Creamy Garlic Chicken & Spinach

Weeknights in our house can be a whirlwind. Between school pickups, after-school activities, and just general end-of-day exhaustion, the last thing I want to do is spend hours slaving away in the kitchen. That’s why recipes that are both quick and genuinely delicious are absolute lifesavers. And let me tell you, this Creamy Garlic Chicken and Spinach recipe? It’s become a regular rotation meal for us. From the moment the garlic hits the pan and that irresistible aroma fills the kitchen, everyone starts getting excited. Even my picky eaters, who sometimes view vegetables with suspicion, gobble up the spinach in this creamy sauce! The chicken is tender and juicy, the sauce is rich and flavorful without being heavy, and the spinach adds a lovely freshness and a boost of nutrients. Honestly, it’s a dish that ticks all the boxes: easy to make, packed with flavor, and loved by the whole family. If you’re looking for a comforting and satisfying meal that doesn’t require fancy ingredients or complicated techniques, you absolutely have to try this recipe. Trust me, you’ll be making it again and again!

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Chicken & Spinach

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this incredibly flavorful and satisfying Creamy Garlic Chicken and Spinach dish. We’ve kept the ingredient list simple and accessible, so you can easily whip this up any night of the week.

• Chicken Breast: 1.5 lbs, boneless, skinless chicken breasts. The star of the dish, providing lean protein and a tender bite.
• Fresh Spinach: 10 oz, baby spinach. Adds a vibrant green color, earthy flavor, and a healthy dose of vitamins.
• Heavy Cream: 1 cup. The key to the creamy richness of the sauce, creating a luxurious texture.
• Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup. Adds depth of flavor and helps to thin the sauce to the perfect consistency. Low sodium is recommended to control salt levels.
• Garlic: 6 cloves, minced. The aromatic backbone of the recipe, providing that signature garlic flavor. Freshly minced is always best for the most potent flavor.
• Yellow Onion: 1 medium, chopped. Adds sweetness and savory depth to the base of the sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, grated. Contributes a salty, nutty flavor and helps to thicken the sauce. Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. Used for sautéing the chicken and vegetables, providing a healthy fat base. Extra virgin olive oil adds a richer flavor.
• Butter: 2 tablespoons. Adds richness and enhances the flavor of the sauce. Unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness.
• Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon. A blend of dried herbs that adds a classic Italian flavor profile.
• Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (optional). Adds a subtle kick of heat, balancing the richness of the cream. Adjust to your spice preference.
• Salt: To taste. Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors. Kosher salt is recommended for its consistent grain size.
• Black Pepper: To taste. Adds a touch of spice and depth to the overall flavor. Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred.

Instructions: Making Creamy Garlic Chicken & Spinach

Follow these simple step-by-step instructions to create your own delicious Creamy Garlic Chicken and Spinach. This recipe is designed to be easy and efficient, perfect for busy weeknights.

1. Prepare the Chicken: Begin by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them to brown nicely. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning (about ½ teaspoon).
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot and the butter is melted, carefully add the chicken breasts. Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate, tenting it with foil to keep warm.
3. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute, until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Create the Cream Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom – these bits are packed with flavor! Let the broth simmer for a minute or two. Then, pour in the heavy cream and stir well to combine with the broth and onion mixture.
5. Simmer and Thicken: Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 3-5 minutes, allowing it to slightly thicken. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Add Parmesan and Spinach: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and the remaining ½ teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Continue stirring until the Parmesan is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add the fresh spinach to the skillet, a handful at a time, stirring until it wilts down into the sauce. This will only take a minute or two.
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy spinach sauce. Spoon the sauce over the chicken to coat it evenly.
8. Final Simmer and Serve: Let everything simmer together for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to reheat through. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
9. Serve Hot: Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley (optional), if desired. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Garlic Chicken and Spinach!

Nutrition Facts for Creamy Garlic Chicken & Spinach

This Creamy Garlic Chicken and Spinach recipe is not only delicious but also provides a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins. Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional information per serving to help you understand what you’re enjoying.

• Servings: 4. This recipe is designed to comfortably serve four people, making it perfect for a family dinner. Serving sizes can be adjusted based on individual appetite.
• Calories per serving: Approximately 550-650 kcal. Provides a substantial and satisfying meal, with calorie count varying slightly based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
• Protein: 45-55g. Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, crucial for muscle building and satiety, helping you feel full and satisfied after your meal.
• Fat: 35-45g. Includes healthy fats from olive oil and butter, as well as fats from heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, contributing to flavor and satiety. Fats are essential for nutrient absorption and hormone production.
• Iron: 2-3mg. Spinach is a good source of iron, an essential mineral for carrying oxygen throughout the body and maintaining energy levels.

Please note: These nutrition facts are estimates and can vary depending on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with the exact brands and quantities of ingredients you use.

Preparation Time for Creamy Garlic Chicken & Spinach

One of the best things about this Creamy Garlic Chicken and Spinach recipe is its speed and simplicity. From start to finish, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table in under 30 minutes!

• Prep Time: 10 minutes. This includes chopping the onion, mincing the garlic, and seasoning the chicken. Efficient chopping and organized mise en place can further reduce prep time.
• Cook Time: 20 minutes. This covers searing the chicken, sautéing the aromatics, creating the sauce, and simmering everything together. The quick cooking time makes it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Total Time: 30 minutes. In just half an hour, you can have a restaurant-quality meal that’s homemade and healthy. Perfect for busy schedules and last-minute dinner plans.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken & Spinach

Creamy Garlic Chicken and Spinach is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to create a complete and satisfying meal:

• Over Grains:
  • Pasta: Serve over your favorite pasta shapes like fettuccine, spaghetti, penne, or linguine. The creamy sauce coats the pasta perfectly.
  • Rice: Fluffy white rice, brown rice, or even wild rice are excellent choices to soak up the delicious sauce.
  • Quinoa: For a healthier option, quinoa provides a nutty flavor and added protein.
  • Polenta: Creamy polenta offers a comforting and flavorful base for the chicken and spinach.
• With Bread:
  • Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread like baguette or sourdough for dipping into the creamy sauce.
  • Garlic Bread: Enhance the garlic flavors with a side of warm garlic bread.
  • Breadsticks: Simple breadsticks are great for scooping up the sauce and chicken.
• Alongside Vegetables:
  • Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts complement the richness of the dish and add extra nutrients.
  • Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed green beans or broccoli provide a fresh and healthy side.
  • Side Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy chicken.
• Potato Options:
  • Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing that adds extra comfort to the meal.
  • Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes provide a textural contrast and satisfying starch.
  • Sweet Potato Fries: For a slightly sweeter and more fun side, try sweet potato fries.

Additional Tips for Perfect Creamy Garlic Chicken & Spinach

Want to take your Creamy Garlic Chicken and Spinach to the next level? Here are eight helpful tips and tricks to ensure your dish is absolutely perfect every time:

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When searing the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Overcrowding will steam the chicken instead of searing it, preventing it from getting that beautiful golden-brown crust. Cook in batches if necessary.
2. Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides the best and most potent garlic flavor for this dish. Garlic powder can be used in a pinch, but fresh garlic truly elevates the flavor.
3. Wilt Spinach Gradually: Add the spinach to the skillet in batches, allowing each handful to wilt down before adding more. This ensures even cooking and prevents the skillet from becoming overcrowded with spinach.
4. Control the Heat: Keep the heat at medium-high for searing the chicken and medium for sautéing the aromatics and simmering the sauce. Avoid high heat when making the cream sauce as it can cause the cream to curdle or burn.
5. Adjust Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a little more chicken broth or even a splash of milk. For a thicker sauce, simmer it for a bit longer to allow it to reduce, or add a teaspoon of cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with cold water).
6. Spice it Up: If you like a bit more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce. You can also use a spicy Italian sausage instead of chicken for a different flavor profile with a kick.
7. Add a Touch of Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens the flavors and adds a touch of acidity that balances the richness of the cream sauce.
8. Make it Ahead: While best served fresh, you can prepare the Creamy Garlic Chicken and Spinach ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Creamy Garlic Chicken & Spinach

Got questions about making Creamy Garlic Chicken and Spinach? We’ve got answers! Here are some frequently asked questions to help you succeed in making this delicious dish.

Q1: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
A: Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Thaw it completely and squeeze out as much excess water as possible before adding it to the sauce. Fresh spinach is preferred for texture and freshness, but frozen spinach is a convenient alternative.

Q2: Can I substitute the heavy cream with something lighter?
A: For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even evaporated milk. However, the sauce will be less rich and creamy compared to using heavy cream. For the best creamy texture, heavy cream is recommended.

Q3: I don’t have Parmesan cheese. Can I use another cheese?
A: Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with other hard Italian cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano. For a milder flavor, you could use Asiago or even a blend of mozzarella and a hard cheese.

Q4: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A: To make this recipe dairy-free, you can substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk (the canned kind, not the beverage). Use a dairy-free Parmesan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Ensure your butter substitute is also dairy-free.

Q5: Can I add other vegetables besides spinach?
A: Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, bell peppers, or asparagus to this dish. Sauté them along with the onions and garlic for added flavor and nutrients.

Q6: How do I prevent the cream sauce from curdling?
A: To prevent curdling, avoid bringing the cream sauce to a rapid boil. Simmer it gently over medium-low heat. Adding the Parmesan cheese gradually and stirring constantly also helps to stabilize the sauce.

Q7: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Chicken thighs are more flavorful and stay moist during cooking. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs can take a bit longer to cook through than breasts.

Q8: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A: Store leftover Creamy Garlic Chicken and Spinach in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce during reheating.

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