Description
Creamy Garlic Mushroom & Spinach Chicken is a decadent, restaurant-quality dish that combines tender, seasoned chicken with a rich and velvety sauce. The savory blend of garlic, mushrooms, spinach, and Parmesan cheese creates a flavorful medley that’s sure to impress at any dinner table. Not only is this dish packed with comforting flavors, but it’s also quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Pair it with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a meal that’s bound to become a household favorite.
Ingredients
Scale
The Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The star of the dish, tender and juicy.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – To sear the chicken and lock in flavor.
- 1 teaspoon paprika – Adds color and a smoky hint to the chicken.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Infuses subtle garlic flavor into the chicken.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances the chicken’s natural flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a touch of spice and heat.
The Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter – Provides richness to the sauce.
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced – Delivers a hearty, earthy flavor.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced – Adds a robust, aromatic base to the sauce.
- 2 cups fresh spinach – Brings a pop of freshness and nutrients.
- 1 cup heavy cream – Creates the creamy texture.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth – Adds depth and balances the creaminess.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Gives the sauce a nutty, savory flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Blends herbs for a balanced seasoning.
- Salt and pepper to taste – For seasoning the sauce to perfection.
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped – Adds a touch of color and freshness.
Instructions
1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
- Begin by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This helps the seasonings stick and ensures a golden sear.
- In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub the mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, place the chicken in the skillet.
2: Sear the Chicken
- Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe consumption.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
3: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add butter. Allow it to melt and become slightly bubbly.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 3-4 minutes until they become tender and slightly browned.
- Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, releasing its aroma.
- Add the fresh spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach wilts.
4: Make the Creamy Sauce
- Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir well to combine.
- Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
5: Combine and Serve
- Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Spoon the sauce over the chicken to coat it generously.
- Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat the chicken through and allow the flavors to meld.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
- Choose Fresh Ingredients:
Use fresh chicken breasts, mushrooms, and spinach for the best flavor and texture. Fresh ingredients enhance the overall quality of the dish. - Pat the Chicken Dry:
Before seasoning, pat the chicken dry with a paper towel. This helps the seasoning stick better and ensures a golden-brown sear. - Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:
When searing the chicken, give each piece enough space to cook evenly. Overcrowding can cause steaming instead of proper browning. - Season Gradually:
Taste the sauce as you cook and adjust the seasoning (salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning) to your preference. This ensures a balanced flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing and Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 130 mg