When you’re in the mood for a hearty and flavorful dinner, but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, Tuscan Garlic Chicken with Spinach is the perfect solution. This creamy, rich, and savory dish is full of bold flavors like garlic, Parmesan, and spinach that perfectly complement tender chicken breasts. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply cooking for your family, this Tuscan-inspired dish is guaranteed to impress. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make in under 30 minutes!
This recipe serves 4, making it ideal for families or small gatherings. The addition of spinach not only adds a burst of color but also provides a nutritious boost to the meal. Let’s dive into this recipe that will surely become a weeknight staple in your home.
advertisement
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, this dish comes together quickly for busy weeknights.
- Packed with Flavor: The creamy garlic sauce, with a hint of sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, creates an unforgettable flavor.
- Nutritious: Chicken and spinach make this dish high in protein, iron, and vitamins, making it healthy as well as tasty.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the creamy, comforting sauce over tender chicken.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Leftovers store well and make a great lunch the next day.
Ingredients List
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup fresh spinach (or 1 package of frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
advertisement
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning. This combination of spices will infuse the chicken with rich flavors that work harmoniously with the sauce.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through and golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. You’ll want to cover it with foil to keep it warm while you prepare the sauce.
2. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can create a bitter taste.
- Next, pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine the flavors and deglaze the pan. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet—these add extra flavor to the sauce.
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce begins to thicken.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth. The Parmesan will thicken the sauce further and add a salty, umami flavor.
- If you’re adding sun-dried tomatoes and red pepper flakes, do so now for an extra burst of flavor.
3. Add the Spinach
- Now, it’s time to add the spinach to the sauce. Fresh spinach works best in this recipe, as it wilts quickly and maintains its vibrant green color. However, you can also use frozen spinach if that’s what you have on hand—just make sure it’s thawed and thoroughly drained to prevent excess water from diluting the sauce.
- Stir the spinach into the sauce until it wilts, which should only take 1–2 minutes.
4. Combine and Serve
- Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy garlic sauce. Spoon the sauce over the chicken to ensure every bite is covered in that rich, garlicky goodness.
- Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for another 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired, for an added touch of freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Tuscan Garlic Chicken with Spinach pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few serving ideas to complete your meal:
- Pasta: Serve this dish over cooked pasta such as fettuccine, linguine, or penne to soak up the creamy sauce. You can even use whole-wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes make a perfect side, creating a delicious comfort-food experience.
- Rice or Quinoa: For a lighter option, serve with fluffy rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice.
- Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty Italian bread is perfect for mopping up the flavorful sauce at the bottom of your plate.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
Tips and Variations
- Make it Dairy-Free: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option. It adds a slight sweetness that complements the garlic and spinach.
- Use Bone-In Chicken: If you prefer bone-in chicken breasts or thighs, you can certainly use them in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly—bone-in chicken takes longer to cook through.
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables to the sauce, such as mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers. Sauté them with the garlic before adding the cream.
- Make it Keto: This recipe is already keto-friendly, but you can serve it with cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables to keep it low-carb.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use frozen spinach?
A: Yes! If you’re using frozen spinach, just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to prevent excess water from diluting the sauce. Fresh spinach is ideal, but frozen spinach works just as well in a pinch.
Q: Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
A: Absolutely! Half-and-half will give you a lighter sauce, but it won’t be quite as thick and rich as the version with heavy cream. You may need to simmer it a bit longer to reduce and thicken the sauce.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken and sauce over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until heated through. You may need to add a splash of cream or chicken broth to loosen the sauce.
Q: Can I freeze Tuscan Garlic Chicken with Spinach?
A: Yes, this dish freezes well! To freeze, place the cooled chicken and sauce in an airtight container and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Why Spinach is a Great Addition
Spinach is not only delicious in this dish, but it’s also packed with nutrients. It’s rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and fiber. This leafy green also adds a pop of color to the creamy sauce, making the dish visually appealing as well as nutritious. Incorporating spinach into meals like Tuscan Garlic Chicken is a great way to increase your intake of vegetables without sacrificing flavor.
Conclusion
Tuscan Garlic Chicken with Spinach is a dish that’s easy to make, but it tastes like something you’d order at a fancy restaurant. The rich, creamy sauce paired with tender, juicy chicken breasts and fresh spinach creates a perfect balance of flavor and texture. Whether you serve it over pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Try it for your next dinner, and don’t forget to share your experience by leaving a comment below or sharing this recipe with your friends and family on social media. Happy cooking!