Introduction

Craving a restaurant-quality dinner without the wait? This Creamy Spinach Chicken in 20 Minutes is your secret weapon. Tender chicken simmers in a rich garlic parmesan sauce with fresh spinach for a meal that feels indulgent yet is incredibly simple to make. If you love creamy chicken dishes, you might also enjoy this Herb Roasted Chicken In Creamy White Wine Sauce Recipe.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create a rich and comforting skillet meal where tender chicken and fresh spinach are enveloped in a luxuriously creamy, cheesy garlic sauce.

• 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced horizontally into thin cutlets
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup onion, chopped
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups fresh spinach
• 1.5 cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter sauce)
• 1 ounce cream cheese
• 1/2 cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	20 minutes
Total Time	35 minutes

Context: This Creamy Spinach Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Sauce comes together in about 35 minutes, which is roughly 25% faster than many similar skillet chicken recipes that require separate sauce preparation.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Chicken

Pat 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs completely dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and a teaspoon of Italian seasoning or paprika for extra flavor.

Tip: For more even cooking and faster prep, slice larger chicken breasts in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets.

Step 2 — Sear the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken in a single layer, working in batches if needed to avoid crowding. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).

Transfer the cooked chicken to a clean plate and tent loosely with foil. It will finish cooking gently in the sauce later.

Step 3 — Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add another tablespoon of butter or oil if the pan is dry. Add 4-5 minced garlic cloves and 1 small diced onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the onion is translucent.

Step 4 — Create the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Pour in 1.5 cups of chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low.

Gradually whisk in 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. For a thicker sauce, let it simmer for 3-5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg or red pepper flakes if desired.

Step 5 — Wilt the Spinach

Add 5-6 ounces of fresh baby spinach to the simmering sauce. Use tongs to gently stir and fold the spinach into the hot liquid. It will wilt dramatically within 1-2 minutes.

Tip: If using frozen spinach, be sure to thaw and thoroughly squeeze out all excess water first to prevent a watery sauce.

Step 6 — Combine and Simmer

Return the seared chicken and any accumulated juices back to the skillet, nestling it into the creamy spinach and garlic Parmesan sauce. Spoon some sauce over the top of each piece.

Let the Creamy Spinach Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Sauce simmer together over low heat for 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to reheat thoroughly.

Step 7 — Final Seasoning and Serve

Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness. Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley or basil.

Serve this rich dish immediately over pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up every bit of the delicious sauce.

Nutritional Information

Calories	~420 kcal
Protein	~38 g
Carbohydrates	~8 g
Fat	~26 g
Fiber	~2 g
Sodium	~680 mg

Note: These are approximate values for one serving of Creamy Spinach Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Sauce. Actual nutrition can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Healthier Alternatives

This Creamy Spinach Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is wonderfully adaptable. Here are practical ingredient swaps to suit different dietary needs without sacrificing its rich, comforting essence.

• Protein Swap (Turkey or Tofu) — Use ground turkey or sliced firm tofu for a leaner or plant-based option. The sauce will still coat beautifully, though the cooking time may vary.
• Lower-Carb Thickener — Replace flour with a tablespoon of almond flour or xanthan gum to thicken the sauce, keeping it rich and creamy without the carbs.
• Dairy-Free Creaminess — Substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a plain, unsweetened cashew cream for a luxuriously smooth, dairy-free garlic parmesan sauce.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation — Ensure your recipe is gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch slurry as the thickener.
• Low-Sodium Version — Opt for low-sodium chicken broth and a reduced-sodium parmesan cheese. Boost flavor with extra garlic, black pepper, and a pinch of smoked paprika.
• Lighter Cream Base — For a lighter creamy spinach chicken, use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of cream cheese instead of heavy cream.
• Leafy Green Variation — Swap spinach for kale or Swiss chard; just remember to sauté a bit longer to soften the heartier greens.
• Oil Alternative — Cook the chicken in avocado oil or ghee for a higher smoke point and a subtly different, nutty flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• For a classic comfort meal, serve this Creamy Spinach Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Sauce over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles to soak up every bit of the rich sauce.
• Create a lighter, low-carb plate by pairing it with cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or a simple side salad dressed with a bright lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
• It makes for an elegant dinner party main. Plate it alongside roasted asparagus, garlic bread, and a glass of crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay.
• For a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner, serve it with a side of steamed rice or crusty bread to ensure no sauce goes to waste.
• Transform leftovers by shredding the chicken and tossing it with cooked pasta for a quick pasta bake, or use it as a luxurious filling for stuffed crepes or puff pastry.

This versatile Creamy Spinach Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is perfect for everything from a cozy family meal to a special occasion. For plating, a shallow pasta bowl showcases the sauce beautifully. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan, a crack of black pepper, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped chives for a pop of color and freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using thin, pre-shredded Parmesan that clumps and doesn’t melt smoothly. Fix: Always grate a block of high-quality Parmigiano-Reggiano or Grana Padano yourself for the best texture and flavor.
• Mistake: Overcrowding the pan when searing the chicken, which steams it instead of creating a golden crust. Fix:
  Cook the chicken in batches in a single layer to ensure proper browning, which builds flavor for the entire sauce.
• Mistake: Adding raw garlic to hot oil, causing it to burn and turn bitter in seconds. Fix: Sauté the garlic for only 30-60 seconds until fragrant, or add it after deglazing the pan with cream to gently cook it.
• Mistake: Dumping frozen spinach directly into the sauce, which waters it down. Fix: Thoroughly thaw and squeeze all excess liquid from frozen spinach using a clean kitchen towel before adding it.
• Mistake: Letting the sauce boil vigorously after adding the cheese, which can cause it to break and become greasy. Fix: Keep the heat on low when incorporating the Parmesan, stirring constantly until just melted and creamy.
• Mistake: Underseasoning the chicken and sauce, resulting in a bland dish. Fix: Generously season the chicken with salt and pepper before cooking, and always taste and adjust the sauce at the end.
• Mistake: Using heavy cream that’s too cold, shocking the pan and preventing proper emulsification. Fix: Let the cream sit out for 10-15 minutes to take the chill off before adding it to the pan.
• Mistake: Cutting the chicken immediately after cooking, letting all the precious juices run out. Fix: Let the cooked chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
• Mistake: Skipping the deglazing step, leaving flavorful browned bits stuck to the pan. Fix: After searing the chicken, use a splash of broth or white wine to scrape up the fond—this is the flavor foundation for your garlic Parmesan sauce.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Cool the creamy spinach chicken completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the internal temperature has dropped before refrigerating.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low-medium heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to refresh the sauce. You can also use the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds. Reheat until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

Proper storage keeps your creamy spinach chicken in garlic parmesan sauce tasting fresh and delicious for future meals.

Conclusion

This Creamy Spinach Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a guaranteed family favorite that’s both elegant and easy. For another delicious chicken and cheese combo, try our Chicken Parmesan Stuffed with Cream Cheese Recipe. We hope you love this dish—please leave a comment with your review and subscribe for more amazing recipes!

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Creamy Spinach Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

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Tender chicken breasts seared to perfection and smothered in a rich, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce with fresh spinach for a quick and comforting meal.

• Author: Dorothy Miller
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x
• Method: Main Course
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced horizontally into thin cutlets
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup onion, chopped
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups fresh spinach
• 1.5 cups heavy cream
• 1 ounce cream cheese
• 1/2 cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through to 165°F. Remove to a plate and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted.
3. Pour in heavy cream and cream cheese. Whisk over medium-low heat until smooth and hot. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce thickens. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
4. Return chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over top, and simmer for 1-2 minutes to rewarm. Serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. Use fresh spinach for the best texture. This dish reheats well but may thicken; add a splash of cream when reheating.

Nutrition

• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 42g
• Saturated Fat: 24g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 38g
• Cholesterol: 180mg

FAQs

Can I make this Creamy Spinach Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead. The sauce may thicken upon standing, so simply reheat it gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to loosen it. This helps maintain the perfect creamy texture for your Creamy Spinach Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Sauce.

What can I use instead of heavy cream for a lighter version?

For a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half or whole milk. Be careful not to boil the sauce vigorously, as these alternatives can curdle more easily than heavy cream. The result will still be a delicious, though slightly less rich, creamy spinach chicken.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

To ensure juicy chicken, avoid overcooking it during the initial sear. Cook the chicken just until golden, then finish simmering it gently in the sauce. This two-step method locks in moisture while allowing the chicken to absorb the garlic parmesan flavors.