Creamy Spinach & Tomato Chicken Skillet

Creamy Spinach & Tomato Chicken Skillet is a delicious one-pan meal that features tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich, garlic-infused cream sauce with cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach. This comforting dish is perfect for a quick dinner that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan simplicity: Everything cooks in a single skillet, making cleanup easy.
• Quick preparation: Ready in about 40 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights.
• Balanced and flavorful: Combines lean protein, vegetables, and a creamy sauce for a complete and satisfying meal.
• Versatile serving options: Pairs well with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
• Customizable: Easy to adapt with different proteins or vegetables to suit your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Unsalted butter
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Cherry tomatoes
• Fresh spinach
• Heavy cream or half-and-half
• Grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Add the chicken to the skillet and sear for 7–8 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add butter and sauté garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until they begin to burst and soften.
6. Stir in the cream and Parmesan cheese, allowing the sauce to simmer and thicken.
7. Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
8. Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over it, and simmer for 2–3 minutes to heat through.
9. Serve hot with your choice of pasta, rice, or bread.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Use chicken thighs for a richer flavor and juicier texture.
• Add mushrooms or bell peppers to the sauce for extra vegetables.
• Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
• Use sun-dried tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes for deeper flavor.
• Try different greens, like kale or arugula, in place of spinach.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
• Freeze without the spinach for up to 2 months. Add fresh spinach when reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding to avoid excess water in the sauce.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be less rich.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, if served without pasta or bread, it is low in carbs and fits a keto diet.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the butter, cream, and cheese with dairy-free alternatives.

How can I tell when the chicken is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer—chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, cook and store it in the fridge, then reheat before serving. Add fresh spinach when reheating for best results.

What’s the best way to serve this dish?

Over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Can I add pasta directly to the skillet?

Yes, stir in cooked pasta at the end to coat it with the sauce.

What if my sauce is too runny?

Simmer it a bit longer or stir in a cornstarch slurry to thicken.

Can I use bone-in chicken?

You can, but cooking time will increase. Be sure to cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Conclusion

Creamy Spinach & Tomato Chicken Skillet is a satisfying, easy-to-make recipe that brings together hearty ingredients and comforting flavors. Perfect for a quick dinner or a casual gathering, this dish is sure to become a regular part of your home cooking rotation. Serve it with your favorite side and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal made right in your kitchen

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