If you’re craving a dish that is cozy, flavorful, and packed with wholesome greens, then this Creamy Chicken with Spinach Dinner Recipe is going to become your new weeknight hero. Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts bathed in a luscious, velvety sauce balanced perfectly with fresh spinach and a hint of herbs. This recipe combines comforting creaminess with bright, vibrant greens, delivering a meal that feels indulgent yet nourishing. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this dish promises to be a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the first step toward a dinner that’s bursting with color, texture, and flavor. Each component plays a special role: the fresh spinach adds a vibrant green freshness, the cream creates a dreamy, rich sauce, and the herbs introduce subtle aromatic notes that lift the whole dish.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, easy to cook and perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps achieve a lovely golden sear on the chicken while adding a hint of fruity richness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Basic but necessary for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic depth and a slight kick.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Provides a savory base to build the creamy sauce without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version): Creates a silky, rich texture that envelops every bite.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional): Adds a gentle tang and complexity to the sauce.
- 2 cups fresh spinach (or more for extra greens): Offers vibrant color, a mild earthy flavor, and nutrients.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: A hint of earthiness and warmth that pairs beautifully with chicken.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a herbal, slightly sweet aroma.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, umami-packed finish to the creamy sauce.
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional): A pop of green freshness to brighten the presentation.
How to Make Creamy Chicken with Spinach Dinner Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Start by patting your chicken breasts dry and seasoning them generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the chicken. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. This step creates a flavorful crust that locks in juicy tenderness, which is the foundation of this Creamy Chicken with Spinach Dinner Recipe.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Once the chicken is cooked and removed from the skillet, add the minced garlic to the same pan. Let it cook for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. This gentle sauté of garlic forms the base of your sauce, infusing it with mouthwatering savoriness.
Step 3: Wilt the Spinach
Toss in the fresh spinach and stir gently until it wilts, about 2 minutes. The spinach softens, releasing moisture that will mingle with the sauce, while also adding a fresh pop of green and delicate flavor to balance the richness of the cream.
Step 4: Create and Simmer the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream (and gingerly stir in the optional Dijon mustard), scraping up any browned bits from the skillet. Sprinkle in the dried thyme, basil, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until the cheese melts into a smooth, luscious sauce. Return the chicken breasts back to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce mixture. Spoon some sauce and spinach over the chicken, then let everything simmer for another 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken with Spinach Dinner Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds a bright herbal note and a cheerful dash of color that makes the dish feel even more inviting. For an extra touch, a light dusting of grated Parmesan just before serving intensifies the umami goodness.
Side Dishes
This creamy chicken pairs wonderfully with simple sides like garlic mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or buttery noodles — these help soak up every bit of that luxurious sauce. Roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad can complement the richness with a refreshing crunch and variety.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual but classy presentation, serve the chicken on a large platter with the creamy spinach sauce drizzled over the top and some extra sauce on the side. Alternatively, plate each chicken breast individually, garnishing delicately with parsley and a wedge of lemon to brighten the flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover creamy chicken and spinach in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for quick lunches or dinner on busy nights.
Freezing
This Creamy Chicken with Spinach Dinner Recipe freezes well. Cool leftovers completely before freezing in a sealed container or freezer bag. For best quality, consume within 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream sauce from separating. You can also microwave it covered in short intervals, stirring halfway through to keep it smooth and creamy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach, but be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding it to avoid watery sauce. Fresh spinach will give the best texture and flavor though.
Is there a lighter version of this Creamy Chicken with Spinach Dinner Recipe?
Absolutely! Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a mix of milk and Greek yogurt to lighten the sauce while keeping some creaminess. Just avoid boiling it hard to prevent curdling.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Chicken thighs are a great alternative and often more forgiving in cooking for juicy results. Just adjust cooking time as thighs may need a bit longer to cook through.
What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
Grated Asiago or Pecorino Romano cheeses work well as substitutes, each bringing their own unique sharpness to deepen the sauce’s flavor.
How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Try adding mushrooms along with garlic, or stir in some sun-dried tomatoes or bell peppers before the cream for extra color, texture, and brightness.
Final Thoughts
There’s something deeply satisfying about a dish that feels elegant yet comes together with such ease, which perfectly describes this Creamy Chicken with Spinach Dinner Recipe. It’s a versatile, comforting meal that brings warmth to the table and joy to those who eat it. Give it a try tonight, and I promise you’ll have a new favorite in your recipe rotation that’s sure to impress.
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Creamy Chicken with Spinach Dinner Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
A delightful and easy-to-make creamy chicken with spinach dinner recipe that combines tender chicken breasts simmered in a flavorful garlic cream sauce with fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal that comes together quickly and is packed with rich taste and greens.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce and Vegetables
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 2 cups fresh spinach (or more for extra greens)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Season and Cook Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken breasts until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Wilt Spinach: Add fresh spinach to the skillet and cook while stirring until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Prepare Creamy Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream (and Dijon mustard if using). Stir in dried thyme, dried basil, and grated Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer gently for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
- Combine and Simmer: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon some of the creamy sauce and spinach mixture over the chicken, and continue to simmer for 2-3 minutes to heat through and allow the flavors to meld.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally garnish with fresh parsley. Serve the creamy chicken and spinach hot, perfect with a side of rice, pasta, or crusty bread.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half.
- Dijon mustard adds a nice tang but can be omitted if preferred.
- Adding extra spinach greens increases the nutritional value and volume.
- Ensure chicken is fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- This dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes.
