Looking for a meal that’s wholesome, flavorful, and quick to make?
Chicken and spinach recipes are the perfect solution! Packed with lean protein and nutrient-rich greens, this dish is both satisfying and healthy.
It’s a simple one-pan recipe that works for busy professionals, families, and meal-preppers who want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Perfect For: Families, healthy eaters, weeknight dinners, and lunch prep
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ✅ Healthy & Nutritious – loaded with protein, iron, and vitamins
- ✅ One-Pan Wonder – less cleanup, more flavor
- ✅ Quick & Easy – ready in under 30 minutes
- ✅ Versatile – works with pasta, rice, or on its own
- ✅ Meal-Prep Friendly – reheats well for next-day meals
Ingredients Needed 🛒
- Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless – sliced into strips)
- Fresh spinach (about 4 cups, loosely packed)
- Olive oil or butter
- Garlic cloves (minced)
- Onion (diced, optional)
- Chicken broth or water
- Heavy cream or Greek yogurt (for a creamy version)
- Parmesan cheese (optional topping)
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
Substitutions:
- Swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs or ground chicken.
- Use frozen spinach if fresh isn’t available.
- Replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
How to Make Chicken and Spinach Recipes
Follow these simple steps for a delicious, beginner-friendly meal:
- Heat oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chicken strips, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown (about 5–6 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic and onion until fragrant.
- Add spinach and stir until wilted (2–3 minutes).
- Pour in chicken broth and let simmer for flavor.
- Stir in heavy cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess (optional).
- Return chicken to the pan, mix well, and cook for another 2–3 minutes.
- Top with Parmesan and serve hot!
Recipe Tips & Variations
- 🍝 Make it pasta-style: Toss with penne or fettuccine for a creamy chicken spinach pasta.
- 🥩 Protein swap: Try turkey, shrimp, or even tofu for variety.
- 🌶️ Spice it up: Add chili flakes or Cajun seasoning.
- 🥦 Veggie boost: Throw in mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
- ⚠️ Avoid overcooking chicken – it can get dry quickly. Cook until just done.
What to Serve It With
This recipe pairs perfectly with:
- 🍚 Steamed jasmine rice or quinoa
- 🥗 Fresh Caesar or garden salad
- 🍝 Creamy pasta or whole wheat noodles
- 🥔 Roasted or mashed potatoes
- 🥖 Warm garlic bread
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet on low heat or microwave with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving – Chicken with Spinach, no cream)
- Calories: ~280
- Protein: 32g
- Carbs: 6g
- Fat: 12g
Printable Chicken and Spinach Recipe Card 🍴
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts (sliced)
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- ½ onion (diced, optional)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup heavy cream or Greek yogurt (optional)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat oil in skillet, cook chicken until golden, set aside.
- Sauté garlic & onion, add spinach until wilted.
- Pour broth, stir in cream/yogurt if using.
- Add chicken back, cook 2–3 minutes.
- Top with Parmesan, serve hot.
FAQs About Chicken and Spinach Recipes
1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes! Just thaw and drain excess water before adding.
2. What’s the best chicken cut for this recipe?
Boneless chicken breasts or thighs work best.
3. Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely – use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of dairy.
4. How do I keep chicken juicy?
Avoid overcooking. Remove chicken once internal temp hits 165°F.
5. Can I make this into a pasta dish?
Yes! Add cooked pasta directly to the pan for a creamy chicken spinach pasta.
Conclusion
Chicken and spinach recipes are healthy, versatile, and absolutely delicious.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep.
Whether you keep it light or make it creamy, this dish is guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen.
Michael Brown is a passionate food lover who creates simple, flavorful recipes for everyday cooking. He focuses on easy-to-follow meals that bring comfort and joy to the table. With his creative twists, Michael helps home cooks make delicious dishes with confidence.
