Are you tired of the same old boring chicken recipes? Look no further! Chicken and spinach is a match made in heaven, and when done right, it can be a game-changer. But what if I told you that you don’t need to rely on heavy creams or rich sauces to make these dishes pop? In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering chicken and spinach recipes that are not only delicious but also healthy and cream-free.
From classic skillet dinners to slow cooker recipes and international-inspired dishes, there’s something for everyone in this collection. And the best part? Each recipe is packed with nutrients and flavor, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. So go ahead, get creative, and let your taste buds do the happy dance!
Garlic Butter Chicken with Sautéed Spinach
Garlic Butter Chicken with Sautéed Spinach Recipe
This recipe combines the richness of garlic butter sauce with the simplicity of sautéed spinach, all wrapped up in a juicy chicken dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 bunch fresh spinach leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes or until browned on both sides.
5. Transfer chicken to a baking dish and top with garlic butter sauce (combine heavy cream, melted butter, and minced garlic).
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in the same skillet used earlier. Add fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
8. Serve chicken with sautéed spinach on the side.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Herb Chicken and Spinach Skillet
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this bright and flavorful skillet dish, packed with tender chicken, wilted spinach, and a burst of citrusy goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in lemon juice and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add spinach leaves and stir until wilted.
6. Return chicken to the skillet and cook until coated with the sauce and cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Chicken with Spinach and Tomatoes
A flavorful and healthy twist on classic baked chicken, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of tomatoes with the earthy taste of spinach. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer.
5. Top each chicken breast with diced tomatoes and fresh spinach leaves.
6. Sprinkle dried oregano over the top of each breast.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pan Chicken Spinach and Mushrooms
A flavorful and nutritious dinner option that’s ready in under 30 minutes! This recipe combines the richness of chicken, spinach, and mushrooms in a single pan.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms (button or cremini)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken, cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
4. Add mushrooms and garlic to the pan; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start browning, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in spinach leaves; cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
6. Return chicken to the pan and stir to combine with mushroom-spinach mixture.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. If using cheese, sprinkle on top and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until melted.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Chicken and Spinach Stir-Fry
This quick and flavorful stir-fry recipe combines the spicy kick of red pepper flakes with the freshness of spinach, all wrapped up in a savory chicken dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add garlic and red pepper flakes to the pan; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add spinach leaves to the pan; stir-fry until wilted, about 2 minutes.
5. Return chicken to the pan; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional spinach if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chicken Spinach and Feta Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the savory flavors of chicken, spinach, and feta cheese with the natural sweetness of bell peppers. The result is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine chicken, spinach, feta cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the chicken mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken with Spinach and Garlic
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s perfect for a busy day. With minimal effort, you’ll have tender chicken, fresh spinach, and aromatic garlic ready to be served.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and oregano.
2. Place the chicken in a slow cooker.
3. Add the minced garlic, diced tomatoes, and fresh spinach leaves on top of the chicken.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Chicken Spinach and Quinoa Bowl
A nutritious and flavorful bowl that combines the creaminess of spinach with the nuttiness of quinoa, all wrapped up with juicy chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked quinoa
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Stir in fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
7. Serve cooked quinoa in a bowl, topped with cooked chicken, spinach mixture, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Grilled Chicken with Wilted Spinach and Lemon
A flavorful and healthy dish that combines the juiciness of grilled chicken with the tanginess of wilted spinach and a squeeze of lemon. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 bunch fresh spinach leaves
– 2 lemons, cut into wedges
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture on both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve grilled chicken with wilted spinach and a squeeze of lemon.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Spinach and Artichoke Bake
This comforting casserole combines juicy chicken, tender spinach, and artichoke hearts in a rich and creamy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in artichoke hearts, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. In a separate bowl, combine heavy cream and shredded cheese.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange the cooked chicken mixture. Top with spinach leaves and pour the cream-cheese mixture over the top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Spinach and Avocado Salad
Chicken Spinach and Avocado Salad Recipe
This refreshing salad is perfect for a light lunch or dinner, packed with protein-rich chicken, nutritious spinach, and creamy avocado. A great combination of flavors and textures that’s sure to please!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken, spinach, avocado, and cherry tomatoes.
- If using feta cheese, crumble it over the top of the salad.
- Dress with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
This salad is ready in under 10 minutes! Simply assemble all the ingredients and serve immediately.
Pan-Seared Chicken with Spinach and White Wine Sauce
Elevate your dinner game with this rich and flavorful pan-seared chicken dish, featuring a creamy spinach and white wine sauce. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup white wine (dry)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Add to skillet; cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Remove chicken from skillet. Reduce heat to medium.
4. Add butter, garlic, and spinach to skillet. Cook until spinach wilts (about 2 minutes).
5. Pour in white wine; simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
6. Serve sauce over chicken breasts.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Spinach and Sweet Potato Hash
This hearty hash combines juicy chicken, nutrient-rich spinach, and sweet potatoes in a deliciously balanced dish that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss chicken with salt, pepper, and any desired seasonings.
3. Spread sweet potatoes on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. Add spinach leaves to the baking sheet with sweet potatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until wilted.
5. In a large skillet, cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side.
6. Combine roasted sweet potato and spinach mixture with cooked chicken.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes.
Chicken Spinach and Chickpea Curry
This comforting curry recipe combines the flavors of chicken, spinach, and chickpeas with a creamy coconut milk base. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken, onions, and garlic; cook until the chicken is browned.
3. Stir in curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chickpeas, spinach, and coconut milk; stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low; simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Chicken Spinach and Tomato Pasta
This recipe combines the flavors of chicken, spinach, tomato, and pasta to create a rich and satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 cup cooked pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add diced tomatoes and cooked spinach to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in heavy cream and cooked chicken. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 1-2 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Combine cooked pasta, tomato-chicken mixture, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Spinach and Black Bean Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the best of chicken, spinach, and black beans. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, salsa, shredded cheese
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add black beans and spinach; stir to combine. Cook until spinach is wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with chicken-spinach mixture and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Chicken Spinach and Zucchini Noodles
Looking for a healthy and flavorful dish that’s ready in no time? Look no further! This chicken, spinach, and zucchini noodle recipe is a perfect combination of protein, veggies, and whole grain goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes for some heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook zucchinis according to package instructions or using a spiralizer.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes per side.
4. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add cooked zucchinis, spinach leaves, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until spinach is wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Slice cooked chicken into strips and add it back to the skillet with the veggies. Stir well to combine.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Chicken Spinach and Brown Rice Casserole
A flavorful and nutritious casserole that combines the richness of chicken, spinach, and brown rice with a hint of creaminess. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked brown rice
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken, onion, and garlic until the chicken is cooked through.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cooked brown rice, spinach, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and thyme.
4. Add the cooked chicken mixture to the rice mixture and stir until combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Spinach and Red Pepper Stir-Fry
This flavorful stir-fry is a great way to get your daily dose of greens and protein in just 15 minutes! Sizzling chicken, tender spinach, and sweet red peppers come together for a delicious and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce or stir-fry sauce for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pan.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the red peppers and cook until tender, about 3 minutes.
5. Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
6. Return the chicken to the pan and stir to combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Chicken Spinach and Lentil Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, with tender chicken, nutritious lentils, and fresh spinach. A comforting and nourishing meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned.
3. Add the lentils, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Stir in the spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meal game with these 20 delicious chicken and spinach recipes that are not only healthy but also creamy-free! From classic comfort food dishes like baked chicken and stuffed peppers, to quick and easy stir-fries and skillet meals, this list has something for everyone. With flavors ranging from garlic butter to lemon herb, spicy to savory, you’ll never get bored with these mouth-watering recipes that combine the perfect pairing of chicken and spinach. Whether you’re cooking for one or a crowd, there’s a recipe here to suit your taste buds and dietary needs.
