This creamy spinach parmesan chicken breast is a real treat! Juicy chicken is smothered in a rich sauce with spinach and parmesan cheese. Yum!
You won’t believe how easy it is to make. A quick skillet meal that feels fancy enough for a special dinner. I often serve it with pasta or rice for a tasty combo!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep this dish lean and juicy. You can substitute with chicken thighs for more flavor and moisture if you prefer.
Heavy Cream: While heavy cream creates that rich texture, you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a lighter option. Just keep in mind the taste will vary slightly!
Parmesan Cheese: I love using fresh grated Parmesan for its flavor. If it’s not on hand, try Pecorino Romano or even a mix of shredded mozzarella as a substitute.
Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach is fantastic for this recipe, but you can use frozen spinach as well. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to the sauce.
Cherry Tomatoes: I often use fresh cherry tomatoes for their sweetness. If they’re out of season, sun-dried tomatoes are a great alternative too. They add a slightly tangy flavor.
How Do I Get Juicy Chicken Breasts?
Getting perfectly cooked chicken breasts is crucial for this dish. Here are some tips to ensure they’re juicy:
- Start by pounding the chicken to an even thickness. This helps them cook more evenly.
- Cook on medium heat. This allows the chicken to brown without burning while it cooks through.
- Use a meat thermometer! Chicken is done at 165°F (75°C). Once it reaches this temp, take it off the heat.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping them moist.
By following these tips and adjusting ingredients based on your pantry, you’ll create a delightful, creamy chicken dish that everyone will love. Happy cooking!
How to Make Creamy Spinach Parmesan Chicken Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, sliced or chopped sun-dried tomatoes
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil, oregano, and thyme)
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for mild heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing and seasoning the chicken, then around 20 minutes cooking everything together. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Chicken:
Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This adds flavor right from the start!
2. Cooking the Chicken:
Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You want them to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sautéing Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until you can smell its lovely aroma. Make sure not to let it burn!
4. Adding Tomatoes:
Now add the cherry tomatoes (or sun-dried tomatoes) to the skillet. Cook them for 1-2 minutes, just until they soften a bit.
5. Making the Creamy Sauce:
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat). Allow the sauce to simmer gently. Keep stirring occasionally until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens just a bit. This creamy goodness is what makes the dish special!
6. Adding Spinach:
Now it’s time to add the fresh spinach leaves to the sauce. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until the spinach is wilted and bright green.
7. Combining Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some sauce over them. Let everything simmer together for another 2-3 minutes, so the chicken absorbs all those wonderful flavors.
8. Garnishing and Serving:
Finally, garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot. This creamy spinach parmesan chicken breast goes great with pasta, rice, or some crusty bread. Enjoy!
With this easy recipe, you’re sure to impress your family and friends with a deliciously creamy and rich meal. Happy cooking!
FAQ for Creamy Spinach Parmesan Chicken Breast
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra flavor and moisture to the dish. Just be sure to cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are safe to eat.
Can I Make This Recipe without Heavy Cream?
Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk for a lighter version. Just keep in mind that the sauce may not be as rich and creamy, but it will still be delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little extra cream or broth if the sauce seems too thick.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add other veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just sauté them until tender before adding the cream and cheese for a colorful and nutritious twist!
