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In the realm of comforting home-cooked meals, few dishes can rival the rich and satisfying flavors of creamy garlic chicken and spinach. This delectable skillet recipe effortlessly combines tender chicken breasts, fresh spinach, and a luscious creamy sauce infused with aromatic garlic and herbs, making it an ideal weeknight dinner option for busy families and culinary enthusiasts alike. With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a total cooking time of around 30 minutes, this dish not only saves precious time but also delivers on taste and nutrition, ensuring that you can enjoy a homemade meal without the hassle.

Creamy Garlic Chicken and Spinach Skillet

Discover the comforting flavors of creamy garlic chicken and spinach skillet, a quick and nutritious weeknight meal perfect for busy families. This delightful dish features tender chicken breasts, fresh spinach, and a rich, creamy sauce infused with aromatic garlic. With a total prep and cook time of just 30 minutes, you can savor a homemade meal that's both satisfying and delicious. Explore the balance of flavors and nutrients in this Italian-inspired recipe that promises to warm hearts and please palates.
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Ingredients
  

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon dried thyme

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

4 cups fresh spinach, rinsed and dried

1 cup heavy cream

½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken: Begin by patting the chicken breasts dry using paper towels. This will help achieve a nice sear. Season both sides generously with salt, freshly cracked black pepper, smoked paprika, and dried thyme, ensuring an even coating.

    Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for approximately 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and transfer it to a plate, keeping it warm.

      Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until it becomes fragrant but is not browned, to avoid bitterness.

        Add the Spinach: Introduce the fresh spinach to the skillet. Gently fold the spinach into the garlic and cook for around 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach has wilted down significantly.

          Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet, followed by adding the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning. Stir the mixture thoroughly to combine all the ingredients, and bring it to a gentle simmer. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened slightly.

            Combine and Heat Through: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them in the creamy sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over each chicken piece. Let everything cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat thoroughly and meld the flavors.

              Garnish and Serve: Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top as a bright garnish. Plate the creamy garlic chicken and spinach skillet warm, paired with your choice of side dishes—mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or warm crusty bread are all excellent options.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 min | 30 min | 4 servings