Easy & Delicious Creamy Spinach Chicken: Your Go-To Weeknight Dinner
There are some days when a specific craving hits, and for me, it was that rich, comforting taste of creamed spinach. Luckily, I also had some chicken breasts in the fridge, and that’s how this absolutely irresistible Creamy Spinach Chicken recipe was born. It’s incredibly creamy, packed with flavor, and so satisfying that it easily stands alone as a complete meal. Forget complicated side dishes – this dish is a superstar all on its own, perfect for a cozy weeknight or an impressive yet easy dinner party.
While I opted for the distinctive tang of Gorgonzola cheese to elevate my creamy sauce, this recipe is wonderfully adaptable. If you’re looking for a milder flavor, cream cheese offers a smooth, rich texture, or fresh mozzarella can provide a delightful stretchiness and a more subtle cheesy note. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility and how easily it can be tailored to your taste preferences.
Perfectly Cooked Chicken for an Unforgettable Meal
When it comes to the chicken, I have a strong preference for cooking it separately before incorporating it into the sauce. The thought of adding raw chicken directly to a prepared sauce and letting it cook through just doesn’t sit right with me. I believe a beautifully seared or roasted piece of chicken truly enhances the overall experience of the dish. It allows the chicken to develop a gorgeous golden-brown (or even reddish, as I often like to season with chili powder!) crust, locking in its juices and adding an extra layer of flavor and texture that you simply can’t achieve by poaching it directly in the sauce. Pan-searing ensures a tender, juicy interior and that appealing caramelized exterior we all love.
My go-to seasoning for chicken is a simple yet effective blend of salt, black pepper, and chili powder. Don’t be surprised if you see a slight reddish hue on my chicken in photos – that’s the chili powder doing its magic! This seasoning not only adds a lovely color but also a subtle warmth that complements the creamy spinach sauce without overpowering it. If you’re not a fan of spice, feel free to omit the chili powder or swap it for paprika for color without the heat.
Elevating Your Creamy Spinach Chicken: Customization & Add-Ins
While the basic combination of creamy spinach and chicken is divine, there’s always room to experiment and make the dish truly your own. On this particular occasion, I didn’t have them on hand, but mushrooms and artichoke hearts would be absolutely phenomenal additions. Sautéed mushrooms add an earthy depth, while tender artichoke hearts introduce a delicate tang that cuts through the richness of the cream sauce. Consider these fantastic optional additions for an even more complex flavor profile:
- Mushrooms: Sliced cremini or button mushrooms sautéed until golden before adding to the sauce will add an incredible umami flavor.
- Artichoke Hearts: Canned or jarred artichoke hearts, drained and roughly chopped, are a fantastic way to introduce a slightly tangy, savory element.
- Sun-dried Tomatoes: A few finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed are best) can infuse the sauce with a sweet, concentrated tomato flavor.
- Roasted Red Peppers: Sliced roasted red peppers offer a smoky sweetness and a pop of color.
- Herbs: Fresh thyme or a sprinkle of dried Italian herbs can enhance the aromatic qualities of the sauce.
- Different Cheeses: Beyond gorgonzola, cream cheese, or mozzarella, consider stirring in some grated Parmesan for a salty, nutty kick, or a touch of Gruyere for a sophisticated flavor.
This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make, proving that gourmet flavors don’t require hours in the kitchen!
Serving Suggestions for Creamy Spinach Chicken
This creamy spinach chicken is so flavorful and hearty, it truly doesn’t *need* a side dish. However, if you’re looking to create a more complete meal, or simply want to round out the plate, here are some perfect accompaniments:
- Brown Rice: A classic choice that perfectly soaks up the luscious creamy sauce. Its nutty flavor and texture provide a wonderful contrast.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are an ultimate comfort food pairing, making this a truly indulgent meal.
- Pasta: Toss with your favorite pasta – fettuccine, linguine, or penne would all be excellent choices for coating with the rich sauce.
- Quinoa: For a lighter, protein-packed grain option, quinoa is a fantastic healthy alternative to rice.
- Crusty Bread: Don’t underestimate the power of a good crusty baguette to mop up every last drop of that amazing spinach sauce.
- Side Salad: A simple, crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing balance to the rich chicken and sauce.
- A Glass of Wine: Absolutely! A crisp white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Chardonnay would complement the creaminess beautifully. Go ahead, treat yourself!
Whether you’re planning a romantic date night or a cozy family dinner, this Creamy Spinach Chicken is guaranteed to be a hit. It combines simple ingredients with comforting flavors to create a meal that feels both special and effortless.
More Chicken Recipes You’ll Love
If you’re a fan of delicious and versatile chicken dishes, be sure to explore some of my other favorite recipes:
- Chicken Bruschetta
- Tex-Mex Grilled Chicken Burrito
- Lemon Spinach Chicken
- Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard
Creamy Spinach Chicken
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Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs
- 1/4 tsp chili powder, optional, or paprika for color
- salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp all purpose flour
- 1/2 small onion
- 1 garlic clove
- 3 tbsp gorgonzola
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
Instructions
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Begin by preparing your skillet. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
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Add the fresh spinach to the hot skillet. Cover the skillet and allow the spinach to wilt down, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. This usually takes just a few minutes.
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Once the spinach has completely wilted, remove it from the skillet and set it aside in a bowl. You can lightly press out any excess water if desired, but it’s not strictly necessary.
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Return the skillet to medium heat and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the finely diced onions and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they become soft and translucent. This step builds the aromatic base for our creamy sauce.
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Stir in the minced fresh garlic and cook for another minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
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Next, add the butter to the skillet. Once the butter has melted, stir in the all-purpose flour. Cook this mixture, known as a roux, for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly. This will cook out the raw flour taste and create the base for our thick sauce.
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Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring to continuously stir to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture up to a gentle boil, continuing to stir as it heats.
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Once the sauce begins to boil and thicken slightly, reduce the heat to low. Allow it to simmer gently while you prepare the chicken.
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While the sauce is simmering, season the chicken breasts generously on both sides with salt, pepper, and chili powder (if using). Ensure an even coating for maximum flavor.
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In a separate medium-sized skillet, heat a touch more olive oil or vegetable oil over high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until beautifully golden-brown and cooked through. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your chicken.
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Once the milk mixture has thickened to your desired consistency, return the wilted spinach to the skillet. Add the crumbled gorgonzola cheese (or your chosen cheese) and stir gently. Immediately turn off the heat.
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Continue to stir until the gorgonzola cheese has completely melted into the creamy spinach sauce. Taste and season generously with additional salt and pepper as needed to perfect the flavor.
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Carefully place the cooked chicken breasts into the creamy spinach sauce. Allow them to simmer on very low heat for about 4-5 minutes. This gentle simmer will allow the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauce and ensure it is fully cooked through and wonderfully tender.
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Serve your delicious Creamy Spinach Chicken immediately with your choice of brown rice, mashed potatoes, or a crusty bread. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy this comforting and flavorful meal!
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Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
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Tips for Success with Your Creamy Spinach Chicken
To ensure your Creamy Spinach Chicken turns out perfectly every time, here are a few tips:
- Don’t Overcook the Spinach: Spinach wilts quickly. Cook it just until tender to retain its vibrant color and nutrients. Overcooking can make it mushy.
- Achieve a Golden Sear on Chicken: Ensure your skillet is hot and don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken. This allows for a beautiful, even golden crust which adds immense flavor. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Make a Smooth Roux: When adding flour to butter, stir continuously for about 30 seconds to cook off the raw flour taste. Then, add milk gradually, whisking constantly to prevent lumps and create a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Season in Layers: Seasoning the chicken separately and then adjusting the seasoning of the sauce at the end ensures a well-balanced flavor throughout the dish.
- Cheese Choices: While Gorgonzola offers a unique pungent flavor, feel free to use cream cheese for a tangier, thicker sauce, or shredded mozzarella for a milder, stretchier cheese pull. A combination of cheeses can also be delightful!
Storage and Reheating
This Creamy Spinach Chicken recipe is fantastic for meal prep or enjoying as leftovers. Store any remaining portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Avoid high heat, as it can cause the sauce to separate. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through.
I hope this recipe becomes a staple in your kitchen, just as it has in mine. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly spectacular. Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of this easy and delicious creamy spinach chicken!