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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Spinach


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  • Author: Emma Parker
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten-Free

Description

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Spinach is an easy, comforting dinner made with tender chicken, fresh spinach, garlic, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or a cozy meal served with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Tender lean protein that cooks quickly and works perfectly with the creamy sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps brown the chicken beautifully while adding light richness.
  • 2 tablespoons butter – Adds buttery flavor and helps create a flavorful base for the sauce.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Adds a fragrant blend of herbs.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika – Provides mild warmth and attractive golden color.
  • ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor.
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds gentle peppery depth.

For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced – Provides the bold savory garlic flavor that makes the sauce irresistible.
  • 1 cup heavy cream – Creates a rich, smooth, and creamy sauce.
  • ½ cup chicken broth – Adds savory flavor while helping create the perfect sauce consistency.
  • ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Gives the sauce its signature cheesy, nutty flavor and creamy texture.
  • 5 ounces fresh baby spinach – Adds freshness, color, and a mild earthy flavor.
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning – Enhances the herbaceous flavor of the sauce.
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional – Adds a subtle kick.
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste – Balances and enhances the sauce.

Optional Garnishes

  • Freshly grated Parmesan
  • Chopped fresh parsley
  • Fresh basil
  • Red pepper flakes
  • Freshly cracked black pepper
  • Lemon wedges

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add chicken and sear for 4–6 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked to 165°F (74°C).
  4. Transfer chicken to a clean plate and reduce the skillet heat to medium.
  5. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Pour in chicken broth and scrape the browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
  7. Add heavy cream and Italian seasoning, then bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
  8. Reduce heat to low and gradually stir in freshly grated Parmesan until smooth.
  9. Add fresh spinach and cook for 2–3 minutes until wilted.
  10. Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
  11. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and spoon the creamy sauce over the top.
  12. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
  13. Garnish with Parmesan, fresh parsley, basil, or red pepper flakes.
  14. Serve immediately with pasta, rice, vegetables, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest and creamiest sauce.
  • Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer to prevent separating.
  • Store leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
  • Prep Time: 10
  • Cook Time: 25
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 servings
  • Calories: 520 calories