Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Spinach is a rich, indulgent dish that combines juicy chicken breasts with a velvety, garlicky sauce and the goodness of fresh spinach. This dish is a perfect balance of savory flavors, creamy textures, and vibrant greens, making it an ideal weeknight dinner or a special meal for any occasion. Served over pasta, rice, or on its own, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you love a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful sauce, this recipe is a dream come true. The creamy garlic Parmesan sauce is rich and flavorful, perfectly complementing the tender, pan-seared chicken. The fresh spinach adds a pop of color and a nutritious boost, while the Parmesan adds a savory depth to every bite. It’s an easy-to-make dish that feels indulgent without being overly complicated, making it perfect for both busy nights and special dinners. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, which makes cleanup a breeze!

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Spinach

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
5 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 teaspoon dried basil (optional)
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Add the Cream and Broth: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 3-5 minutes, until the sauce starts to thicken.
Add Parmesan and Spinach: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add the chopped spinach, dried basil, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the spinach wilts and the sauce is well combined.
Return Chicken to the Skillet: Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over the chicken. Let it simmer for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb some of the creamy sauce.
Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve the creamy garlic Parmesan chicken over pasta, rice, or with a side of crusty bread.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms along with the garlic to add a rich, earthy flavor to the sauce.
Spicy Version: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give the sauce some extra heat.
Different Greens: If you’re not a fan of spinach, you can use kale or arugula as an alternative.
Low-Carb Option: Serve the chicken with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative to pasta or rice.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover creamy garlic Parmesan chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, but the sauce may separate slightly. Stir it well before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs would work great in this recipe. They’re more flavorful and juicy, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the thickness.

2. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free cream alternative, such as coconut cream or almond milk. Use a dairy-free Parmesan or nutritional yeast to replace the cheese.

3. Can I add pasta to this dish?

Absolutely! This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pairs wonderfully with pasta. Simply serve the chicken and sauce over your favorite type of pasta, like fettuccine or penne.

4. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftover chicken and sauce. Allow it to cool completely, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

5. Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Feel free to add other vegetables like sun-dried tomatoes, bell peppers, or even peas for extra flavor and nutrition.

6. How do I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer it for a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid, or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it.

7. Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?

For the best flavor and texture, it’s recommended to use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-grated cheese can sometimes make the sauce less smooth.

8. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stovetop before serving.

9. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check the labels of any pre-packaged ingredients like broth and cheese to ensure they’re gluten-free.

10. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes, or mix in some fresh chopped chili peppers to the sauce for a spicy kick.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Spinach is a delightful dish that combines savory chicken, a creamy sauce, and vibrant spinach in every bite. It’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and versatile enough to pair with your favorite sides. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. Enjoy the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and garlicky goodness in every bite!

Chef MARTHA