Garlic Cream Chicken With Spinach

Name: Garlic Cream Chicken With Spinach
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 head of garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Simple Homestyle Cooking

I absolutely adore this Garlic Cream Chicken With Spinach recipe! The combination of tender chicken, creamy garlic sauce, and vibrant spinach creates a dish that is both comforting and indulgent. I love how the rich flavors blend together, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The best part? It all comes together in just 30 minutes, ensuring that even on the busiest nights, I can serve up something delightful without sacrificing taste.

Created by

Nora Ellis

Last updated on 2026-02-16T02:35:35.932Z

When I first experimented with this dish, I had some chicken breasts I needed to use and a head of garlic that was practically begging to be turned into something delicious. The garlic cream sauce really enhances the chicken, creating a rich and comforting flavor profile. I found that adding spinach not only gives a pop of color but adds nutrition as well, making this dish wholesome and satisfying.

One of the key tips I discovered while perfecting this recipe is to let the garlic cook slowly. If you add it too quickly, it can burn and turn bitter, ruining the creamy sauce. I recommend cooking it just until fragrant before adding the cream, which results in a beautifully balanced sauce that coats the chicken perfectly!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Decadent creaminess that elevates every bite
Quick preparation makes it ideal for busy weeknights
Nutritious spinach adds color and health benefits

The Art of Cooking Chicken

When cooking chicken breasts for this recipe, it's crucial to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F to guarantee they are fully cooked. Using a meat thermometer can help prevent undercooking or overcooking. To achieve a golden crust, be sure to sear the chicken without overcrowding the skillet, which allows for even heat distribution and a beautiful golden color.

Resting the chicken for about five minutes after cooking is essential. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite remains juicy and tender. Cutting too soon results in dry chicken, so patience pays off. I like to cover it lightly with foil while I make the sauce, keeping it warm.

Creating the Perfect Cream Sauce

As you prepare the garlic cream sauce, watching the cream closely is key to avoiding curdling. Start by bringing the cream to a gentle simmer rather than a boil. Stir continuously to maintain a smooth texture, and look for a glossy appearance as it thickens. If it thickens too much, you can easily loosen it with a splash of chicken broth or water.

The garlic plays a vital role in this dish, offering aromatic depth. To prevent bitterness, sauté the minced garlic just until it's fragrant, usually at about 1-2 minutes. If you prefer a mellower flavor, you might consider roasting the garlic beforehand, which adds sweetness and a different dimension to the sauce.

Customization and Serving Suggestions

Feel free to customize the greens in this dish. While spinach provides a nutritious boost, you can also use kale or Swiss chard. If opting for kale, be sure to chop it finely and cook it a bit longer, around 4-5 minutes, until it's tender. This flexibility allows for seasonal variations and personal preferences.

For a complete meal, serve the Garlic Cream Chicken over a bed of cooked pasta or rice, allowing the sauce to soak into the grains. This not only enhances the flavor but also makes a more hearty dish. If you prefer a lighter option, pairing it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables works beautifully to balance the richness of the sauce.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
1 head of garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions

Cook the chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for 7-8 minutes on each side until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Make the garlic cream sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer, stirring continuously until it thickens slightly.

Add the spinach

Stir in the fresh spinach and cook for about 2 minutes until it wilts down. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Serve

Plate the chicken topped with the creamy garlic spinach sauce and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding some fresh herbs like thyme or basil to the sauce. You can also serve this dish over pasta or rice for a heartier meal.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the chicken and garlic cream sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating should be done gently on the stove over low heat to prevent the cream from separating. Stir occasionally and add a splash of broth if needed to revive the sauce’s creamy texture.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce for up to three months. Just be aware that freezing can alter the texture slightly. When you're ready to enjoy your meal again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat as previously mentioned for the best results.

Variations and Ingredient Swaps

For those looking to lighten the dish, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream. This change will reduce the richness while still providing a creamy texture. Alternatively, for a dairy-free version, coconut cream works remarkably well, adding a unique flavor that pairs nicely with garlic and chicken.

Consider experimenting with herbs for added flavor; fresh basil or thyme can be stirred into the cream sauce just before serving. These herbs add freshness and complexity, elevating the dish further. You could also try cheese variations; a sprinkle of feta or goat cheese on top could provide a delightful tang.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can, but ensure that the chicken is fully thawed before cooking for even results.

→ How can I make this recipe lighter?

You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a low-fat alternative, but be aware that it may alter the creaminess.

→ What can I serve with Garlic Cream Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or even a light salad for balance.

→ Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or mushrooms, and keep the garlic cream sauce recipe the same.