Chicken with Spinach and Mushrooms in Creamy Parmesan Sauce: A Cozy Comfort Dish
Here’s something so comforting about creamy, cheesy dishes, especially when packed with hearty ingredients like chicken, spinach, and mushrooms. This recipe is one of my absolute favorites because it’s the perfect combination of indulgence and healthy goodness. It’s a dish I can whip up on a weeknight when I want something quick yet feels like a special treat. Plus, the creamy Parmesan sauce makes it feel restaurant-worthy without the fuss.
This recipe has easily become a staple in my kitchen, especially when I want something warm and comforting but don’t have hours to cook. It’s rich, flavorful, and full of nutrients thanks to the spinach and mushrooms—so it’s a win-win! Let’s dive in.
Tips for Substitutions & Flavor Variations:
Lighter Version: Swap out the heavy cream for half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter yet still creamy version.
Dairy-Free: You can substitute the Parmesan with a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for a similar cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Add More Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the sauce for an extra dose of nutrients.
Protein Boost: Want more protein? You can add cooked bacon or shrimp to the dish for a hearty variation.
Serving Suggestions:
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:
- Over Pasta or Rice: Serve the chicken and creamy sauce over a bed of pasta or rice for a filling meal.
- Mashed Potatoes: The rich, savory sauce is perfect for spooning over mashed potatoes.
- Side Salad: Lighten up the meal with a simple side salad of mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes dressed in a lemon vinaigrette.
Chicken with Spinach and Mushrooms in Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms button or cremini
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: Fresh parsley or extra Parmesan
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken:Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and sauté the chopped onion and garlic until soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’ve softened and released their moisture.
- Add the Spinach:Add the fresh spinach leaves to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Season with a pinch of salt and dried oregano for extra flavor.
- Make the Creamy Sauce:Lower the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently and bring it to a simmer. Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Combine and Serve:Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy Parmesan sauce. Let them simmer for 2-3 more minutes to soak up the flavors. Once everything is heated through, garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan, if desired. Serve immediately.
