This creamy spinach parmesan chicken is a treat for any day! With juicy chicken breasts smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce, it’s comfort food at its best.
I love how easy it is to whip up! Just cook the chicken, add the creamy mix, and in no time, dinner is served. Perfect for impressing friends or just treating yourself! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts create a juicy base for this dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using turkey breasts instead. They work well and have a similar flavor.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creamy texture. If you’re aiming for a lower fat version, you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk, although that will change the flavor slightly.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a savory depth. If you don’t have it, try Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a similar taste. For a vegan option, use nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor.
Fresh Spinach: It wilts beautifully, adding freshness and nutrition. Kale or Swiss chard can be great substitutes if spinach is unavailable.
How Do You Achieve a Perfectly Creamy Sauce?
Creating the sauce is the heart of this dish. After cooking the chicken, using the same skillet ensures you capture all those delicious flavors left behind. Here’s how to do it!
- After removing the chicken, add minced garlic to the leftover oil. Sauté for just a minute to prevent burning.
- Pour in the heavy cream gradually while stirring, then mix in the chicken broth. This forms the sauce base.
- As you stir in the Parmesan, be mindful of the heat. Keep it low so the cheese melts beautifully without clumping.
- Finally, add spinach and let it wilt directly in the sauce for that lovely creamy finish.
How to Make Creamy Spinach Parmesan Chicken Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 3 cups fresh spinach leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total! You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and seasoning the chicken and around 20 minutes cooking the chicken and making the sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple step adds a lot of flavor to your dish!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Make sure it’s cooked all the way to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
3. Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant but not browned. This will add a delicious garlic flavor to your sauce!
4. Add the Cream and Broth:
Now, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir gently to combine both liquids; the mixture will begin to thicken.
5. Incorporate the Cheese and Seasonings:
Next, add the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Stir the mixture continuously until the cheese melts and creates a creamy sauce.
6. Add Spinach:
Take the fresh spinach and add it to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring gently until the spinach wilts and blends with the sauce.
7. Combine and Simmer:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon the creamy spinach sauce over the chicken. Let it simmer together for another 2-3 minutes to heat everything through and meld the flavors.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your creamy spinach parmesan chicken breasts are ready! Serve them hot, generously spooning extra sauce over the chicken. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Creamy Spinach Parmesan Chicken Breast
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. It’s best to thaw overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method for quicker results. Pat them dry before seasoning to avoid excess moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of cornstarch for thickness. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut milk or almond milk with a little corn starch can also work, although it will slightly alter the flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce creamy.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! You can add mushrooms, bell peppers, or even sun-dried tomatoes for additional flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the garlic before adding the cream and broth.
