Creamy Chicken And Spinach Skillet

Name: Creamy Chicken And Spinach Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cups fresh spinach; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon nutmeg; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Hearty Traditions

I absolutely love making this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Skillet when I need a comforting meal that comes together quickly. The combination of tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich, creamy sauce creates a dish that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to prepare. In just 30 minutes, I can have a restaurant-quality entrée ready for my family. It's a perfect weeknight dinner that never fails to impress, and the vibrant flavors are sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters at my table.

Created by

Noemi Turner

Last updated on 2026-02-08T03:57:36.058Z

When I first tried this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Skillet, I was amazed at how quickly it came together without sacrificing flavor. I experimented with different spices and found that adding a hint of nutmeg elevates the creaminess and complements the spinach perfectly. The best part is that I can customize the recipe by adding mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes, depending on what I have on hand.

While cooking, I learned that letting the chicken rest after searing keeps it juicy and tender. I also discovered that starting with a good quality cream helps achieve the velvety texture that ties all the ingredients together. This dish is now a staple in my kitchen, and I love sharing it with friends and family!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy sauce that envelops tender chicken
Fresh spinach adds a delightful pop of color and nutrition
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

The Importance of Searing Chicken

Searing the chicken properly is a crucial step that greatly enhances the dish's flavor and texture. By cooking the chicken over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes per side, you create a delicious golden brown crust that locks in juices. This technique not only improves taste but also adds a pleasing visual element to the final presentation. If your chicken isn’t browning, try increasing the heat slightly, but be cautious to avoid burning.

Using a large skillet allows for optimal spacing, promoting even cooking. Be sure to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after removing it from the skillet; this helps redistribute the juices, resulting in a more succulent bite when you serve it.

Crafting the Creamy Sauce

The heavy cream is the star of the sauce and provides that rich, velvety consistency that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken. Once you add the cream to the skillet, keep an eye on it as it simmers; it should thicken slightly in about 2-3 minutes. Stir often to prevent it from sticking or scorching on the bottom of the pan. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or even use a non-dairy cream alternative, adjusting the heat and timing accordingly.

Integrating the spinach into the sauce not only enhances the visual appeal but also boosts the nutrition profile with vitamins and antioxidants. Ensure that the spinach is fresh for the best flavor; add it towards the end of the sauce cooking process to maintain its vibrant color and slight crunch. Overcooked spinach can turn mushy and lose its bright green hue.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious creamy chicken dish:

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cups fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Once you have everything ready, you'll be on your way to a delightful meal!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a quick and easy preparation:

Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Create the Cream Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the heavy cream. Stir in the nutmeg and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.

Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it with the creamy spinach sauce. Let it simmer for an additional 2 minutes to heat through. Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your creamy chicken and spinach skillet with a side of rice or your favorite pasta!

Pro Tips

For an added boost of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in lemon juice and herbs for an hour before cooking. This extra step enhances both tenderness and taste.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Skillet pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a comforting option, serve it over fluffy rice or al dente pasta. The creamy sauce clings wonderfully to these carbs, ensuring every bite is luxurious. Alternatively, if you're looking for a low-carb option, steamed cauliflower or zucchini noodles can be excellent substitutes.

Consider adding a side salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. Fresh greens will not only provide a contrasting texture but also enhance the meal's nutritional value, making it a well-rounded dinner.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, this dish stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To preserve the creamy texture, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce thickens too much during refrigeration, add a splash of chicken broth or additional cream while reheating to restore its silky consistency.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked chicken and sauce separately. Freeze for up to 2 months, and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Be aware that the texture of spinach may change after freezing; however, the flavors will still remain satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to the sauce.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This creamy chicken pairs well with rice, pasta, or even a fresh green salad.

→ Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

You can use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative to achieve a similar creamy texture without dairy.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and then combine and heat just before serving.