Creamy Chicken Breast in Spinach Parmesan Sauce
Quick, cozy, and full of flavor, ready in just 30 minutes.
Ever have one of those days where you just want something rich, creamy, and totally satisfying, but without spending hours in the kitchen? This creamy chicken breast in spinach parmesan sauce is your new best friend. It’s cozy, comforting, and comes together in one skillet, kind of like these Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Asparagus, another quick and flavorful dinner favorite.
Quick, cozy, and full of flavor, ready in just 30 minutes.
Ever have one of those days where you just want something rich, creamy, and totally satisfying, but without spending hours in the kitchen? This creamy chicken breast in spinach parmesan sauce is your new best friend. It’s cozy, comforting, and comes together in one skillet.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or just treating yourself, this is the kind of recipe that makes you feel like a chef, without the stress.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or just treating yourself, this is the kind of recipe that makes you feel like a chef, without the stress.
What You’ll Need
You probably already have most of these in your kitchen:
- 2 chicken breasts (or thighs if you prefer dark meat)
- 2 cups fresh spinach (frozen works too, just thaw and drain)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or use half and half for a lighter version)
- ½ cup grated parmesan (or pecorino if you want a bolder flavor)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced (or garlic powder in a pinch)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Optional: a little lemon zest for a fresh, zippy finish
Cooking Timeline
Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
20 Minutes
Total Time
30 Minutes
That’s quicker than most takeout and way more satisfying.
How to Make It Step by Step
If creamy, one-pan dinners are your thing, you’re going to love this twist too. Our Creamy Lemon Chicken Gnocchi is another cozy 30-minute wonder: rich, zesty, and perfect for busy weeknights. It’s loaded with flavor and comes together in one skillet just like this recipe. Perfect when you’re craving something comforting with a fresh citrusy kick.
1. Season the Chicken
Start by pounding the chicken breasts so they cook evenly. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Don’t skip this step, it really makes a difference.
2. Sear Until Golden
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and sear for about 5 to 7 minutes per side until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Set the chicken aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic and Spinach
In that same pan, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for a minute until fragrant. Add the spinach and cook until it wilts. If you’re using frozen spinach, just warm it through.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the cream and scrape up any golden bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the parmesan and Italian seasoning. Let everything melt together into a rich, creamy sauce.
5. Bring It All Together
Add the chicken back into the skillet. Spoon that dreamy sauce over the top and let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. If you’re using lemon zest, sprinkle it in now for a bright little lift.
What to Serve with It
This creamy chicken is super versatile. Here are some delicious ways to serve it:
- Over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes
- With roasted vegetables or steamed green beans
- On its own with crusty bread to soak up that sauce
- Tossed with zucchini noodles for a low-carb option
- And if you’re craving a crispy, hands-off chicken dinner, try our Oven Baked Chicken Thighs.
Easy Healthy Swaps
Want to make it a bit lighter or adjust for your diet? Try these:
- Use low-fat cream or unsweetened almond milk with a little cornstarch to thicken
- Replace parmesan with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version
- Swap chicken for tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian twist
- Serve with cauliflower rice for fewer carbs
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the chicken: This dries it out. Use a meat thermometer and pull it off the heat at 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Under-seasoning: Salt brings out all the other flavors, so don’t forget it.
- Skipping the resting time: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing, it keeps it juicy.
- Rushing the sauce: Let it simmer so the flavors blend and the texture gets silky.
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers:
- In the fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- In the freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly on the stove with a splash of cream to refresh the sauce.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 38 grams
- Carbs: 5 grams
- Fat: 33 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
It’s a filling, protein-packed meal that won’t leave you feeling heavy.
Conclusion
This creamy chicken in spinach parmesan sauce is the kind of meal that looks fancy but feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s cozy, it’s comforting, and it’s made in just one pan.
Even better? It’s easy to make your own. Add extra garlic, toss in some mushrooms, or spice it up with chili flakes. This is your dinner, make it the way you love it.
