Michael Symon’s Tuscan Chicken is a dish that brings a burst of vibrant flavors to your plate.
This recipe captures the essence of Tuscany with its use of fresh ingredients like rosemary, garlic, and olives.
You marinate the chicken in olive oil and lemon juice, which gives it a tender and tangy flavor that stands out.
A key piece of advice is to allow the chicken to brown deeply on each side, bringing out the robust flavors.
How to Make Michael Symon Tuscan Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 Chicken Breasts
- 3 tbsp Olive Oil
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 2 tsp Rosemary (chopped)
- 1 Lemon (juiced)
- 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes
- 1/2 cup Olives (sliced)
- 1/2 cup White Wine
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
Start by marinating the chicken breasts with olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and lemon juice.
Allow it to rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 2:
Preheat your grill for both direct and indirect heat.
Make sure the grill is hot before placing the chicken on it.
Step 3:
Once the grill is ready, place the marinated chicken directly over the heat, searing each side for about 4 to 5 minutes.
The goal is to achieve a nice, golden brown color on the outside.
Step 4:
Move the chicken to the indirect heat side.
Add the cherry tomatoes, sliced olives, and white wine to the grill.
Close the lid and let everything cook for another 15 to 20 minutes.
Step 5:
Check if the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165°F.
Once cooked, season with salt and pepper before serving.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Use Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh rosemary and ripe cherry tomatoes will enhance the dish’s flavor significantly.
They bring a bright, aromatic quality that dried herbs can’t replicate.
Proper Marination
Don’t rush the marination process.
Allow the chicken to sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes, or longer if possible, to really soak up the flavor.
Monitor Grill Temperature
Keeping the grill at the right temperature is essential to avoid overcooking or burning the chicken.
Use a thermometer to check the temperature if you’re unsure.
Resting the Chicken
Letting the chicken rest after grilling allows the juices to redistribute, making it more tender.
Five minutes should be adequate before slicing or serving.
Experiment with Additions
Feel free to add other herbs and spices or even a splash of balsamic vinegar for a slightly different flavor profile.
Customizing the recipe to your taste is part of the fun!
What to Serve with Michael Symon Tuscan Chicken
Garlic Bread
You can never go wrong with garlic bread alongside your Tuscan chicken!
This side is simple but pairs perfectly, offering a crunchy texture and buttery flavor.
I like to add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a little extra flavor kick!
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables are a fantastic choice for both flavor and color.
You can try zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots tossed with olive oil and herbs.
This side dish complements the rich chicken while making the plate look beautiful.
Creamy Polenta
Creamy polenta serves as a unique alternative to traditional sides.
Its smooth texture allows it to soak up the savory juices from the chicken.
You’ll enjoy how this soft, tenacious polenta contrasts with the crispy elements of the chicken.
Caprese Salad
Caprese salad with tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil brings freshness to your meal.
You can drizzle it with a bit of balsamic glaze for a sweet finish.
This salad is refreshing, adding balance and vibrant flavors to the overall plate.
Sautéed Spinach
Sautéed spinach offers a nutritional boost alongside your chicken dish.
With just a dash of garlic and lemon juice, it creates an exciting and simple side.
Its bright flavor balances the richness of the chicken, enhancing the entire meal.
Lemon Couscous
Lemon couscous brings an exciting twist with light, fluffy grains and a citrusy aroma.
A squeeze of lemon over warm couscous adds a lively touch to your dinner table.
You’ll find this pairing completes the meal, offering warmth and zest in every bite.
Variations and Substitutions
You can use different herbs to tailor this dish to your own taste preferences and diet specifics.
Swap the oregano in Michael Symon’s Tuscan Chicken with thyme or rosemary for a new depth of flavor that might surprise you.
For a citrus twist, you could zest a lemon over the chicken before cooking or replace the vermouth with a splash of white wine for a slight change in taste.
If you’re a fan of spicy food, consider adding a dash of red pepper flakes to give the Tuscan Chicken a bit of a kick that pairs wonderfully with the olives and tomatoes.
Try experimenting with different types of olives to explore how the flavors change the overall taste of the dish.
Alternatively, marinate the chicken beforehand in olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, and thyme for an hour or more to achieve a richer aroma.
How to Store Leftover Michael Symon Tuscan Chicken
Refrigeration
Once your Tuscan Chicken has cooled completely, transfer it to an airtight container.
It can be safely stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days without any issues.
This ensures that the flavors remain intact and ready to enjoy later!
Freezing
For more extended storage, freezing is the way to go.
Place the chicken in a sealable freezer bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months, which is perfect for future meals.
Labeling
Don’t forget to label your container with the date, whether refrigerating or freezing.
This simple step helps you keep track of freshness and ensures you enjoy your chicken at its best!
Such organization makes all the difference when revisiting this tasty delight.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using Low-Quality Ingredients
When you’re making Michael Symon’s Tuscan chicken, it’s crucial to always select fresh ingredients.
Using lower-quality chicken or stale herbs can drastically affect the final outcome and flavors.
Overcooking the Chicken
It’s easy to overcook chicken, especially when you’re eager to make sure it’s done.
Watch it closely, and remove it from heat when it’s just cooked through to retain its juiciness.
Skipping the Marination Time
Though you might be tempted to rush this step, marinating is essential for allowing flavors to fully develop.
Give the chicken at least an hour to soak in the olive oil and herbs for that authentic Tuscan taste.
Michael Symon Tuscan Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 Chicken Breasts
- 3 tbsp Olive Oil
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- 2 tsp Rosemary chopped
- 1 Lemon juiced
- 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes
- 1/2 cup Olives sliced
- 1/2 cup White Wine
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Start by marinating the chicken breasts with olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and lemon juice.
- Allow it to rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Preheat your grill for both direct and indirect heat.
- Make sure the grill is hot before placing the chicken on it.
- Once the grill is ready, place the marinated chicken directly over the heat, searing each side for about 4 to 5 minutes.
- The goal is to achieve a nice, golden brown color on the outside.
- Move the chicken to the indirect heat side.
- Add the cherry tomatoes, sliced olives, and white wine to the grill.
- Close the lid and let everything cook for another 15 to 20 minutes.
- Check if the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165°F.
- Once cooked, season with salt and pepper before serving.