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
Scale
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.
