Savory Garlic Mushroom Chicken with Spinach
Description
Savory Garlic Mushroom Chicken with Spinach is a cozy, restaurant-style dish made in one pan. Juicy chicken breasts are pan-seared until golden, then simmered in a creamy garlic mushroom sauce with tender spinach folded in at the end. It’s elegant enough for guests but easy enough for a busy weeknight.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini work well)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup light cream
- 2 cups fresh spinach (added during cooking)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken
Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt and black pepper. - Sear the chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. - Cook mushrooms & garlic
In the same skillet, melt butter. Add mushrooms and cook for 4–5 minutes until softened and lightly browned. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. - Make the sauce
Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Simmer for 3–4 minutes. Stir in light cream and reduce heat to low. - Add spinach & chicken
Add spinach and stir until wilted. Return chicken to the skillet and simmer gently for 3–5 minutes, spooning sauce over the top. - Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve warm with your favorite side.
Recipe Notes
- Pound chicken slightly for even thickness and faster cooking.
- Use fresh spinach for best texture; frozen spinach should be thawed and squeezed dry.
- The sauce thickens slightly as it rests.
Tips & Variations
- Extra flavor: Add a pinch of Italian seasoning or thyme.
- Dairy-free: Swap cream for coconut milk or cashew cream.
- Low-carb: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
- More veggies: Add onions, sun-dried tomatoes, or asparagus.
- Cheesy finish: Sprinkle Parmesan on top just before serving.
Servings
- Serves: 2–3 people
- Serving size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
Approximate Nutritional Information (per serving)
(Based on 2 servings; values may vary)
- Calories: ~420
- Protein: ~38g
- Fat: ~28g
- Carbohydrates: ~7g
- Fiber: ~2g
- Sodium: ~420mg
Health Benefits
- Chicken breast provides lean, high-quality protein.
- Mushrooms are rich in antioxidants and B vitamins.
- Spinach adds iron, fiber, and vitamin A & C.
- Garlic supports heart and immune health.
- Balanced fats help with nutrient absorption and satiety.
Q & A
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead?
A: Yes! Boneless thighs work great—just cook a bit longer.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: You can cook the chicken and sauce ahead, then reheat gently and add spinach just before serving.
Q: What goes well with this dish?
A: Rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, quinoa, or crusty bread all pair beautifully.