Creamy Garlic Chicken and Spinach Skillet | Easy One-Pan Weeknight Dinner

Creamy garlic chicken and spinach skillet is the ultimate go-to when you want something quick, satisfying, and full of flavor. This one-pan dish combines tender seared chicken breasts with a rich garlic cream sauce and fresh spinach for a complete meal in under 35 minutes.

Perfect for busy nights, it’s both comforting and easy to make, using pantry staples and a handful of fresh ingredients. Whether you’re serving it over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta, this skillet meal delivers bold flavor without the mess.

In this guide, you’ll get the exact ingredients and measurements, step-by-step cooking instructions, smart variations, storage tips, and answers to popular questions about how to make creamy garlic chicken from scratch.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Chicken and Spinach Skillet

Creamy garlic chicken recipes are classic for good reason. This skillet version brings simplicity and bold taste together in one pan. Here’s what makes it a repeat-worthy favorite:

• Everything cooks in one skillet, reducing dishes and cleanup
• Golden-seared chicken breasts stay moist and flavorful
• Homemade garlic cream sauce comes together with just a few ingredients
• Fresh spinach adds nutrients and bright color
• Perfect for family dinners or guests without spending hours in the kitchen

For a similar garlic-forward comfort meal, check out this creamy chicken noodle soup recipe that also uses familiar ingredients and easy steps.

Creamy Garlic Chicken Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this creamy garlic chicken dinner plays a key role in making it rich, flavorful, and balanced. Use fresh, high-quality ingredients when possible for best results.

• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (or 4 thin-sliced cutlets)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing the chicken)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (to build the sauce base)
• 4 garlic cloves, finely minced (for bold garlic flavor)
• 1 cup chicken broth, low sodium (for deglazing and depth)
• 1 cup heavy cream (to make the sauce creamy and rich)
• 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese (for thickness and salty flavor)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a blend of dried oregano, thyme, and basil)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
• 3 cups fresh baby spinach (lightly packed)
• Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

This skillet recipe comes together with minimal prep and cooks in stages to layer the flavors. If you like meals like chicken scampi with garlic parmesan rice, you’ll appreciate how creamy garlic chicken delivers similar richness in a low-effort format.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken and Spinach Skillet

Creamy garlic chicken doesn’t need complicated steps. With this method, the chicken stays juicy, the sauce becomes velvety, and the spinach blends in smoothly.

1. Slice and season the chicken
   Cut the chicken breasts in half horizontally to make four thinner cutlets. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning.
2. Sear the chicken
   In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Sear the chicken cutlets for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Make the garlic cream sauce
   In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and stir for 30–45 seconds until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth, scraping up brown bits from the bottom. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes.
4. Add the cream and cheese
   Reduce heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and remaining Italian seasoning. Let simmer for 3–4 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Add spinach and return chicken
   Add spinach and stir until wilted. Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over the top. Simmer on low for 2 minutes, then turn off heat.

For a hearty baked alternative, try this one pan chicken and rice bake that combines protein and starch in one casserole.

What to Serve with Creamy Garlic Chicken and Spinach

This creamy garlic chicken recipe pairs well with both starches and vegetables. The garlic cream sauce is perfect for spooning over sides that soak up flavor.

• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes balance the richness of the sauce
• White or brown rice: A simple base to absorb the garlic and parmesan notes
• Buttered egg noodles: Quick and kid-friendly side for this garlic chicken recipe
• Steamed green beans or asparagus: Fresh greens to complement the spinach
• Garlic bread or crusty rolls: Ideal for scooping every last bit of sauce

If you’re looking for a versatile protein to prep ahead, check out this boneless skinless chicken thighs recipe that works with any sauce, including this one.

Creamy Garlic Chicken Variations & Customizations

This creamy garlic chicken skillet can be adapted to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are easy ways to switch things up:

• Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for extra juiciness and flavor
• Add mushrooms for an earthier variation with more texture
• Swap spinach with kale for a heartier green that holds its texture
• Use light cream or half-and-half for a lower-fat version (sauce will be thinner)
• Add red pepper flakes for a mild heat boost to balance the cream
• Serve over cauliflower mash for a lower-carb option

Love rich sauces? This marry me chicken crock pot is another great creamy chicken variation to try.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Garlic Chicken

This creamy garlic chicken recipe keeps well in the fridge and reheats without losing texture when handled properly.

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• To reheat on stovetop: Add chicken and sauce to a skillet over medium-low heat. Stir in a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce. Heat until warmed through.
• To reheat in microwave: Cover loosely and heat in 60-second intervals, stirring between to avoid overheating. Add broth or cream as needed.

Avoid boiling the sauce when reheating to prevent it from separating.

Pro Tips for Creamy Garlic Chicken Success

Master this creamy garlic chicken dinner every time with these kitchen-tested techniques.

• Cut chicken evenly to ensure uniform cooking in the skillet
• Sear over medium-high heat to lock in juices and create golden crust
• Use fresh garlic rather than jarred for maximum flavor
• Add cheese off heat to prevent clumping or separating
• Stir the sauce gently once cream is added to avoid breaking
• Let chicken rest in sauce at the end to absorb more flavor

For more skillet-based tips, refer to similar creamy recipes like garlic parmesan chicken pasta, or simple chicken scampi preparations.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Creamy Garlic Chicken and Spinach

Small missteps can affect the texture or flavor of your sauce. Here’s what to watch for:

• Overcooking the chicken leads to dryness. Always remove it once internal temp hits 165°F.
• Adding cream too early can cause it to curdle. Wait until after the broth simmers.
• Boiling the sauce breaks the emulsion. Keep it at a low simmer once cream is added.
• Using pre-shredded parmesan may create a gritty sauce. Fresh grated works best.
• Skipping spinach or undercooking it leaves bitter flavors. Stir it in just until wilted.
• Not deglazing the skillet means leaving flavor behind. Always scrape up brown bits with broth.

FAQs About Creamy Garlic Chicken and Spinach Skillet

What goes well with creamy garlic chicken and spinach skillet?

This creamy garlic chicken pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice. Vegetables like green beans, steamed broccoli, or asparagus also balance the richness. A simple arugula or Caesar salad adds freshness.

Can I use frozen spinach in creamy garlic chicken and spinach skillet?

Yes. Thaw frozen spinach and squeeze out all excess water before adding it to the sauce. Add it near the end and stir until warmed through. Frozen spinach may be slightly softer but still works well.

What type of cream is best for creamy garlic chicken recipes?

Heavy cream or heavy whipping cream provides the richest texture and thickens best without curdling. You can use half-and-half, but the sauce will be thinner and may need longer to reduce.

How do you thicken creamy garlic chicken sauce?

Let the sauce simmer gently uncovered for a few extra minutes. You can also add more grated parmesan or a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water) if needed. Avoid boiling after cream is added.

Creamy Garlic Chicken and Spinach Skillet | Easy One-Pan Weeknight Dinner

Author: Ellie Courses: Dinner