If you’re on the hunt for a comforting yet elegant dish to impress your family or guests, the Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach Recipe is an absolute winner. This recipe combines tender, golden-browned chicken breasts cloaked in a luscious, garlicky creamed spinach sauce that is rich, velvety, and downright irresistible. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent but comes together easily, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers. Every bite melts in your mouth with balanced flavors and creamy texture, proving that simple ingredients can produce spectacular results.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to crafting this dreamy Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach Recipe. Each component is straightforward yet essential, playing a role in the final taste, texture, and appearance of the dish.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, providing lean, juicy meat that soaks up all the creamy goodness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Perfect for searing the chicken to that alluring golden brown crust.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a warm, savory backbone that enhances the chicken’s flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Brings a subtle smokiness and lovely color to the chicken’s exterior.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing all flavors to life.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: For just the right hint of heat and depth.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Elevates the sauce with rich creaminess and a silky mouthfeel.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Bursts of fragrant garlic infuse the creamed spinach with irresistible aroma.
- 5 oz fresh spinach: Adds vibrant color, nutrients, and a fresh, slightly earthy counterpoint to the creamy cheese.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: The key to that luscious, thick sauce that envelops the chicken.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Delivers a nutty, salty punch that melds beautifully with the cream.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts to gooey perfection on top, creating an irresistible golden crust.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a gentle kick of heat to balance the richness.
How to Make Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Season Your Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to help the seasoning stick better. Then, generously season them on both sides with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This spice blend not only flavors the chicken but also adds a subtle depth that makes each bite tantalizing.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken to a Golden Brown
Grab a large oven-safe skillet and heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, carefully place the chicken breasts in the pan. Sear each side for about 3–4 minutes until the chicken achieves a beautiful golden crust. This searing step locks in juices and creates a flavorful base for your smothered chicken. When browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 3: Build the Creamed Spinach Sauce
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. As it melts, toss in your minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds until fragrant—be careful not to let it burn. Next, add the fresh spinach and let it wilt, stirring occasionally for about 2 minutes. The spinach will reduce in volume dramatically, turning into a lush bed for your chicken. Pour in the heavy cream, sprinkle the Parmesan cheese, and stir steadily until the mixture thickens slightly and becomes smooth. This sauce is going to envelop your chicken in creamy goodness!
Step 4: Combine and Bake
Return the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, nestling them into the creamed spinach sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over each piece to smother them perfectly. Then, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken. Slide the skillet into your preheated oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through and the cheese is bubbling, with golden-browned spots that invite you to dig in!
How to Serve Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach Recipe
Garnishes
To add a fresh, colorful touch, sprinkle some finely chopped fresh parsley or chives on top just before serving. A light dusting of extra Parmesan cheese can also enhance the flavor and add a nice visual finish. These simple garnishes brighten the dish and make it look even more inviting.
Side Dishes
This Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach Recipe pairs beautifully with hearty sides like creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or even a smooth cauliflower mash for a low-carb option. The rich sauce soaks perfectly into these sides, making every bite a comforting celebration.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation, serve each chicken breast atop a bed of the creamed spinach sauce with a drizzle of balsamic glaze around the edge of the plate. Alternatively, place everything in individual ramekins before baking for a charming, personal-sized portion that makes for a lovely dinner party dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days. The flavors actually mellow and develop overnight, so the next day’s meal is often even better!
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to save it for later. Place portions in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing to preserve the creamy texture of the spinach sauce.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce has thickened too much. You can also reheat in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until warmed through. Avoid microwaving directly to keep the sauce silky and the chicken tender.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh in this Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach, but be sure to thoroughly drain any excess water after thawing to avoid a watery sauce. Fresh spinach does provide a nicer texture and brighter flavor, but frozen works in a pinch.
Is this dish low-carb or keto-friendly?
Absolutely! With lean chicken and a creamy spinach sauce, this recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates and fits well into keto and other low-carb diets.
Can I use a different cheese instead of mozzarella?
Yes, feel free to try provolone, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp cheddar for a different twist. Just keep in mind that mozzarella offers a mild, gooey melt that complements the creaminess without overpowering the spinach.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, you can cut into the thickest part to ensure there’s no pink. The baked cheese bubbling is also a great visual clue that the dish is ready.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
For a dairy-free variation, substitute the butter with olive oil, use coconut cream or a dairy-free heavy cream alternative, and choose a dairy-free cheese or omit it. The dish will be different but still deliciously creamy!
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend making this Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach Recipe enough. Its combination of simple ingredients elevates into a dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or guests, this recipe delivers comfort, flavor, and elegance with such ease. Give it a try—you might just find a new favorite go-to meal!
Print
Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop and Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free, Low Carb
Description
This Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach is a delicious and comforting American main course featuring tender chicken breasts seared and baked with a creamy spinach sauce and melted cheeses. It offers a rich, flavorful meal that’s gluten-free and low carb, perfect for a hearty dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Creamed Spinach Mixture
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 oz fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Season Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts evenly with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to infuse flavor.
- Sear Chicken: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Place the chicken breasts in the hot pan and sear them for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, until both sides turn golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside for the next step.
- Prepare Creamed Spinach: Reduce the heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic to the same skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, approximately 2 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing well until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Combine and Bake: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the creamed spinach mixture over each breast. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with red pepper flakes if desired for a little heat. Serve warm alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or cauliflower mash for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with light cream or half-and-half and use part-skim mozzarella cheese.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or cauliflower mash to complete the dish.
