Creamy Spinach Chicken Dinner
This Creamy Spinach Chicken Dinner features tender pan-seared chicken in a rich parmesan cream sauce, complemented by fresh spinach for a comforting and healthy weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Seared Chicken
- 1 lb chicken breasts, skinless and boneless (2 large breasts, sliced horizontally)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Creamy Spinach Sauce
- 1.5 cups heavy cream
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese
- 4 cups fresh spinach
Garnish
- 3 tablespoons fresh thyme
Instructions
Preparation
- Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to create thin cutlets. Season with salt and pepper, then sprinkle with flour and coat both sides.
Cooking Chicken
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat for 2 minutes. Add olive oil, then place chicken in the pan. Cook for 5 minutes on the first side without moving for a deep golden sear.
- Flip the chicken, reduce heat to low-medium, and cook for 5 more minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Transfer chicken to a plate.
Making the Sauce
- In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and add minced garlic. Bring to a gentle boil, scraping up browned bits for extra flavor.
- Add shredded Parmesan and lower heat to medium-low. Stir for 2 to 4 minutes until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add fresh spinach and stir just until it begins to wilt and sink into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper if needed.
Assembly
- Return chicken to the pan, spooning sauce over the centers while leaving the edges golden for a pretty presentation.
- Finish with fresh thyme and a sprinkle of coarse black pepper.
Notes
Thin chicken cutlets cook faster and brown more beautifully. Use freshly shredded Parmesan for the smoothest, richest sauce. Swap spinach for kale or add sun-dried tomatoes for variety. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of cream or broth to loosen it. This dish pairs perfectly with pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.