Garlic Parmesan Chicken With Spinach

Garlic Parmesan Chicken With Spinach is a delightful dish that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with tender chicken and fresh spinach. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or special occasions, offering a comforting meal that everyone will love. The standout feature of this dish is its rich garlic flavor paired with the nutty notes of Parmesan cheese, making it an instant favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful and Rich: The combination of garlic, cream, and cheese creates a sauce that bursts with flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use this recipe as a base to add your favorite vegetables or substitute proteins to suit your taste.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its creamy texture and savory taste, it’s sure to impress family and friends at any gathering.
• Comfort Food: This dish embodies the essence of comfort food, providing warmth and satisfaction in every serving.

Tools and Preparation

To make Garlic Parmesan Chicken With Spinach, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will ensure your cooking process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Essential for sautéing the chicken and creating the creamy sauce.
• Pot for boiling pasta: A must-have for cooking rigatoni perfectly al dente.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accuracy in ingredient amounts for the best results.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for mixing ingredients without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

For the Pasta

• 12 oz rigatoni pasta

For the Sauce

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 tbsp butter
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups baby spinach
• 1½ cups heavy cream
• 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened and cubed
• 1¼ cups grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ¼ cup reserved pasta water, as needed
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken With Spinach

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil the rigatoni pasta in generously salted water until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup of the pasta water before draining. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter.
1. Add seasoned chicken to the skillet.
2. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 6–7 minutes.
3. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

In the same skillet:
1. Reduce heat to medium.
2. Add remaining 2 tablespoons of butter along with minced garlic.
3. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Toss in baby spinach and cook until just wilted.

Step 4: Combine Creamy Ingredients

Pour in heavy cream into the skillet:
1. Stir in cream cheese until melted and smooth.
2. Gradually add grated Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella while stirring constantly until you achieve a thick, rich sauce.
3. If needed, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.

Step 5: Mix It All Together

Add cooked rigatoni and sautéed chicken into the creamy mixture:
1. Stir gently until everything is well coated in sauce.

Step 6: Serve

Plate up your Garlic Parmesan Chicken With Spinach:
1. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan if desired.
2. Serve hot!

Enjoy this delicious meal that brings comfort to your table!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken With Spinach

Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Spinach is a deliciously creamy dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.

On a Bed of Greens

• Use fresh arugula or mixed greens as a base. The peppery flavors of the greens will complement the richness of the chicken and sauce.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve with slices of crusty bread for dipping. The bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce, adding a delightful texture.

Over Quinoa

• For a healthier twist, serve the chicken over cooked quinoa. This adds a nutty flavor and extra protein to your meal.

In a Wrap

• Place the chicken mix in a tortilla wrap for a quick lunch option. Add some crunchy vegetables for added freshness and crunch.

Paired with Garlic Bread

• A side of garlic bread enhances the garlic flavor in your main dish. It’s an excellent way to enjoy every bite.

Topped with Extra Cheese

• Sprinkle additional cheese on top before serving for an even cheesier experience. Broil it briefly for a bubbly finish.

How to Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken With Spinach

Creating the ultimate Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Spinach requires attention to detail and some handy tips. Follow these suggestions for the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality cheeses make a big difference in flavor. Choose fresh spinach for added nutrients and taste.

• Don’t Overcook Chicken: Cook chicken just until golden brown and fully cooked through. This keeps it tender and juicy.

• Adjust Sauce Thickness: If your sauce is too thick, add more reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

• Experiment with Cheeses: While Parmesan is essential, try mixing in other cheeses like Asiago or Pecorino Romano for added depth of flavor.

• Season Generously: Taste your sauce as you cook and adjust seasoning as needed. A pinch more salt or pepper can elevate the dish significantly.

• Let It Rest: Allow the finished dish to sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Parmesan Chicken With Spinach

Pairing side dishes with Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Spinach can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition, balancing the richness of the main dish.

2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized brings out their natural sweetness, offering contrast to the creamy sauce.

3. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with croutons and Caesar dressing provides crunch and complements the flavors of the chicken.

4. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes serve as a comforting side that pairs well with rich sauces, making every bite satisfying.

5. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs makes an excellent base for soaking up any leftover sauce from your plate.

6. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus adds an elegant touch while providing earthy notes that harmonize nicely with garlic flavors.

7. Couscous Salad: A refreshing couscous salad mixed with diced vegetables offers lightness and complements the hearty chicken dish well.

8. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve spiralized zucchini noodles tossed lightly in olive oil; they provide freshness without heaviness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic Parmesan Chicken With Spinach, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here’s how to avoid them.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can dry it out. Ensure you cook until golden and fully cooked but still tender, about 6–7 minutes.
• Ignoring Pasta Water: Forgetting to reserve pasta water can lead to a sauce that’s too thick. Always set aside some before draining the pasta for better consistency.
• Not Seasoning Properly: Skipping seasoning can result in bland flavors. Season your chicken and sauce generously with salt and pepper for a richer taste.
• Using Cold Cream Cheese: Adding cold cream cheese can create lumps in the sauce. Soften it first by letting it sit at room temperature or microwaving it briefly before use.
• Cooking Spinach Too Long: Overcooking spinach can cause it to lose its bright color and nutrients. Cook just until wilted for the best flavor and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Garlic Parmesan Chicken With Spinach

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers and consume within 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Garlic Parmesan Chicken With Spinach

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil, heat for 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until heated evenly.
• Stovetop: Use medium heat on a skillet, add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed, and stir occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Garlic Parmesan Chicken With Spinach?

Garlic Parmesan Chicken With Spinach is a delicious dish featuring tender chicken pieces sautéed with garlic and spinach in a rich creamy sauce.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! While Parmesan adds great flavor, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Asiago or Pecorino for different taste profiles.

How can I make this dish healthier?

You can substitute heavy cream with a lighter alternative like half-and-half or even Greek yogurt for a lower-calorie version while still maintaining creaminess.

What sides pair well with Garlic Parmesan Chicken With Spinach?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. It also goes great alongside crusty bread for dipping!

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Parmesan Chicken With Spinach is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it by swapping out proteins or adding different vegetables based on your preferences. Try this recipe today and enjoy the creamy goodness that everyone will love!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Garlic Parmesan Chicken With Spinach

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• Author: Saphira
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Garlic Parmesan Chicken With Spinach is a creamy, savory dish that brings together tender chicken and fresh spinach in a rich garlic-infused sauce. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this comforting meal is quick to prepare, taking just 35 minutes from start to finish. The delightful combination of melted cheese, minced garlic, and buttery sauce makes every bite irresistible, ensuring this recipe will become an instant favorite at your table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 12 oz rigatoni pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 tbsp butter
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups baby spinach
• 1½ cups heavy cream
• 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened and cubed
• 1¼ cups grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ¼ cup reserved pasta water, as needed
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Cook rigatoni in salted water until al dente; reserve ¼ cup pasta water and drain.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. In a skillet over medium-high heat, sauté chicken in olive oil and butter until golden brown (about 6–7 minutes). Remove from skillet.
3. In the same skillet, reduce heat; add remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds before adding spinach until wilted.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir in cream cheese until smooth. Gradually incorporate Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses until thickened; use reserved pasta water to adjust consistency if necessary.
5. Combine cooked rigatoni and chicken in the sauce; stir gently to coat evenly.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley and additional Parmesan if desired.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
• Calories: 620
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 38g
• Saturated Fat: 22g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 150mg