The Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach Recipe is a comforting classic that feels like a warm hug on a plate. This dish perfectly combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a rich, creamy spinach sauce that’s indulgent without being overwhelming. Every bite offers a beautiful balance of savory flavors, from the garlic-infused spinach to the melty mozzarella topping. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe brings a touch of elegance and satisfying home-cooked goodness to your table, making it an instant favorite.

Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach Recipe are straightforward but pack a flavorful punch. Each element plays a vital role, ensuring a perfect harmony of taste, texture, and vibrant color that turns a simple meal into something memorable.

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, juicy and easy to cook through.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the dish.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and warmth.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the chicken with a subtle savory depth.
2 tablespoons olive oil: For perfectly crisped chicken and healthy fat.
2 tablespoons butter: Brings rich flavor to the creamed spinach base.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds an aromatic punch.
4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped: The star green that’s velvety and full of nutrients.
1/2 cup heavy cream: Creates that luscious, silky texture the sauce is known for.
1/4 cup cream cheese, softened: Adds creaminess and tang, balancing the spinach.
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers savory sharpness and umami.
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top with a golden finish.
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle heat twist if you like a bit of spice.

How to Make Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach Recipe

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by seasoning each chicken breast generously on both sides with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. This seasoning blend creates a flavorful crust during cooking. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the chicken breasts. Cook them for 6 to 7 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden-brown color and are cooked through. The olive oil ensures that crispy exterior every chicken lover craves. Once they’re done, carefully remove the chicken and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamed Spinach Base

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook just long enough—about 30 seconds—for it to release its aroma without burning. Toss in the chopped fresh spinach and cook until wilted, approximately 2 to 3 minutes. This quick wilt softens the spinach, allowing it to blend seamlessly into the creamy sauce that comes next.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream, then add the softened cream cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir all the ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and bubbling gently. This luscious sauce clings to the spinach, creating the indulgent base that perfectly complements the chicken.

Step 4: Smother the Chicken and Melt the Cheese

Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them right into the creamed spinach. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly across the tops of each piece of chicken. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low, allowing the cheese to melt over 3 to 5 minutes. The result is a tantalizingly cheesy topping that seals in juiciness and flavor.

How to Serve Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can brighten this rich dish beautifully. Try a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and mild oniony freshness. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice adds brightness and balances the creaminess in a delightful way.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs brilliantly with a variety of sides. For a low-carb option, serve with steamed green beans or cauliflower rice to keep the meal light yet satisfying. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, creamy mashed potatoes or buttery roasted carrots make excellent companions, soaking up every bit of that delicious creamed spinach sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, place the smothered chicken on a bed of rice or pasta to capture extra sauce. Alternatively, serve individual portions in small cast-iron skillets to keep the warmth and add rustic charm to your table. You can even sprinkle a little extra Parmesan and chopped herbs right before serving to make it look like a gourmet restaurant dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the dish completely before storing to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.

Freezing

To freeze, arrange the cooked chicken and creamed spinach in a freezer-safe container. It’s best to freeze in individual portions so you can thaw only what you need. For quality and flavor, consume frozen leftovers within 1 to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, covering the pan to keep moisture locked in. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short bursts, stirring occasionally to warm the creamed spinach evenly and prevent the chicken from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen spinach works well as a substitute. Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out excess water before adding to the skillet, so your sauce doesn’t become watery.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, the Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach Recipe is keto-friendly thanks to its low-carb ingredients like spinach, cream, and cheese while avoiding any starchy fillers. It’s perfect for a low-carb meal plan.

What can I serve if I want a lower-fat version?

To lighten things up, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese and mozzarella, and swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a lighter cream alternative. Keep in mind this might slightly change the creamy texture but will still taste delicious.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is cooked through when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part to ensure there’s no pink and the juices run clear.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Making this completely dairy-free would need some substitutions, like coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. The flavor will vary somewhat, but it’s definitely possible to adapt for dietary needs.

Final Thoughts

This Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach Recipe is one of those dishes you find yourself craving again and again. Its creamy, cheesy spinach paired with perfectly cooked chicken creates a comforting meal that feels both indulgent and nourishing. Whether you cook it on a busy weeknight or for guests, it’s sure to impress and satisfy. Give it a try and watch it become a quick favorite in your recipe collection!

Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 39 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

A delicious and comforting Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach recipe featuring tender chicken breasts cooked to perfection and smothered in a rich, creamy spinach sauce topped with melted mozzarella cheese. This low-carb, keto-friendly dish is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced

Creamed Spinach

4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides evenly with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to enhance the flavor.
Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6 to 7 minutes per side until they develop a golden-brown crust and are cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Creamed Spinach Base: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, ensuring it does not burn.
Cook the Spinach: Add the roughly chopped fresh spinach to the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until wilted, stirring occasionally to evenly cook the greens.
Make the Cream Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, softened cream cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring gently until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and bubbly.
Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamed spinach mixture evenly.
Add Mozzarella and Melt: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of each chicken breast. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, or until the mozzarella is fully melted and bubbly.
Serve: Serve the smothered chicken warm, spooning extra creamed spinach on the side if desired. Enjoy immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

For a low-carb meal, serve with cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables to keep it keto-friendly.
You can substitute frozen spinach (thawed and thoroughly squeezed dry) if fresh spinach is unavailable without compromising flavor.
Adjust crushed red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level or omit for a milder dish.
To ensure even cooking, pound chicken breasts to an even thickness if needed.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American