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In the world of culinary delights, few dishes can match the comforting embrace of a creamy chicken and spinach skillet meal. This recipe showcases tender chicken breasts enveloped in a luscious cream sauce, complemented by the vibrant flavors of spinach and cherry tomatoes. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy gathering, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrition. In this blog post, we explore the intricacies of making this delicious meal, the health benefits of its ingredients, and tips for enhancing your dining experience.

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Skillet Dinner

Discover the joys of cooking with this creamy chicken and spinach skillet recipe that’s both comforting and nutritious. Tender chicken breasts are enveloped in a luscious cream sauce, enhanced by vibrant spinach and cherry tomatoes. Perfect for busy nights or cozy gatherings, this dish is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Explore the health benefits of each ingredient, learn essential cooking tips, and customize your meal to suit your dietary preferences, all while enjoying the rich, savory experience of this delightful dish.

Ingredients
  

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, finely minced

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup heavy cream

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or mix of dried basil and oregano)

Cooked pasta (such as fettuccine) or fluffy white rice, for serving

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken: Generously season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, onion powder, and smoked paprika, ensuring an even coating for flavor.

    Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover to keep warm.

      Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, reduce the heat slightly and add the minced garlic. Sauté for roughly 30 seconds, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant but not browned, as it can become bitter.

        Add Spinach and Tomatoes: Next, add the chopped spinach and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Stir well and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the spinach wilts beautifully and the tomatoes start to soften and burst.

          Make It Creamy: Lower the heat to medium-low and gently pour in the heavy cream while stirring to combine it with the sautéed vegetables. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, stirring constantly for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and slightly thickened.

            Reintroduce the Chicken: Slice the cooked chicken breasts into strips and carefully return them to the skillet. Toss the chicken strips in the creamy sauce, allowing them to soak up the flavors. Heat everything together for an additional 2 minutes, ensuring everything is warmed through.

              Serve: Divide the creamy chicken and spinach mixture over a bed of cooked pasta or fluffy white rice. For a beautiful presentation, sprinkle with extra grated Parmesan cheese and a hint of fresh cracked black pepper. Enjoy your delightful and satisfying skillet meal!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 25 minutes | Serves 4