This Creamy Spinach and Chicken dish is a comforting and flavorful meal that’s rich, creamy, and packed with nutrients. Perfect for a quick dinner, it pairs well with rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 500 g)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 4 cups (120 g) fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- Optional: Red pepper flakes, for garnish
Directions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add the Spinach:
- Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and stir until wilted.
- Combine with Chicken:
- Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy spinach sauce over them. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve:
- Garnish with red pepper flakes if desired and serve warm with your choice of sides.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over cooked pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
- Pair with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips
- For extra flavor, sear the chicken in butter instead of olive oil.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to 165°F (75°C).
- Substitute kale for spinach if preferred.
Nutritional Benefits
- Chicken: A great source of lean protein.
- Spinach: Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds calcium and umami flavor.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-free
- Not suitable for dairy-free diets but can be modified with substitutions.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 4 servings)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Protein: 30 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fat: 26 g
- Fiber: 1 g
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to avoid separating the sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Rich, creamy sauce complements the tender chicken and fresh spinach.
- A versatile recipe that pairs well with various sides.
- Packed with protein and nutrients, making it a wholesome and satisfying meal.
Conclusion Creamy Spinach and Chicken is a simple yet indulgent dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, cheesy sauce and nutrient-packed spinach. It’s a versatile and delicious meal that’s perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions. Try it today and enjoy the comforting flavors of this crowd-pleasing recipe!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well and add extra flavor. Adjust cooking time as needed. - Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, thaw and drain the spinach before adding it to the sauce. - What can I substitute for heavy cream?
Use half-and-half, coconut cream, or a cream cheese mixture for a lighter option. - Can I make this dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cream and cheese alternatives. - Can I add mushrooms?
Absolutely! Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic for extra texture and flavor. - How do I thicken the sauce?
Simmer longer or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water). - Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, store the cooked chicken and sauce separately, then reheat and combine before serving. - Can I add other cheeses?
Mozzarella, Gruyère, or Asiago cheese are great options to enhance the flavor. - Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs and perfect for a keto diet. - What sides go best with this dish?
Mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or crusty bread work wonderfully to soak up the creamy sauce.