When it comes to simple yet flavorful weeknight dinners, this creamy garlic skillet chicken with spinach is a game-changer. This one-pan dish delivers juicy chicken smothered in a luscious garlic cream sauce with tender spinach for a perfect balance of comfort and nutrition. With just a few staple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a satisfying meal that feels fancy without the fuss.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to even thickness)
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Spinach:
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Preparation
Prepare and Season the Chicken
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
- Season both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Sear the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5–6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove the chicken and set aside.
Sauté the Garlic and Spinach
- Lower the heat to medium, add a splash of olive oil if needed, and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2–3 minutes. Transfer the spinach to a plate.
Make the Cream Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the butter and stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese. Whisk until smooth.
- Add Italian seasoning, and adjust salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Combine and Finish
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning sauce over the top.
- Add the sautéed spinach back into the pan, tucking it around the chicken.
- Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the chicken is warmed through and well-coated in sauce.
Variations
- Keto-Friendly Option: Use full-fat cream and serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
- Mushroom Twist: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms when sautéing the garlic.
- Herbaceous Touch: Incorporate fresh basil or parsley into the sauce for added aroma.
Cooking Note
- Thickening the Sauce: If the sauce is too thin, whisk in 1 teaspoon of cornstarch dissolved in 2 tablespoons of water.
- Pounding the Chicken: Ensures even cooking, preventing overdone edges and undercooked centers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy garlic skillet chicken with:
- Fluffy mashed potatoes
- Buttered noodles
- Crusty bread to mop up the sauce
- A simple green salad for a lighter side
Tips
- Always use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of garlic to your preference; roasted garlic also works well for a sweeter, mellow taste.
- To save time, prep ingredients like spinach and garlic while the chicken cooks.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 410
- Protein: 36g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Sodium: 490mg
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach?
A: Yes, thaw the spinach and squeeze out excess water before adding it to the skillet.
Can I substitute the heavy cream?
A: Half-and-half or coconut cream are excellent substitutes for a lighter or dairy-free option.
How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to prevent the sauce from separating.
Conclusion
Creamy garlic skillet chicken with spinach is a winning recipe that combines rich flavors with an effortless preparation process. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is bound to impress. Try it today and enjoy the hearty goodness of a meal that’s as easy as it is delicious!