Go Back

High Protein Creamy Spinach Chicken - A Comforting, Weeknight-Friendly Favorite

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5–2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3–4 medium), patted dry
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or sweet paprika)
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for gentle heat)
  • 3–4 cups fresh baby spinach, loosely packed
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon (about 1 tablespoon), plus wedges for serving
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Method
 

  1. Season the chicken: Slice thicker breasts in half horizontally to make cutlets. Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and onion powder.
  2. Sear until golden: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add chicken and sear 4–5 minutes per side until browned. Transfer to a plate; it will finish cooking in the sauce.
  3. Build the flavor base: Lower heat to medium. Add butter to the skillet. Stir in garlic and cook 30–60 seconds until fragrant, scraping up browned bits.
  4. Thicken the sauce: Sprinkle in flour and cook 30 seconds, stirring. Slowly whisk in chicken broth until smooth. Simmer 2 minutes to slightly thicken.
  5. Make it creamy: Stir in cream, Dijon, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer 2–3 minutes, stirring, until the sauce coats a spoon.
  6. Finish the chicken: Return chicken and any juices to the pan. Simmer 3–5 minutes until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  7. Add spinach and cheese: Stir in spinach in batches until wilted. Add parmesan and stir until melted and smooth. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Brighten and serve: Squeeze in lemon juice to wake up the flavors. Garnish with parsley. Serve hot with your favorite sides.