Looking for a comforting, rich, and easy-to-make dinner? This Creamy Garlic Chicken with Spinach is the perfect answer! Tender, juicy chicken breasts simmered in a luscious garlic cream sauce with fresh spinach make this dish an irresistible weeknight option. The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with the chicken, and the addition of spinach adds a nutritious boost. This one-pan recipe not only simplifies cooking but also leaves you with fewer dishes to clean up afterward!
Benefits of Creamy Garlic Chicken with Fresh Spinach:
- Protein-packed: Lean chicken breast provides a high-protein, low-fat option, making this meal both filling and healthy.
- Nutrient-dense: Spinach adds essential vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants to the dish, enhancing its nutritional value.
- One-pan convenience: Cook everything in one skillet, making this dish ideal for busy weeknights.
- Decadent flavor: The creamy garlic sauce is rich, flavorful, and perfect for serving over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Creamy Garlic Chicken with Spinach
Ingredients:
| For the Chicken: ✦ 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts ✦ 2 tablespoons olive oil ✦ 4 cloves garlic, minced ✦ 1 cup chicken broth ✦ 1 cup heavy cream ✦ 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese ✦ 2 cups fresh spinach ✦ 1 teaspoon dried thyme ✦ 1 teaspoon dried basil ✦ Salt and pepper to taste | |
| For the Garnish (Optional): ✦ Fresh parsley, chopped ✦ Extra Parmesan cheese |
Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, thyme, and basil on both sides. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the broth to a simmer, then reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 3: Add the Spinach
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the fresh spinach. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and is well combined with the sauce.
Step 4: Return the Chicken to the Skillet
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy garlic sauce over the top. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat the chicken through and allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Serve
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan, if desired. Serve the Creamy Garlic Chicken with Spinach over pasta, rice, or alongside roasted vegetables. Enjoy the comforting flavors of this rich and creamy dish!
Nutrition Facts: (per serving)
| 480 | 32g | 6g | 36g |
| Calories | Fat | Carbs | Protein |
View Full Nutrition Label:
| Total Fat: 32g | 49% |
| Saturated Fat: 18g | 90% |
| Sodium: 580mg | 24% |
| Total Carbohydrate: 6g | 2% |
| Dietary Fiber: 2g | 8% |
| Total Sugars: 2g | |
| Protein: 36g | 72% |
| Calcium: 200mg | 20% |
| Iron: 2mg | 11% |
| Potassium: 700mg | 20% |
Cook’s Note:
For a lower-calorie version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or light cream. Additionally, using reduced-fat Parmesan cheese can help reduce the fat content without sacrificing flavor.
Tips:
- To ensure even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before searing them.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up to your desired consistency.
- For extra flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the sauce before serving.
This Creamy Garlic Chicken with Spinach recipe offers a rich and flavorful meal that’s quick to prepare, making it a fantastic option for any night of the week!
