Creamy Spinach Chicken Recipe

Creamy Spinach Chicken Recipe is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender chicken breasts, luscious spinach, and a rich, velvety sauce that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare. In just 35 minutes from start to finish, you can serve a restaurant-quality dish that fits weeknight meals and special occasions alike. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort. It’s the perfect answer to “what’s for dinner?” when you’re in the mood for something rich, savory, and irresistibly delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Spinach Chicken Recipe

This dish packs a serious punch when it comes to flavor and nutritional value. The juicy, pan-seared chicken soaks up the creamy, garlicky sauce perfectly. Spinach adds a boost of vitamins and a touch of color, while the subtle heat from red pepper flakes brings balance. It’s easy to customize, quick to prepare, and goes great over pasta or rice, making it a complete, hearty meal. Even better, you only need one skillet, making cleanup a breeze!

Ingredients

• 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 1 pound thin-cut boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3 pieces)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 5 ounces baby spinach (about 5 packed cups)
• Cooked pasta or steamed rice, for serving

Step-by-Step: How to Make Creamy Spinach Chicken

1. Thinly slice the onion and finely mince the garlic.
2. Dry the chicken breasts with paper towels, season them with salt and pepper, and dust each piece lightly with flour. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Sear the chicken in batches for about 1.5 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate.
4. In a bowl, whisk together the broth, heavy cream, sour cream, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt.
5. Using the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the onions until soft and lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
6. Stir in the garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant.
7. Pour in the cream mixture and stir. Allow the sauce to reduce and thicken slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
8. Gradually fold in the spinach until wilted. Return the chicken and any juices to the skillet. Cook another 4-5 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and well coated in sauce.
9. Serve hot over your choice of pasta or rice.

Helpful Tips

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to 165°F.
• Avoid overcrowding the skillet to get an even sear on the chicken.
• Add spinach in portions to help it cook down more easily.
• For a thicker sauce, simmer a few extra minutes or mix in a bit of cornstarch slurry.

Substitutions And Variations

• Protein Swap: Substitute shrimp or tofu for a pescatarian or vegetarian version.
• Creamy Base Alternatives: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangier taste.
• Low-Carb Option: Pair with cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini.
• Cheesy Add-On: Stir in Parmesan or mozzarella for extra richness.
• More Greens: Mix in kale or arugula for added texture and nutrients.

Storage Instructions

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to refresh the sauce.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (based on 4 servings):
Calories: ~370
Protein: 30g
Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
(Note: Exact values may vary based on portion size and specific ingredients.)

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy over fettuccine, penne, or hearty brown rice.
• Pair with a crisp garden salad or your favorite roasted vegetables.
• Add a slice of garlic bread or warm rolls to round out the meal.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Spinach Chicken

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely, just thaw it first and press out any extra liquid to avoid watering down the sauce.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Use coconut cream and a plant-based sour cream alternative.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It stores well in the fridge and reheats easily with a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.

Is it gluten-free?
Yes, just substitute the flour with a gluten-free variety and confirm that all other ingredients meet gluten-free standards.

What other vegetables can I add?
Mushrooms, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes are great additions for extra flavor and color.

Conclusion

Thank you for stopping by to explore this Creamy Spinach Chicken recipe! It’s one of those meals that’s as comforting as it is delicious, with a creamy sauce that hugs every bite of chicken and spinach. This dish brings a smile to our family table every time, and I hope it becomes a favorite in your home too. Whether you’re serving it over pasta or spooning it onto fluffy rice, it’s a winning recipe that delivers every time. Happy cooking, and thank you for being part of our food-loving community!