As the days start to warm up, I find myself daydreaming about gatherings filled with laughter, delicious food, and the joy of shared moments. One dish that has secured its place in my top favorites for such occasions is Spinach and Artichoke Chicken. It’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with a range of sides.
Let me set the scene: picture creamy chicken topped with the earthy goodness of artichokes and the vibrant pop of spinach, all nestled on a plate beside roasted vegetables or a light pasta salad. Yes, you read that right! Italian Pasta Salad, with its zesty dressing and crunch from fresh veggies, complements this dish. The interplay of flavors makes for a delightful and satisfying meal.
What is Spinach and Artichoke Chicken?
Spinach and Artichoke Chicken is a hearty yet elegant dish that takes inspiration from the classic spinach and artichoke dip.
It features tender chicken breasts, smothered in a creamy mixture of spinach, artichoke hearts, and a few surprise ingredients that elevate the dish. The result is a savory, cheesy delight that can steal the show at any dinner table.
The Ingredients
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 to 1.25 pounds total)
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon neutral cooking oil (such as avocado or canola oil)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes
- 4 ounces fresh baby spinach leaves
- 1 (12 oz) jar quartered artichoke hearts packed in water, drained
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
This combination really delivers a satisfying punch—each bite is a taste sensation!
How to Make Spinach and Artichoke Chicken
Before diving into the details, let me assure you that the cooking process is straightforward and user-friendly. Soon, you’ll be enjoying this delectable dish that looks like it belongs in a five-star restaurant.
Step by Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the garlic, drain the artichoke hearts, and wash the spinach. Having everything at arm’s reach makes cooking a breeze. Trust me, it’s a small effort that pays off immensely.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the neutral cooking oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Sear each side for about 6-7 minutes until they are golden brown. You want a nice crust, so resist the urge to flip them prematurely.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
Once the chicken is seared, remove it from the skillet and let it rest. In the same pan, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about a minute until it’s fragrant. Don’t rush—this step builds layers of flavor.
Now, it’s time to create the sauce. Whisk together cream cheese, sour cream, chicken broth, milk, Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and onion powder in the skillet. Stir continuously, letting the mixture come together into a smooth, creamy sauce.
Step 4: Add Spinach and Artichoke
Once the sauce is creamy, fold in the spinach and the artichokes. Cook this luscious mixture for another 2-3 minutes, just enough to wilt the spinach and warm the artichokes. The whole kitchen will start to smell divine!
Step 5: Combine and Cook
Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over each breast. Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This lazy time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, yielding juicy chicken and a rich sauce.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Once done, plate your chicken, making sure to pour extra sauce on top. Garnish with more Parmesan or even a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you’re feeling fancy.
Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh spinach instead of frozen. The texture and flavor are significantly better.
- Adjust the Spice: If you like heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes or even some chili powder.
- Cream Cheese Consistency: Make sure to soften cream cheese for easy mixing. Leaving it out for about 30 minutes will do the trick.
- Chicken Substitutes: This dish also works well with turkey breasts or even thinly sliced pork.
- Vegan Version: You can recreate this using plant-based cream cheese and chicken alternatives for a vegan option.
Storage Tips
- Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. The Spinach and Artichoke Chicken will last in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the dish in a secure container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Reheat gently in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of broth if the sauce thickens too much during storage.
Nutrition Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional content per serving (assuming roughly 4 servings from the recipe):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
This dish provides a good balance of protein and fat while remaining relatively low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for various dietary preferences.
Serving Suggestions
To complete your meal, consider pairing Spinach and Artichoke Chicken with these side dishes:
- Roasted Vegetables: Vibrant, roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots add a colorful and nutritious touch to your plate. The caramelization enhances their natural sugars, creating a delicious contrast to the creaminess of the chicken.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Who can resist a bowl of homemade mashed potatoes? Their creaminess and heartiness act as the perfect canvas for the rich sauce from the chicken. Plus, it’s a comfort food classic!
- Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the chicken. It refreshes the palate between bites.
- Garlic Bread: This classic side is a hit! The crunchy, buttery bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce. It’s an absolute must.
- Pasta Salad: As mentioned earlier, an Italian Pasta Salad with chickpeas and a zesty dressing offers a fun twist. The freshness of the veggies and tangy dressing align well with this dish.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Spinach and Artichoke Chicken?
If you’re looking to swap out any ingredients, consider these alternatives:
- Greek Yogurt: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangy flavor with extra protein. It keeps things healthy while maintaining creaminess.
- Canned Spinach: While fresh is best, you can use canned spinach if that’s what you have on hand. Just drain and squeeze it dry before mixing it in to avoid excess moisture.
- Cauliflower Rice: If you’re down for a low-carb option, serve the chicken on a bed of cauliflower rice instead of traditional grains.
- Nutritional Yeast: For a dairy-free version, nutritional yeast can be a cheese substitute that provides a savory, umami flavor without the lactose.
- Canned Artichokes: Fresh artichokes are great, but canned artichokes do just fine in a pinch; just be sure to rinse them well to cut down on excess sodium.
Conclusion
Dive into the rich and cheesy indulgence of Spinach and Artichoke Chicken, and I can promise it will bring a smile to anyone’s face. Whether you’ve got a small gathering or a family dinner, this dish holds its own every time.
\With its delightful textures and comforting flavors, this recipe is destined to become a staple in your culinary arsenal. So, roll up your sleeves and get cooking! You’ll soon find that this creamy delight not only fills your belly but also warms your heart. Enjoy every last bite, and don’t forget to share your experience! Happy cooking!
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Spinach and Artichoke Chicken – Hearty Food Ideas
Description
As the days start to warm up, I find myself daydreaming about gatherings filled with laughter, delicious food, and the joy of shared moments. One dish that has secured its place in my top favorites for such occasions is Spinach and Artichoke Chicken. It’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with a range of sides.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
-
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the garlic, drain the artichoke hearts, and wash the spinach. Having everything at arm’s reach makes cooking a breeze. Trust me, it’s a small effort that pays off immensely.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
-
Heat the neutral cooking oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Sear each side for about 6-7 minutes until they are golden brown. You want a nice crust, so resist the urge to flip them prematurely.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
-
Once the chicken is seared, remove it from the skillet and let it rest. In the same pan, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about a minute until it’s fragrant. Don’t rush—this step builds layers of flavor.
Now, it’s time to create the sauce. Whisk together cream cheese, sour cream, chicken broth, milk, Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and onion powder in the skillet. Stir continuously, letting the mixture come together into a smooth, creamy sauce.
Step 4: Add Spinach and Artichoke
-
Once the sauce is creamy, fold in the spinach and the artichokes. Cook this luscious mixture for another 2-3 minutes, just enough to wilt the spinach and warm the artichokes. The whole kitchen will start to smell divine!
Step 5: Combine and Cook
-
Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over each breast. Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This lazy time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, yielding juicy chicken and a rich sauce.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
-
Once done, plate your chicken, making sure to pour extra sauce on top. Garnish with more Parmesan or even a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you’re feeling fancy.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 350kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 20g31%
- Total Carbohydrate 8g3%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Protein 35g70%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh spinach instead of frozen. The texture and flavor are significantly better.
- Adjust the Spice: If you like heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes or even some chili powder.
- Cream Cheese Consistency: Make sure to soften cream cheese for easy mixing. Leaving it out for about 30 minutes will do the trick.
- Chicken Substitutes: This dish also works well with turkey breasts or even thinly sliced pork.
- Vegan Version: You can recreate this using plant-based cream cheese and chicken alternatives for a vegan option.
