Delicious One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Spinach in 40 Minutes

Okay, let’s be real. Weeknights? They’re chaos! Between work, kids, and trying to remember if you paid that bill, who has time to cook a fancy dinner? Not me, that’s for sure. I used to rely on takeout way too much. But then I discovered the magic of one-pan meals, and my life changed forever.

Seriously, if you’re looking for a ridiculously easy, healthy, and totally yummy dinner that doesn’t require a ton of cleanup, you’ve GOT to try my *One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Spinach*. It’s a lifesaver! This recipe is perfect if you’re trying to eat low carb, too. It’s packed with protein and veggies, and the creamy sauce is just… *chef’s kiss*. Trust me; this *One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Spinach* will become your new go-to simple chicken recipe!

Why You’ll Love This One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Spinach

Seriously, what’s not to love? This recipe is a game-changer. I mean, who wants to spend hours in the kitchen after a long day? Not me! That’s why I’m obsessed with this *One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Spinach*. Here’s why you’ll be just as hooked:

• Quick and Easy to Make – You’ll have dinner on the table in under 40 minutes. Boom!
• Minimal Cleanup (One Pan!) – My favorite part! Less dishes = more chill time.
• Healthy and Delicious – Packed with protein and veggies, it’s a meal you can feel good about.
• Perfect for Weeknights – Say goodbye to takeout! This is your new weeknight hero.
• Customizable to Your Taste – Add your favorite veggies, cheeses, or spices to make it your own.

Honestly, you can’t go wrong with this one. Give it a try – you’ll thank me later!

Key Ingredients for One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Spinach

Okay, so here’s the deal. This *One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Spinach* recipe is super simple, but each ingredient plays a starring role! Let’s break down the MVPs:

Chicken

We’re talkin’ 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts. This is your protein powerhouse, folks! I like to use breasts ’cause they cook fast, but you could totally swap in thighs if you’re feeling it.

Spinach

Gotta get those greens in! We need 5 oz of spinach. It wilts down like crazy, so don’t be scared by the volume. It adds a pop of color and a bunch of good-for-you stuff. Seriously, don’t skip it!

Onion and Garlic

The dynamic duo! One chopped onion and 2 minced cloves of garlic. These are the aromatics that build the flavor base of the whole dish. Trust me; they make a HUGE difference!

Creamy Sauce

This is where the magic happens! We’re talking 1/2 cup chicken broth, 1/4 cup heavy cream, and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. This combo creates the most amazing creamy texture and flavor that coats the chicken and spinach perfectly. Yum!

Equipment You’ll Need

Alright, let’s talk gear! You don’t need a ton of fancy stuff for this *One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Spinach*, which is another reason why I love it. Here’s the lowdown:

Oven-Safe Skillet

This is key! I usually use a 12-inch skillet. It’s gotta be oven-safe, ’cause we’re gonna sear the chicken on the stovetop and then bake the whole thing in the oven. One pan, people! Less mess!

Cutting Board and Knife

Duh! Gotta chop that onion and mince the garlic somehow, right? A good cutting board and a sharp knife make life so much easier. Keep those fingers safe!

Measuring Cups and Spoons

Okay, I know some people just eyeball everything, but for the best results, let’s measure! It’s important to get the right amount of creamy sauce, ya know?

How to Make One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Spinach: Step-by-Step

Alright, buckle up, buttercups! We’re about to make some magic happen. This *One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Spinach* is so easy, it’s almost ridiculous. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be chowing down in no time!

Preparing the Chicken and Oven

First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 375°F (190°C). Don’t skip this step! A hot oven is key. While the oven’s warming up, grab those chicken breasts and season them like you mean it! Salt and pepper, of course, but feel free to add a little garlic powder or paprika if you’re feeling fancy.

Searing the Chicken

Now, heat up a tablespoon of olive oil in your oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering (but not smoking!), carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear them for 2-3 minutes per side. This step is SO important! Searing creates a beautiful golden-brown crust and locks in all those delicious juices. Trust me, it makes a difference!

Sautéing Vegetables

Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside for a sec. Don’t worry; it’ll be back! Now, add your chopped onion and minced garlic to the same skillet. Cook them until the onion is softened and translucent – about 5 minutes. The aroma will be amazing! Then, toss in your spinach and cook until it’s wilted. It’ll look like a lot at first, but it shrinks down like crazy, so don’t panic.

Creating the Creamy Sauce

Time for the good stuff! Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, and then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. This is where it all comes together, people! Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. (Maybe a pinch more salt?)

Baking the One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Spinach

Okay, almost there! Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into that luscious creamy sauce. Make sure they’re mostly covered. Pop the whole skillet into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. To be absolutely sure, use a meat thermometer! The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). And there you have it! One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Spinach, ready to devour!

Tips for the Best One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Spinach

Alright, listen up! You’ve got the basics down, but let’s talk about some little tricks to make this *One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Spinach* truly amazing. These are the things I’ve learned over many, many batches!

Don’t Overcook the Chicken

Seriously, this is the biggest mistake you can make! Dry chicken is sad chicken. Use a meat thermometer! Pull it out of the oven when it hits 165°F (74°C). It’ll be juicy and perfect, I promise!

Fresh Spinach is Best

Okay, I’m a sucker for fresh spinach. It just tastes better! But, hey, I get it – sometimes you gotta use what you’ve got. If you’re using frozen spinach, make sure you thaw it completely and squeeze out ALL the excess water. Nobody wants a watery sauce!

Adjust Seasoning to Your Liking

Taste, taste, taste! This is YOUR dinner, so make it how YOU like it! Don’t be afraid to add a little extra salt, pepper, garlic powder, or whatever floats your boat. A pinch of red pepper flakes is fantastic if you like a little kick!

One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Spinach Variations

Okay, so you’ve mastered the basic *One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Spinach*? Awesome! Now let’s get a little crazy and mix things up! The best part about this recipe is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

Add Vegetables

Seriously, the possibilities are endless! Sliced mushrooms add an earthy flavor, while chopped bell peppers bring a pop of color and sweetness. Sun-dried tomatoes? YES, please! They add a chewy texture and intense flavor that’s totally addictive. Just toss ’em in with the spinach and you’re good to go!

Use Different Cheese

Parmesan is amazing, but why stop there? Try swapping it out for shredded mozzarella for a gooey, cheesy delight. Gruyere adds a nutty, sophisticated flavor, while Asiago brings a sharp, tangy kick. Experiment and find your favorite combo!

Spice it Up

Feeling a little fiery? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle warmth, or go all-out with a dash of cayenne pepper for some serious heat. Trust me, a little spice can take this dish to a whole new level!

Frequently Asked Questions About One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Spinach

Got questions? I’ve got answers! I’ve made this *One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Spinach* more times than I can count, so I’ve heard it all. Here are a few of the most common questions I get asked:

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! I love using boneless, skinless chicken thigh recipes sometimes ’cause they’re super juicy and flavorful. Just keep in mind that they might need a little extra time in the oven to cook through, so keep an eye on that internal temperature!

Can I make this ahead of time?

Hmm, good question! You *could* prep the components ahead of time – chop the veggies, season the chicken – but honestly, this dish is best when it’s baked fresh. The creamy sauce can get a little weird if it sits for too long. So, I’d recommend making it right before you’re ready to eat.

How should I store leftovers?

If you’re lucky enough to have any leftovers (it rarely happens in my house!), just pop them into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll be good for about 3-4 days. Reheat them gently in the microwave or in a skillet on the stovetop. You might need to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen up the sauce. Enjoy!

Nutritional Information for One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Spinach

Okay, quick note: the nutrition info can vary depending on the brands and ingredients you use, so this is just an estimate, okay? Don’t come at me if it’s not exact!

Enjoying Your One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Spinach

Alright, you did it! You made a killer *One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Spinach*! Now, the best part: EATING! But before you dig in, do me a favor? Leave a comment below and let me know what you think! Did you love it? Did you tweak it? I wanna hear all about it! And hey, if you enjoyed the recipe, give it a little rating, and share it with your friends on social media! Sharing is caring, right?

For more delicious recipes and inspiration, check out RecipesQuik on Pinterest!

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