Chicken with Spinach and Mushrooms Recipe

Irresistible Chicken with Spinach and Mushrooms Recipe

Weeknight dinners demand quick, flavorful solutions that satisfy hunger and delight taste buds.

This easy chicken with spinach and mushrooms recipe delivers a perfect balance of protein and earthy vegetables.

Tender chicken breasts absorb rich, savory flavors from carefully sautéed mushrooms and vibrant spinach.

Every bite promises a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that will make your meal memorable.

The dish comes together effortlessly, requiring minimal prep and cooking time.

Nutritious ingredients combine to create a wholesome meal that feels both comforting and elegant.

Prepare to elevate your dinner routine with this delectable culinary creation that promises to become a family favorite.

Why Chicken with Spinach and Mushrooms Tastes So Good

  • This chicken recipe transforms ordinary ingredients into a mouthwatering meal that comes together faster than ordering takeout.
  • Impress your family or guests with a sophisticated, creamy Parmesan sauce that tastes like it was made by a professional chef.
  • Packed with protein-rich chicken, nutrient-dense spinach, and flavor-packed mushrooms, this one-pan wonder delivers a balanced meal without complicated cooking techniques.
  • Easily adaptable recipe allows you to adjust spice levels, swap ingredients, or make it vegetarian-friendly with simple modifications.

Ingredients for Creamy Parmesan Chicken

Main Protein:
  • Chicken Breasts: A lean and tender meat that serves as the primary protein in this creamy dish.
Aromatic Vegetables:
  • Onion, Garlic: These aromatics provide a deep, savory foundation and enhance the overall flavor profile of the sauce.
Vegetable Mix:
  • Mushrooms, Spinach: Mushrooms add an earthy texture, while spinach brings a fresh, nutritious green element to the recipe.
Sauce Components:
  • Heavy Cream, Chicken Broth: These liquids create a rich, smooth base for the creamy Parmesan sauce.
  • Parmesan Cheese: A sharp, salty cheese that adds depth and helps thicken the sauce.
Seasoning Blend:
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken and vegetables.
  • Italian Seasoning, Red Pepper Flakes: These herbs and spices contribute warmth and a subtle kick to the dish.
Finishing Touch:
  • Fresh Parsley: A bright, herbaceous garnish that adds a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Cooking Fats:
  • Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the chicken and vegetables, providing a subtle, fruity undertone.

Kitchen Gear for Spinach Mushroom Chicken

  • Large skillet: Essential for cooking chicken, sautéing vegetables, and creating the creamy sauce.
  • Cutting board: Perfect for chopping onions, garlic, and mushrooms.
  • Chef's knife: Sharp tool for precise ingredient preparation.
  • Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring and mixing ingredients while cooking.
  • Measuring spoons: Helpful for accurately adding salt, pepper, and seasonings.
  • Cheese grater: Needed to grate fresh Parmesan cheese.
  • Tongs: Useful for handling and flipping chicken during cooking.
  • Serving dish: For presenting the final delicious meal.

Cooking Steps for Creamy Chicken Dinners

Step 1: Prepare Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.

Season generously with salt and black pepper on both sides.

Step 2: Sear Protein

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Transfer to a clean plate and set aside.

Step 3: Build Flavor Base

In the same skillet, sauté ingredients:
  • Chopped onions
  • Minced garlic

Cook for 3-4 minutes until onions become translucent and fragrant.

Step 4: Roast Mushrooms

Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet.

Allow them to brown and caramelize for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Wilt Greens

Introduce fresh spinach leaves to the skillet.

Stir until spinach completely wilts and reduces in volume.

Step 6: Create Luxurious Sauce

Pour into the skillet:
  • Heavy cream
  • Chicken broth

Stir and let the mixture gently simmer.

Step 7: Enhance Sauce

Blend in:
  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Italian seasoning
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)

Cook for 3-4 minutes until sauce thickens and becomes glossy.

Step 8: Reunite Chicken

Return chicken breasts to the skillet.

Spoon sauce generously over the meat.

Warm for 2-3 minutes.

Step 9: Final Touches

Plate the chicken, generously coating with creamy sauce.

Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a vibrant finish.

Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.

Tips for Flavorful, Creamy Chicken

  • Use kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper for deeper flavor that penetrates the chicken more effectively.
  • Pat chicken dry before cooking to achieve a golden-brown crust and prevent steaming instead of browning.
  • Choose cremini or baby bella mushrooms for richer, more robust earthiness in the sauce.
  • If sauce feels too thin, let it simmer longer or add a small amount of cornstarch to thicken without changing the flavor profile.
  • Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a lighter, lower-calorie alternative that maintains creamy texture.

Spinach Chicken Flavor Options

  • Low-Carb Cauliflower Version: Replace chicken breasts with cauliflower steaks, using the same seasoning and cooking method for a vegetarian alternative.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese to create a creamy sauce without dairy.
  • Keto-Friendly Adaptation: Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for higher fat content, and add extra butter to increase the fat percentage while maintaining the original flavor profile.
  • Mediterranean Herb Variation: Swap Italian seasoning with fresh chopped oregano, basil, and thyme, and add kalamata olives for an authentic Mediterranean taste.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Dishes

  • Cozy Dinner Plate Pairing: Serve over fluffy white rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious Parmesan sauce.
  • Elegant Accompaniment: Pair with a crisp side salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
  • Wine Lover's Choice: Complement the rich, creamy dish with a chilled glass of unoaked Chardonnay or a light Pinot Grigio to enhance the flavors.
  • Fresh Herbal Finish: Sprinkle extra chopped fresh parsley or chives on top for a bright, aromatic touch that adds color and freshness to the plate.

Storing Chicken with Spinach

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keeps fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
  • Transfer chicken and sauce to freezer-safe containers. Freeze up to 2 months. Seal tightly to prevent freezer burn.
  • Place chicken and sauce in microwave-safe dish. Cover with damp paper towel. Heat on 50% power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.
  • Warm chicken in skillet over medium-low heat. Add splash of chicken broth to prevent drying. Stir gently until heated thoroughly, about 4-5 minutes.

FAQs

  • Is this dish low-carb friendly?

Yes, this chicken recipe is naturally low-carb and keto-friendly, with minimal carbohydrates from vegetables and no added grains or starches.

  • Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Fresh spinach is recommended for better texture, but you can use thawed and well-drained frozen spinach. Just squeeze out excess moisture before adding to the skillet to prevent a watery sauce.

  • What type of chicken works best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal, but you can also use chicken thighs for a slightly more tender result. Just adjust cooking time based on the cut’s thickness.

  • How can I make this dish more protein-rich?

Consider adding extra Parmesan cheese or sprinkling some additional grated cheese on top before serving to increase the protein content of the meal.

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Chicken with Spinach and Mushrooms Recipe

Chicken with Spinach and Mushrooms Recipe


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4.5 from 9 reviews

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Savory chicken with spinach and mushrooms delivers a delightful Mediterranean-inspired meal packed with rich flavors. Succulent chicken breasts complement earthy mushrooms and tender spinach, creating a satisfying dinner you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

Vegetables and Aromatics:

  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids and Seasonings:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon italian seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Generously season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, ensuring even coverage on both sides.
  2. Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat (375°F). Sear chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer to a plate.
  3. In the same skillet, sauté finely chopped onions for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, releasing aromatic flavors.
  4. Introduce sliced mushrooms to the skillet, cooking for 5 minutes until they develop a rich, caramelized surface and release their moisture.
  5. Gently fold fresh spinach into the skillet, allowing leaves to wilt and reduce in volume, creating a vibrant green base.
  6. Pour heavy cream and chicken broth into the skillet, stirring to create a smooth, bubbling liquid. Allow mixture to simmer gently.
  7. Incorporate grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir continuously for 3-4 minutes until sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
  8. Carefully return seared chicken to the skillet, nestling pieces into the creamy sauce. Spoon sauce over chicken and heat for 2-3 minutes to ensure even warming.
  9. Plate immediately, garnishing with fresh chopped parsley for a bright, herbaceous finish.

Notes

  • Perfectly Season Chicken generously with salt and pepper to enhance flavor and create a delicious golden crust when searing.
  • Avoid Overcooking by using a meat thermometer to check chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F, ensuring juicy and safe meat.
  • Customize Sauce by adjusting spice levels with red pepper flakes or adding extra Parmesan for a richer, more intense cheesy flavor.
  • Make It Lighter by substituting heavy cream with Greek yogurt or half-and-half for a lower-calorie alternative without compromising creamy texture.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 550 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 40 g
  • Cholesterol: 120 mg
Marcus Reed

Marcus Reed

Founder & Food Content Creator

Expertise

Single-recipe development, Seasonal and local ingredient utilization, Food photography and styling, Culinary writing and content creation​

Education

Culinary Arts Certificate, Blue Ridge Community and Technical College, WV
Focus: Fundamentals of culinary techniques, emphasizing hands-on experience in small-scale kitchen settings.


Marcus’s story begins in Asheville, where good food and family kitchens shaped his earliest memories. After hands-on culinary training and a lot of trial (and a little error), he realized that real cooking isn’t about perfection, it’s about connection.
At Pan and Oven, Marcus crafts recipes that are easy to follow, packed with flavor, and built for real kitchens.

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