This creamy spinach chicken dish is a real treat! Tender chicken is cooked with delicious spinach and smothered in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s both hearty and comforting!
I love making this for dinner on busy nights. It cooks up quickly and pairs perfectly with rice or pasta. Plus, who doesn’t like sneaking in some greens? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts make this dish easy and quick. If you prefer, you can substitute with thighs for a juicier option or even use tofu for a vegetarian version.
Fresh Spinach: I love using fresh spinach, but you can also use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before using. It’s a real time-saver!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can swap heavy cream with half-and-half or evaporated milk. Coconut milk is great too for a non-dairy alternative, giving a subtle flavor twist.
Parmesan Cheese: While Parmesan adds a rich flavor, you can substitute it with Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a vegan option. Just keep in mind that the taste will change slightly.
How Do You Achieve That Perfectly Creamy Sauce?
The key to a smooth and creamy sauce lies in the simmering process. After adding the heavy cream and chicken broth, don’t rush this step. Let it simmer gently so it can thicken and allow the flavors to meld together.
- Stir constantly while the sauce simmers to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- When adding the Parmesan cheese, remove the skillet from the heat. This helps the cheese melt smoothly without clumping.
- Adjust the seasoning towards the end. A little extra salt or pepper can elevate the flavor beautifully.
Enjoy your cooking experience with this creamy spinach chicken! It’s a real crowd-pleaser.
How to Make Creamy Spinach Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh herbs or microgreens for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy spinach chicken dish takes about 15 minutes for preparation and about 20 minutes for cooking, bringing the total time to about 35 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure to coat them evenly on both sides for the best flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes soft. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until it gets fragrant.
4. Add the Spinach:
Fold in the chopped spinach and cook for about 2-3 minutes until it wilts down. This will add a lovely vibrant color and flavor to your dish!
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring everything together. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3-4 minutes until it starts to thicken up a bit.
6. Add the Cheese:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring it melts smoothly into the sauce. This will create a rich, creamy texture. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if you like a little kick.
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon the creamy spinach sauce over them, ensuring the chicken is nicely coated. Let everything simmer together for an additional 2-3 minutes for the flavors to meld.
8. Serve and Garnish:
Once done, garnish your dish with fresh herbs or microgreens if desired. Serve hot alongside rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta for a truly satisfying meal!
Enjoy every delicious bite of your creamy spinach chicken!
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach! Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the skillet. If using it directly from frozen, cook it longer to ensure it’s heated through and the moisture evaporates.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! For a dairy-free version, you can replace the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for added flavor. This keeps it creamy while being plant-based!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to help loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
What Sides Pair Well with Creamy Spinach Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or even pasta. You could also serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a lighter option!
