Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season generously with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Stir in the Parmesan cheese until it's melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. The sauce should thicken slightly as it simmers.
- Incorporate the Spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until it wilts, about 2-3 minutes. The spinach will shrink down considerably.
- Return the Chicken: Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet with the sauce. Spoon the sauce over the chicken, ensuring it's well coated.
- Simmer and Serve: Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired. Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Notes
For best results, use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. Don't overcook the chicken, and adjust the sauce consistency to your liking by simmering longer for a thicker sauce or adding more chicken broth for a thinner sauce. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. When reheating, do so gently to prevent the sauce from separating. Serve with a side of roasted asparagus or garlic bread for a complete meal.