Creamy Chicken with Spinach & Parmesan

For a nutritious yet indulgent meal, this Chicken with Spinach & Parmesan recipe hits all the right notes. It’s packed with protein, rich in spinach, and finished with a generous sprinkling of Parmesan cheese for a dish that’s as healthy as it is delicious. Best of all, it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love Chicken with Spinach & Parmesan

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, ready in just 30 minutes.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Loaded with spinach, this dish is high in vitamins and minerals.
• Cheesy Goodness: Parmesan adds a rich, savory flavor that makes this dish truly satisfying.

Key Ingredients

To make Chicken with Spinach & Parmesan, you’ll need:

For the Chicken:

• Chicken Breasts: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons.
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced.
• Spinach: 4 cups fresh spinach (about 1 large bunch).
• Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, freshly grated.
• Heavy Cream: ½ cup (optional for extra creaminess).
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.

Optional:

• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For a touch of heat.
• Lemon Juice: To add a fresh, zesty finish.

How to Make Chicken with Spinach & Parmesan

1. Cook the Chicken

• Heat Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil.
• Season and Sear: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and sear them in the skillet for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

2. Cook the Spinach

• Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
• Add the Spinach: Add the spinach to the skillet, cooking until wilted (about 2-3 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if desired.

3. Combine and Serve

• Finish the Dish: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, nestling it in with the spinach. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top and drizzle with heavy cream if you’re adding it.
• Melt the Cheese: Cover the skillet and let the cheese melt for about 2 minutes.
• Serve: Garnish with a squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh, zesty flavor.

Tips for the Best Chicken with Spinach & Parmesan

• Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach works best for this dish, but you can use frozen spinach if needed. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the skillet.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Sear the chicken breasts until golden but still juicy. Overcooking can dry them out.
• Add Creaminess: If you prefer a richer sauce, stir in some heavy cream for a more indulgent dish.

Variations of Chicken with Spinach & Parmesan

1. Creamy Chicken with Spinach

For a creamier dish, add 1 cup of heavy cream and a bit more Parmesan cheese to the skillet, creating a rich sauce for the chicken and spinach.

2. Chicken Florentine

Add mushrooms and a dash of white wine to the spinach for a more traditional Chicken Florentine twist.

3. Low-Carb Version

Skip the cream to keep the dish light and low-carb while still enjoying the rich Parmesan flavor.

Health Benefits

• Rich in Protein: Chicken is a lean source of protein, perfect for muscle repair and growth.
• Spinach Power: Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, spinach offers a wealth of nutrients.
• Calcium Boost: Parmesan cheese adds not only flavor but also a good dose of calcium for healthy bones.

FAQs About Chicken with Spinach & Parmesan

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach if fresh isn’t available. Just thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture before adding it to the skillet.

How long will leftovers last?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I use other cheeses?

Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with other cheeses like mozzarella or Romano, though Parmesan works best for its nutty, savory flavor.

Conclusion

This Chicken with Spinach & Parmesan recipe is a perfect balance of healthy and indulgent. With its tender chicken, nutrient-rich spinach, and savory Parmesan topping, it’s a meal that satisfies both your taste buds and your nutritional needs. Try pairing it with a light salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. For more hearty chicken recipes, check out Creamy Chicken Alfredo Penne with Herbs or dive into Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine for another delicious dinner idea!