Creamy Spinach Artichoke Chicken

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If you’re in the mood for a cozy, comforting meal that feels like it came straight from your favorite restaurant, then this Creamy Spinach Artichoke Chicken is just the dish for you! It’s packed with flavor, creamy goodness, and a delightful blend of textures.

Plus, it’s simple enough to whip up on a weeknight, yet impressive enough to serve at a dinner party.

Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try, and then I’ll share all the details you need to get started.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This creamy chicken dish is inspired by the beloved spinach artichoke dip that we all know and love.

It takes those rich and cheesy flavors and elevates them by adding tender chicken breasts for a satisfying meal.

The combination of cream, artichoke hearts, and fresh spinach creates a luxurious sauce that has all the right elements: creamy, savory, with a hint of spice.

Plus, it comes together quickly! You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create a delicious dinner that feels gourmet without all the fuss.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil (not extra virgin)
• 2 tablespoons (26 g) butter, divided
• 3 large (567 g) boneless and skinless chicken breasts, sliced lengthwise into 6 thin cutlets (about 1.25 lbs)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 4 cloves garlic, pressed or minced
• ¼ cup (60 ml) water, chicken stock, or dry apple cider vinegar
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream (double cream in the UK)
• ½ cup (43 g) grated parmesan
• 4 ounces (113 g) cream cheese
• ⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 cup quartered artichoke hearts in water, drained and roughly chopped
• 2 cups baby spinach leaves, roughly chopped

How To Make Creamy Spinach Artichoke Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by slicing your chicken breasts into thin cutlets.

This helps them cook faster and ensures they soak up all the creamy goodness in the sauce.

Sprinkle both sides with salt and black pepper.

Set aside and let them come to room temperature for about 15 minutes.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat.

Once the butter is melted and bubbly, add the chicken cutlets to the skillet in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.

Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of butter.

Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until it’s fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Next, pour in the water (or chicken stock or wine) to deglaze the pan, scraping any brown bits off the bottom for extra flavor.

Stir to combine, and then add the heavy cream, grated parmesan, and cream cheese.

Mix everything well until the cheeses melt and form a smooth sauce.

Step 5: Add Spinach and Artichokes

Now it’s time to bring in the stars of the show! Stir in the chopped artichoke hearts and spinach.

Cook for a few minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt into the sauce.

Add in the crushed red pepper flakes for a little kick, and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Finally, return the seared chicken cutlets to the skillet.

Spoon some of the creamy sauce over the top and let everything simmer together for about 5 minutes on low heat.

This allows the chicken to soak up all that delicious flavor.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Turn off the heat and serve the Creamy Spinach Artichoke Chicken hot, spooning extra sauce over the top.

This dish pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or even a side of garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Enjoy your dinner!

Expert Tips

• Ensure your chicken is sliced thinly for even cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
• Don’t skip deglazing the pan; that’s where a lot of flavor resides!
• For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
• Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or less crushed red pepper flakes based on your preference.

Variations and Customizations

• Swap out the spinach for kale or another leafy green if you prefer.
• Add some sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor.
• Swap the parmesan cheese for mozzarella for a different cheesy experience.
• Include other vegetables such as mushrooms or bell peppers for added texture and flavor.

How to Store Leftovers

To store leftovers, let the Creamy Spinach Artichoke Chicken cool down to room temperature.

Then, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of cream or water if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQ

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach! Just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the sauce.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free cream product and omit the cream cheese.

Nutritional yeast can be used in place of parmesan for a cheesy flavor.

Can I make this chicken dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and the chicken ahead of time.

Just store them separately in the fridge and combine them when you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve with Creamy Spinach Artichoke Chicken?

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or even a simple green salad to balance the creamy richness.

Conclusion

Creamy Spinach Artichoke Chicken is definitely a recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat.

It’s creamy, comforting, and packed full of flavor — everything you could ask for in a delightful dinner dish.

So gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy the wonderful flavors that this dish brings to the table! You won’t regret it!

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