Tuscan Herb Chicken

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 30 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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If you're looking for a dish that brings a taste of Italy into your home, this Tuscan Herb Chicken is just what you need. It combines savory herbs, a splash of wine, and fresh tomatoes for a meal that's both elegant and comforting. Perfect for a weekday dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients for Tuscan Herb Chicken

Boneless chicken breasts are the star of this dish, providing a lean and tender protein base. The olive oil and butter work together to create a rich sear and depth of flavor. Dry white wine adds acidity and complexity, while lemon juice brightens everything up. Chicken broth adds moisture and an extra layer of savory goodness. Garlic, rosemary, and thyme bring aromatic earthiness, and cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness. Finally, fresh basil and Parmesan cheese finish the dish with a fresh, herbal note and a touch of umami.

Tips & Tricks

  • If you don't have fresh herbs, you can use dried ones, but use them sparingly as they are more potent.
  • For the best sear on your chicken, make sure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken.
  • Don't overcrowd the pan; cook the chicken in batches if necessary to maintain a good sear.

Serving Suggestions

This Tuscan Herb Chicken pairs wonderfully with a side of creamy risotto or a simple garlic butter pasta. For a lighter option, serve it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. A crisp, chilled glass of white wine would complement the meal perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs will work well and add an extra layer of juiciness to the dish. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
What can I use if I don't have white wine?
You can substitute with more chicken broth or a splash of apple cider vinegar for a similar acidity.

Tuscan Herb Chicken Recipe Walkthrough

First, pat your chicken breasts dry and season them generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple step ensures that the chicken's natural flavors shine through while adding a fundamental layer of taste.

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil and butter. Once the butter is melted and begins to sizzle, place the chicken in the skillet. Let each side cook for about 5 minutes until they are beautifully golden brown. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside. This searing process locks in the juices, giving you juicy chicken later.

In the same skillet, toss in the garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Sauté this mixture for about a minute until the garlic is fragrant and the herbs release their aroma. This step builds a flavorful base for the sauce.

Pour in the white wine, lemon juice, and chicken broth. Using a wooden spoon, scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet — these are packed with flavor. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly.

Return the chicken to the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and cover. Let it simmer for 15 minutes. This allows the chicken to absorb the aromatic flavors of the sauce.

Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet, cover again, and let them cook for an additional 5 minutes until they're soft and tender. This step gives the dish a fresh, tangy note.

Just before serving, stir in the fresh basil and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. These final touches add a burst of freshness and a savory finish.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick to prepare and cook, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
  • Uses simple, fresh ingredients that pack a punch of flavor.
  • Elegant enough for guests, but easy enough for a family dinner.
  • Minimal cleanup with just one skillet needed.

Ingredients

4 boneless chicken breasts
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup dry white wine
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/4 cup chicken broth
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear on both sides until golden brown, about 5 minutes per side. Remove chicken and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the white wine, lemon juice, and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring to a simmer.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
6. Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet, cover, and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the tomatoes are tender.
7. Stir in fresh basil and Parmesan cheese before serving.

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