One-Pan Creamy Chicken and Spinach

One-Pan Creamy Chicken and Spinach Delight

Embark on a culinary journey with our One-Pan Creamy Chicken and Spinach recipe – a symphony of flavors and textures that come together effortlessly in a single pan. This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also minimizes the mess in the kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this recipe guarantees a delightful and wholesome meal for you and your loved ones.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/3 cup white wine or chicken broth
  • 1 can (14 1/2 ounces) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
  • 1 package (5.2 ounces) soft cheese, such as Boursin® Garlic & Fine Herbs Gournay cheese, cut into cubes
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 4 cups packed roughly-chopped fresh spinach
  • 2 tablespoons minced fresh chives

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat until the butter is melted and bubbly.
  3. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

  1. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
  2. Pour in white wine or chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to deglaze and pick up any flavorful bits.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Base

  1. Add fire-roasted diced tomatoes, cubes of soft cheese, and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Stir until the cheese is melted and the ingredients are well combined.
  2. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, coating it with the creamy mixture.

Step 4: Add Spinach and Chives

  1. Toss in the roughly-chopped fresh spinach, allowing it to wilt in the creamy sauce.
  2. Sprinkle minced fresh chives over the top, giving the dish a burst of freshness.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Spoon the creamy chicken and spinach onto plates, ensuring each serving gets a generous amount of the flavorful sauce.
  2. Garnish with extra chives if desired.

Cook Notes and Variations

  • Creamy Texture: For an even creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce.
  • Cheese Substitutes: Experiment with different soft cheeses like goat cheese or cream cheese.
  • Vegetarian Twist: Swap the chicken for tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
  • Spice it Up: Kick up the heat by adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
  • Grilled Chicken: Grill the chicken breasts for a smoky flavor before incorporating them into the dish.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

Keto Version

  • Replace white wine with dry white wine or use chicken broth.
  • Opt for a high-fat, low-carb cheese alternative.
  • Ensure the diced tomatoes do not contain added sugars.

Low-Carb Version

  • Substitute soft cheese with a low-carb cream cheese.
  • Choose a low-carb vegetable in place of tomatoes, such as cherry tomatoes in moderation.
  • Adjust the quantity of onion to meet your low-carb preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach for fresh. Make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the dish.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the dish up to the point of adding the spinach and chives. Refrigerate, and when ready to serve, reheat and finish with fresh spinach and chives.

Q3: What can I serve with this dish?

This creamy chicken and spinach pair wonderfully with cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or a side salad.

Q4: Can I use bone-in chicken?

Certainly! Adjust the cooking time to ensure the bone-in chicken is fully cooked.

Q5: Is there a substitute for white wine?

Chicken broth or vegetable broth can be used as a white wine substitute.

Indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of our One-Pan Creamy Chicken and Spinach. This hassle-free recipe promises not only a delightful dining experience but also the convenience of easy cleanup. Whether you follow the keto lifestyle, prefer a low-carb option, or simply crave a comforting meal, this dish is a versatile crowd-pleaser. Elevate your cooking repertoire and savor the magic of flavors in every bite!