Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the Chicken: Season both sides of each chicken breast with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Spinach Parmesan Sauce
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
- Make a Roux: Add butter to the skillet and let it melt. Sprinkle in flour (or cornstarch) and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to cook the flour and form a roux.
- Add Liquid: Gradually whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream (or half-and-half) until smooth and combined. Bring to a simmer.
- Add Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Spinach: Add chopped spinach to the sauce and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted and the sauce is creamy.
Step 3: Combine and Serve
- Return Chicken to the Skillet: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce.
- Simmer: Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for another 2-3 minutes to heat through and allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Serve the creamy chicken breasts with spinach Parmesan sauce hot, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Creamy Chicken in Spinach Parmesan Sauce
- Cooking Chicken: Make sure to cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Sauce Consistency: Adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding more or less chicken broth or cream according to your preference.
- Fresh Spinach: Use fresh baby spinach for best results, as it wilts quickly and adds a vibrant color to the dish.
Pairing Suggestions
Complement your Creamy Chicken in Spinach Parmesan Sauce with these delicious sides:
- Pasta: Serve over cooked pasta or creamy mashed potatoes.
- Roasted Vegetables: Enjoy with a side of roasted vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, or carrots.
- Garlic Bread: A slice of garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce.
Final Thoughts
We hope you enjoy making this Creamy Chicken Breast in Spinach Parmesan Sauce! It’s a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home. Serve it to impress your family or guests, and savor the creamy, spinach-infused sauce with tender chicken breasts. Happy cooking!