When you need a comforting dinner that feels restaurant-quality but comes together quickly, this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Spinach delivers every time. Juicy pan-seared chicken breasts are simmered in a rich garlic butter cream sauce, finished with tender spinach for balance and color. It’s a one-pan recipe designed for busy evenings, minimal cleanup, and maximum flavor.
This dish pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes, making it versatile for family dinners or casual entertaining. The creamy sauce clings perfectly to every bite, while the garlic butter base keeps the flavor deep without being heavy. At Top Recipes Day, this recipe has become a reader favorite thanks to its simplicity, indulgent taste, and reliable results—even for beginner cooks.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Cuisine: American
- Category: Dinner Recipes
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
- Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the same pan.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and scrape up browned bits from the pan.
- Stir in heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
- Simmer sauce for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add spinach and cook until wilted.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth.
- Return chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over the top.
- Simmer for 3–5 minutes, then remove from heat and serve.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-pan dinner with minimal cleanup
- Rich, creamy sauce packed with garlic flavor
- Ready in just 35 minutes
- Family-friendly and meal-prep approved
- Perfect with pasta, rice, or low-carb sides
Pro Cooking Tips
- Pound chicken breasts slightly for even cooking.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother sauce.
- Do not boil the cream; gentle simmering prevents separation.
- Let the chicken rest in the sauce for extra tenderness.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for extra juiciness.
- Swap spinach for kale or sun-dried tomatoes.
- Replace heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
- Add mushrooms for extra texture and depth.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For freezing, allow the dish to cool completely and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.
Nutrition Information (Approximate)
- Calories: 520 per serving
- Protein: 38g
- Carbs: 6g
- Fat: 38g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats well and tastes even better the next day.
What can I serve with creamy garlic chicken?
Rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables work perfectly.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
Milk works, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
How do I thicken the sauce more?
Simmer a few extra minutes or add a small amount of grated Parmesan.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Spinach is the kind of dinner that feels indulgent without being complicated. It’s reliable, flavorful, and perfect for both weeknights and special occasions. If you enjoyed this recipe, save it, leave a comment, and explore more easy dinner ideas on Top Recipes Day. Your next favorite meal is waiting.
