Italian Chicken with Spinach & Cream Cheese: A Decadent One-Pan Delight

If you're looking for a dish that is both indulgent and easy to prepare, this Creamy Italian Chicken with Spinach & Cream Cheese is the perfect recipe for you! 

Combining tender, juicy chicken with a rich and velvety sauce made from cream cheese, Parmesan, and Italian herbs, this meal is packed with flavor. Plus, the addition of fresh spinach adds a nutritious touch, making it a well-balanced option for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup required!

• Rich & Creamy: The perfect comfort food.

• Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly: Great for those watching their carb intake.

• Customizable: Easily adaptable with different ingredients.

• Ready in 30 Minutes: Quick and easy!

Ingredients

For this creamy Italian chicken dish, you will need:

Chicken & Seasoning:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 small ones)

• 1 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• 1/2 tsp paprika (optional, for color)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp unsalted butter

Creamy Sauce:

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 cup chicken broth

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

• 2 cups fresh baby spinach

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh basil or parsley

• Extra Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create four thinner cutlets.

2. Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

3. Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

4. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

5. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

6. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.

7. Reduce heat to low, add the cream cheese, and stir until melted and smooth.

8. Pour in the heavy cream and mix well.

9. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes.

10. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Add Spinach & Chicken

11. Add the fresh spinach to the sauce and stir until wilted.

12. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over it.

13. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to warm everything through.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

14. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and additional Parmesan cheese.

15. Serve warm over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes—or enjoy as a low-carb meal with steamed veggies.

FAQs

1. Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work well and provide even more juiciness. Adjust the cooking time as needed since thighs may take slightly longer to cook through.

2. How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?

For a dairy-free version, swap out the cream cheese for dairy-free alternatives like cashew cream, and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for added cheesy flavor.

3. What Can I Serve with This Dish?

• Pasta (fettuccine or penne works best!)

• Rice or Quinoa for a heartier meal

• Zucchini Noodles or Cauliflower Rice for a low-carb option

• Garlic Bread for extra indulgence

4. Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes! This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to maintain the sauce's consistency.

5. Can I Freeze This Recipe?

While the chicken itself freezes well, the creamy sauce may separate when thawed. If you do freeze it, reheat slowly and whisk the sauce thoroughly to bring back its creamy texture.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Italian Chicken with Spinach & Cream Cheese is a fantastic recipe that brings comfort and elegance to your table. Whether you serve it for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy family gathering, this dish is bound to impress. Give it a try, and let us know how you enjoyed it!