Indulge in the rich, savory flavors of creamy garlic skillet chicken with spinach, a quick and satisfying one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights or an elegant dinner. Juicy chicken breasts are seared to perfection, then simmered in a luscious garlic cream sauce with tender spinach, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or a slice of crusty bread to soak up the creamy goodness.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes. Stir until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Spinach & Chicken:
- Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
- Return the seared chicken to the skillet, coating it in the sauce. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Variations
- Mushroom Addition: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Mix in ½ cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute coconut milk for heavy cream and nutritional yeast for Parmesan.
Cooking Notes
- Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer until it reaches the desired consistency.
- Garlic Intensity: Adjust the amount of garlic to your preference for a milder or stronger flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
- Pair with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for added flair.
Tips
- Make Ahead: You can prep the chicken and sauce separately ahead of time and combine them just before serving.
- Reheating: Warm leftovers over low heat to prevent the sauce from breaking.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 430
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Sodium: 550mg
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach?
A: Yes! Thaw and drain the spinach thoroughly before adding it to the sauce to avoid excess water.
Can I substitute chicken thighs?
A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer more flavor and stay juicier, making them a great alternative to chicken breasts.
How can I make this dish low-carb?
A: Skip the pasta and serve the creamy garlic chicken with cauliflower rice or zoodles for a low-carb option.
Conclusion
Creamy garlic skillet chicken with spinach is a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this one-pan recipe is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.