Mary Berry Tuscan Chicken Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking to try something delicious and full of flavor, Mary Berry’s Tuscan Chicken recipe is a must!

With a combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and vibrant herbs, this dish brings the tastes of Italy straight to your kitchen. Whether you’re a fan of simple weeknight meals or want to impress guests with something unique, this recipe is the perfect balance of easy and impressive. Plus, Mary Berry’s expertise ensures you’re in for a meal that’s both comforting and a little bit special. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Mary Berry Tuscan Chicken Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To recreate Mary Berry’s Tuscan Chicken, you’ll need a variety of flavorful ingredients that bring together the rich and aromatic flavors of Tuscany. These ingredients combine fresh, hearty vegetables, tender chicken, and Mediterranean herbs, making it a wonderfully satisfying dish.

1. Chicken Breasts (or thighs): The star of the dish!

   Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are typically used for their tenderness and ability to absorb the surrounding flavors. You can also use thighs for extra juiciness and depth of flavor.

2. Olive Oil: A staple in Tuscan cooking, olive oil brings a rich, fruity flavor to the dish. You’ll use it to sear the chicken and sauté the vegetables.

3. Onion: A key ingredient for creating a savory base. You’ll finely chop the onion to ensure it softens beautifully and melds into the sauce.

4. Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add an aromatic, slightly spicy depth that complements the other ingredients perfectly. Garlic is sautéed along with the onion to infuse the oil with flavor.

5. Tomatoes: Ripe cherry tomatoes or plum tomatoes are best. They add a juicy, slightly sweet, and tangy note to the sauce. Some recipes also use sun-dried tomatoes for a more intense flavor.

6. Red Pepper Flakes: These optional flakes add a bit of heat to the dish, balancing the richness with a gentle spice.

7. Fresh Basil: The fragrant, earthy flavor of basil enhances the dish and ties in beautifully with the tomatoes and garlic. Fresh basil leaves are best for this recipe, as dried basil wouldn’t have the same vibrant taste.

8. Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan brings a savory, umami-rich taste that’s quintessential to Tuscan cuisine. It’s sprinkled on top of the chicken at the end to melt into the dish and add a cheesy depth.

9. Double Cream (Heavy Cream): This is used to enrich the sauce and create a smooth, velvety texture. It also helps to mellow the tang of the tomatoes.

10. White Wine: For deglazing the pan, white wine adds acidity and complexity to the sauce. If you prefer to avoid alcohol, you can substitute with chicken stock or a little bit of lemon juice.

11. Chicken Stock: A light chicken stock, preferably homemade or low-sodium, adds a rich flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.

12. Fresh Spinach: Added towards the end of cooking, spinach wilts down quickly and provides a fresh, slightly earthy contrast to the richness of the dish.

Equipment Needed

To make Mary Berry’s Tuscan Chicken, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools to help with cooking, preparation, and serving. Here’s what you should have on hand:

1. Large Skillet or Frying Pan: A heavy-duty, wide skillet is essential for searing the chicken and then sautéing the vegetables. Cast-iron or non-stick pans work best to ensure even cooking.

2. Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is crucial for chopping the vegetables, especially the garlic, onions, and tomatoes. A good chef’s knife will make prep work easier and safer.

3. Chopping Board: A sturdy chopping board is needed to prepare your ingredients before cooking. Consider having separate boards for vegetables and raw meats to avoid cross-contamination.

4. Tongs or Spatula: To handle the chicken without piercing it and losing juices, a pair of tongs will be the most effective. A spatula is also handy for stirring the sauce and turning the chicken.

5. Grater: A fine grater is needed to grate the parmesan cheese. Freshly grated cheese will melt better and contribute to a smoother sauce than pre-grated cheese.

6. Ladle or Spoon: For serving, a ladle or large spoon will help you transfer the chicken and sauce to plates without making a mess.

7. Serving Dishes: Depending on the portion size, either individual plates or a large serving dish will be needed for presenting the finished dish.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Tuscan Chicken

Now that you have your ingredients and equipment ready, let’s walk through the step-by-step process of making this delicious Tuscan Chicken.

1. Prep the Chicken: Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This simple seasoning will bring out the natural flavors of the chicken.

2. Brown the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pan, add a little more olive oil if needed. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and become fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

4. Add the Tomatoes and Wine: Toss in the cherry tomatoes (or your choice of tomatoes) along with the red pepper flakes, if using. Stir and cook for a couple of minutes until the tomatoes begin to soften. Pour in the white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any delicious browned bits left from the chicken. Let the wine reduce by half.

5. Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the chicken stock and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

6. Add the Cream: Stir in the double cream to create a rich, velvety sauce. Add the spinach and cook for a couple of minutes until it wilts down.

7. Return the Chicken: Nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken, then cover and let it simmer for 5 more minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.

8. Finish with Parmesan: Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese over the chicken breasts and allow it to melt into the sauce.

9. Serve: Plate the chicken, spooning the creamy sauce and vegetables over the top. Garnish with freshly torn basil leaves for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Expert Tips

To ensure your Tuscan Chicken turns out perfectly every time, here are a few expert tips:

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When searing the chicken, make sure there’s enough space between the pieces in the pan. If the chicken breasts are crowded, they will steam instead of searing, which could result in a less flavorful crust.

2. Use Fresh Basil: Dried basil won’t have the same vibrant flavor as fresh basil, so make sure you use fresh leaves for garnish. The aroma it adds to the dish is incomparable.

3. Adjust the Cream for Texture: If you want a thicker sauce, add a little more cream. For a lighter version, reduce the cream by half or use half-and-half instead. The key is to balance the richness with the acidity from the tomatoes.

4. Substitute with Other Greens: If you don’t have spinach on hand, you can use kale or arugula as a substitute. These greens will add their own unique flavors to the dish.

5. Serve with Sides: Mary Berry’s Tuscan Chicken pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, a side of roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. A crusty loaf of bread is perfect for mopping up the sauce.

Mary Berry’s Tuscan Chicken is a wonderfully simple yet sophisticated dish that transports you to the heart of Italy. With its rich combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, fresh tomatoes, and aromatic basil, it captures the essence of Mediterranean cooking. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or impressing guests, this dish delivers on both flavor and presentation.

By following the step-by-step instructions and keeping in mind the expert tips, you’ll be able to recreate a dish that feels like a special occasion meal, any night of the week. Enjoy the comforting, rustic flavors of Tuscany in the comfort of your own home!

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Tuscan Chicken

Mary Berry’s Tuscan Chicken recipe is a delight on its own, a perfect balance of Italian-inspired flavors. However, the beauty of this dish is that it’s versatile, allowing for numerous variations to suit your taste or the ingredients you have on hand. Whether you want to add a twist to the flavors or cater to dietary preferences, here are some creative variations to try:

1. Herb Swaps And Additions

   • Thyme vs. Rosemary: If you love the earthy, robust flavor of rosemary, you can replace the thyme with rosemary. Rosemary pairs beautifully with chicken and creates a distinctly fragrant profile.
   • Basil and Oregano: Fresh basil can add a hint of sweetness and a more aromatic, fragrant note to the dish, while oregano can provide a deeper, slightly bitter flavor reminiscent of Mediterranean cuisine.

2. Add Veggies For Extra Nutrients

   • Spinach or Kale: Mary Berry’s Tuscan Chicken already incorporates vegetables like tomatoes, but you could sneak in some leafy greens for added texture and nutrition. Wilt some fresh spinach or kale into the sauce toward the end of cooking for an additional pop of color and flavor.
   • Zucchini: Sautéed zucchini chunks or ribbons can be incorporated into the sauce, adding subtle sweetness and a light, crispy bite that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the chicken.

3. Cheese Variations

   • Goat Cheese or Feta: While the recipe typically uses Parmesan, you can switch this up with crumbled goat cheese or feta. The tangy and creamy texture of goat cheese, for example, complements the savory chicken and tomatoes for a lovely contrast.
   • Mozzarella: If you’re craving a gooey, melty element, mozzarella can be layered into the sauce. It melts beautifully and adds a mild, creamy finish.

4. Change The Protein

   • Pork Tenderloin: For a variation on the protein, try using pork tenderloin instead of chicken. The tender, juicy nature of pork works well with the Mediterranean-inspired flavors of the Tuscan sauce.
   • Chicken Thighs: If you prefer a more flavorful cut of chicken, consider using chicken thighs instead of breasts. Thighs are juicier and have a richer taste, which will bring a new depth to the dish.

5. Spicy Twist

   • Chili Flakes or Fresh Chilies: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add red chili flakes or sliced fresh chilies to the sauce. This brings an extra layer of depth and an exciting kick that can elevate the dish to a new level.

6. Creamy Version

   • If you want a richer, creamier sauce, add a splash of cream or crème fraîche towards the end of cooking. This will turn the sauce into a luxurious, velvety coating for the chicken, making it even more indulgent.

7. Mediterranean Twist

   • Add olives (black or green) and capers to infuse a briny, salty flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of tomatoes. A handful of sun-dried tomatoes could also be added for a concentrated burst of umami flavor.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Tuscan Chicken, with its delightful combination of chicken, tomatoes, herbs, and possibly cream, is a dish that can often provide leftovers to be enjoyed later. To ensure the dish stays fresh and flavorful, here are the best practices for storing those delicious remnants:

1. Cool It Down First

   • Before placing your leftover Tuscan Chicken in the fridge, it’s essential to allow it to cool down to room temperature. Storing hot food can cause condensation and moisture build-up inside your storage container, which can affect both texture and flavor. Ideally, let the chicken sit out for no more than two hours to prevent bacteria growth.

2. Airtight Containers

   • Store your Tuscan Chicken in airtight containers. This will help preserve its flavor and prevent any odors from seeping in from other items in your fridge. Glass containers are an excellent choice, as they do not absorb odors and are often more durable than plastic.

3. Refrigeration

   • Tuscan Chicken will stay fresh in the fridge for 2-3 days. To reheat, it’s best to gently warm it up on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Adding a splash of water or broth can help revive the sauce’s consistency, especially if it has thickened during storage.

4. Freezing Leftovers

   • If you plan to keep leftovers longer, freezing is an option. To freeze Tuscan Chicken, place it in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Leftovers can stay frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat thoroughly before serving.

5. Reheating Tips

   • Avoid microwaving directly, as this can result in uneven heating and potentially make the chicken dry. Instead, reheat in a saucepan or skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce has thickened, you can add a bit of stock or cream to restore its richness.

What Goes Well With Tuscan Chicken

Tuscan Chicken is hearty, flavorful, and rich, so pairing it with the right side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to complement the flavors of the chicken:

1. Garlic Bread Or Crusty Italian Bread

   • There’s nothing like a slice of warm, crusty bread to soak up the rich, savory sauce of Tuscan Chicken. A garlic-infused bread, brushed with butter, is perfect for sopping up every last bit of the delicious sauce.

2. Roasted Vegetables

   • A medley of roasted vegetables-such as bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots-works beautifully with Tuscan Chicken. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness in vegetables and provides a satisfying contrast to the savory flavors of the chicken.
   • Alternatively, you could opt for a simple sauté of green beans or asparagus for a fresh and vibrant side.

3. Pasta

   • Since Tuscan Chicken has its roots in Italian cuisine, pairing it with a fresh pasta like spaghetti, fettuccine, or pappardelle is a natural choice. The pasta will absorb the sauce, making every bite a delicious blend of textures and flavors.
   • A side of creamy risotto could also complement the dish wonderfully, with its luxurious consistency matching the creamy undertones of the sauce.

4. Rice Or Polenta

   • For a gluten-free option, serve the chicken alongside a bed of soft, creamy polenta or rice. The mild flavors of both pair beautifully with the flavorful chicken, absorbing the sauce and offering a smooth, comforting backdrop to the meal.

5. Salad

   • A crisp, fresh salad helps balance out the richness of Tuscan Chicken. A simple arugula or mixed greens salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish, cutting through the creamy sauce with its light acidity.

6. Wine Pairing

   • When it comes to wine, a medium-bodied white like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc works wonders with Tuscan Chicken. If you prefer red wine, opt for a light red like Pinot Noir, which has enough acidity to complement the tomatoes and herbs in the sauce without overpowering the chicken.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Tuscan Chicken is a versatile and flavorful dish that brings together the best of Italian-inspired cuisine with comforting, homestyle ingredients. Whether you choose to modify the recipe with added veggies, change up the protein, or elevate the sauce, this dish offers room for creativity and personal touches.

Storing leftovers is easy with a few simple tips, ensuring you can enjoy the dish again without losing its taste or texture. Pairing Tuscan Chicken with the right sides, such as fresh bread, roasted vegetables, or creamy pasta, further enhances the meal and transforms it into a well-rounded dining experience. Whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight dinner or a more formal occasion, Tuscan Chicken is sure to impress with its rich flavors, succulent chicken, and Italian-inspired flair.

FAQs

What Are The Main Ingredients In Mary Berry’s Tuscan Chicken Recipe?

The main ingredients in Mary Berry’s Tuscan Chicken recipe include chicken thighs or breasts, olive oil, garlic, onions, tomatoes, chicken stock, double cream, and a mix of Italian herbs such as basil and oregano. You may also need fresh spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead Of Thighs For This Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs in Mary Berry’s Tuscan Chicken recipe. However, chicken breasts tend to dry out faster than thighs, so you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly and ensure the breasts are cooked through without overcooking.

How Do I Make Mary Berry’s Tuscan Chicken More Flavorful?

To enhance the flavor, you can marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs before cooking. You can also add a splash of white wine or balsamic vinegar to the sauce for a deeper taste. Incorporating fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme will elevate the dish as well.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Tuscan Chicken In Advance?

Yes, you can make Mary Berry’s Tuscan Chicken ahead of time. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.

Reheat gently on the stove or in the oven. If you’re preparing it ahead, consider slightly undercooking the chicken and finishing it off when reheating to maintain its juiciness.

What Should I Serve With Mary Berry’s Tuscan Chicken?

Mary Berry’s Tuscan Chicken pairs wonderfully with a side of pasta, such as linguine or fettuccine. You can also serve it with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad to complement the richness of the dish.

Is Mary Berry’s Tuscan Chicken A Good Dish For A Dinner Party?

Yes, Mary Berry’s Tuscan Chicken is a fantastic choice for a dinner party. It’s both impressive and flavorful, yet simple to prepare. The creamy sauce and tender chicken make it a crowd-pleaser, and it pairs well with wine, making it a great option for entertaining.

Can I Substitute The Double Cream In Mary Berry’s Tuscan Chicken?

If you need a lighter alternative, you can substitute double cream with half-and-half or a lighter cream. For a dairy-free version, coconut cream can work, although it will change the flavor profile of the dish.

How Long Does It Take To Cook Mary Berry’s Tuscan Chicken?

The total cooking time for Mary Berry’s Tuscan Chicken is about 40-45 minutes, including preparation and cooking. Chicken thighs typically take around 30-35 minutes to cook through, while the sauce may need an additional 10 minutes to thicken and develop flavors.

Can I Freeze Mary Berry’s Tuscan Chicken?

Yes, Mary Berry’s Tuscan Chicken can be frozen. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.

Is Mary Berry’s Tuscan Chicken Suitable For A Gluten-free Diet?

Yes, Mary Berry’s Tuscan Chicken can be made gluten-free by ensuring that the stock and any additional ingredients you use, such as seasoning or sauces, are gluten-free. Pairing it with gluten-free pasta or a vegetable side makes it a complete gluten-free meal.