Creamy Spinach and Chicken Recipe

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

  1. Prepare the Chicken:
    • Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. Add the Spinach:
    • Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and stir until wilted.
  5. 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.
  6. 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

  1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
    Yes, chicken thighs work well and add extra flavor. Adjust cooking time as needed.
  2. Can I use frozen spinach?
    Yes, thaw and drain the spinach before adding it to the sauce.
  3. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
    Use half-and-half, coconut cream, or a cream cheese mixture for a lighter option.
  4. Can I make this dairy-free?
    Use dairy-free cream and cheese alternatives.
  5. Can I add mushrooms?
    Absolutely! Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic for extra texture and flavor.
  6. How do I thicken the sauce?
    Simmer longer or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water).
  7. Can I make this ahead of time?
    Yes, store the cooked chicken and sauce separately, then reheat and combine before serving.
  8. Can I add other cheeses?
    Mozzarella, Gruyère, or Asiago cheese are great options to enhance the flavor.
  9. Is this recipe keto-friendly?
    Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs and perfect for a keto diet.
  10. What sides go best with this dish?
    Mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or crusty bread work wonderfully to soak up the creamy sauce.