sun-dried tomatoes to the pan. Stir occasionally, cooking the sauce for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.

8. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated. Add the chopped spinach and fresh tomatoes, cooking until the spinach wilts.

9. Return the chicken thighs to the pan, allowing them to heat through and absorb the flavors of the sauce.

10. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6 servings

• Cook Time: 40 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Chicken Cutlets: If you prefer a quicker version, use thinly sliced boneless, skinless chicken breasts. This will cut down on cooking time significantly while still giving you that delicious creamy sauce.

• Pasta: To make the dish heartier, consider serving it over pasta. The pasta will soak up the creamy sauce and make for an even more satisfying meal.

• Low-Fat Version: For a lighter alternative, reduce the amount of cream and use more chicken broth. You can also thicken the sauce with Wondra flour.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover creamy Tuscan chicken thighs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to help loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it, but be sure to cover the dish to prevent drying out.

FAQs

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you like a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to the sauce.

Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs will work well in this recipe. Just be mindful that they will cook faster, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Can I use frozen chicken thighs for this recipe?

It’s best to thaw frozen chicken thighs before cooking. Cooking from frozen may result in uneven cooking and affect the texture of the skin.

Can I make this recipe without heavy cream?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, though the sauce won’t be as thick or rich.

Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to the sauce for added flavor and texture.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

To thicken the sauce, you can simmer it for a bit longer or use a small amount of cornstarch or Wondra flour to help it set up.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, this dish can be prepared ahead of time. Store the cooked chicken and sauce separately, then reheat together just before serving.

Can I freeze this dish?

It’s not recommended to freeze this recipe due to the cream sauce, as it can change in texture upon freezing and thawing. However, the chicken can be frozen on its own and reheated with fresh sauce.

What should I serve with this dish?

This creamy Tuscan chicken pairs wonderfully with pasta, mashed potatoes, or a simple side of steamed vegetables or a salad.

Conclusion

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Thighs are an easy yet flavorful dish that will quickly become a weeknight favorite. With crispy chicken, a rich cream sauce, and fresh vegetables, this meal is both comforting and delicious. It’s versatile, too—adapt it to suit your preferences or dietary needs with a few simple swaps. Enjoy this delightful dish as a satisfying main course, whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply treating yourself to something special.

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