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Smothered Chicken with Spinach: A Delicious and Healthy Recipe to Try

Enjoy a comforting and creamy smothered chicken with spinach, featuring tender chicken breasts in a rich sauce. This dish is perfect for any weeknight dinner and pairs well with your favorite sides.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme, rubbing the spices into the chicken for even flavor.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Check for doneness by cutting into the thickest part; it should be no longer pink.
  3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and cover with aluminum foil to keep warm.
  4. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
  5. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, stirring frequently.
  6. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to deglaze.
  7. Bring the broth to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
  8. Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream until smooth.
  9. Add chopped spinach and stir until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  10. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, coating it with the creamy spinach sauce.
  11. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken and sauce.
  12. Cover the skillet and cook on low heat for 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  13. Remove from heat and let sit for a minute to thicken.
  14. Spoon the creamy spinach sauce over the chicken and garnish with chopped parsley.
  15. Serve with your favorite side dishes like rice, mashed potatoes, or a green salad.

Notes

  • For added vegetables, consider including mushrooms or bell peppers when sautéing the onions.
  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative.
  • This dish can be made ahead and reheated gently to avoid overcooking the chicken.