Skip to content 
Introduction
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Spinach is a delightful one-pot dish that combines rich flavors with easy preparation. This meal is perfect for busy weeknights and offers a comforting, satisfying experience. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and vibrant spinach makes it a family favorite.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Chicken breast – 1 pound, cut into bite-sized pieces
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
Spinach – 2 cups, fresh
Heavy cream – 1 cup
Grated Parmesan cheese – ½ cup
Chicken broth – ½ cup
Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon
Salt – to taste
Black pepper – to taste
Red pepper flakes – optional, for added heat
Prep Time
The preparation time for this recipe is approximately 10 minutes.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is around 20 minutes, bringing the total time to about 30 minutes. This recipe yields 4 servings, making it ideal for a small family or a cozy dinner with friends.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sautéing the Garlic
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3: Cooking the Spinach
Add baby spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Making the Creamy Sauce
Pour in chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Add heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Stir well until the cheese melts and the sauce is well combined.
Step 5: Combining Chicken and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over it. Let it simmer in the sauce for a couple of minutes to absorb flavors.
Step 6: Serving the Dish
Serve the creamy garlic Parmesan chicken warm, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and freshly ground black pepper, if desired.
Notes
Note 1: Chicken Options
You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier option.
Note 2: Parmesan Cheese
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is recommended for the best flavor and texture.
Note 3: Spinach Substitutes
If you do not have baby spinach, you can substitute it with kale or another leafy green.
Note 4: Storing Leftovers
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Note 5: Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is a cooking technique where ingredients are cooked in a small amount of oil or fat over relatively high heat. This method helps to develop flavors and create a slight caramelization on the surfaces of the ingredients, enhancing their overall taste.
Deglazing
Deglazing is the process of adding liquid to a hot pan to loosen and dissolve the browned bits of food stuck at the bottom. This technique is essential for building rich flavors in sauces and gravies.
Simmering
Simmering involves cooking food gently in liquid at a low temperature, just below boiling. This technique allows flavors to meld and ingredients to cook through without breaking apart.
Stirring
Stirring is a technique used to mix ingredients consistently, helping achieve even cooking and preventing them from sticking to the pan. It ensures that all components blend well together, especially when making sauces.
Incorporating Spinach
Incorporating spinach into dishes at the end of cooking ensures that it wilts nicely without losing its vibrant color and nutrients. This technique also adds a fresh flavor and enhances the dish’s nutritional value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can substitute it with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time and reheat it. Be mindful that spinach may lose some texture upon reheating.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken works well for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator for several days.
What herbs can I add for extra flavor?
You can add herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning to enhance the flavor of the dish even further.
Conclusion
The Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Spinach is a delightful and satisfying one-pot meal that combines rich flavors with wholesome ingredients. Its simplicity in preparation and clean-up makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknight dinners. The creamy sauce, combined with tender chicken and nutritious spinach, ensures a balanced and flavorful dish that everyone will enjoy.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken Alfredo Pasta
A classic dish featuring tender chicken tossed in creamy Alfredo sauce with fettuccine pasta.
Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli
Delicious shrimp stir-fried in garlic butter paired with crispy broccoli for a quick and healthy meal.
Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Chicken
Chicken breasts stuffed with a creamy mixture of spinach and artichokes, baked until golden and bubbling.
Mushroom Risotto
A creamy Italian rice dish cooked slowly with mushrooms and Parmesan, perfect for a comforting dinner.
Pesto Zucchini Noodles with Chicken
Zucchini noodles tossed with pesto and grilled chicken for a low-carb meal bursting with flavor.
Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet
Chicken cooked with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach in a tangy cream sauce, served over rice or pasta.
One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and Asparagus
Juicy chicken and tender asparagus tossed in lemon and herbs for a simple yet flavorful dish.
