Mediterranean Creamy Spinach Chicken Skillet
Mediterranean Creamy Spinach Chicken Skillet is a rich, comforting one-pan meal that brings together tender chicken, buttery garlic, and silky cream sauce with a bright Mediterranean twist. Instead of feeling heavy, this version uses olive oil, lemon, and herbs to keep the flavors fresh and balanced. Juicy pan-seared chicken breasts are simmered in a velvety sauce with wilted spinach and a hint of parmesan, creating a dish that feels elegant but is simple enough for a weeknight dinner. It’s perfect served over rice, pasta, or with warm crusty bread to soak up every bit of the sauce.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
4 cups fresh spinach
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, and thyme.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear the chicken for 5 to 6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked, then transfer to a plate.
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until soft and lightly golden.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream, letting it gently simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Add the parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Return the chicken to the skillet, add the spinach, and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the chicken is heated through.
Finish with lemon juice and fresh parsley, then serve hot.
Tips
Use chicken breasts of even thickness or pound them slightly for uniform cooking.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after searing to keep it juicy.
Use freshly grated parmesan for the smoothest sauce texture.
Do not let the cream boil rapidly, as this can cause it to separate.
Add spinach in batches if your pan is small to avoid overflow.
Deglazing the pan properly adds deep flavor to the sauce.
Taste the sauce before serving and adjust salt or lemon as needed.
A splash of white wine can replace part of the broth for added complexity.
Serve immediately for the best creamy consistency.
Use a wide, heavy-bottomed skillet to ensure even cooking.
Variations
Replace heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
Add sun-dried tomatoes for sweet, tangy bursts of flavor.
Stir in sautéed mushrooms for an earthy twist.
Use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts for extra juiciness.
Add artichoke hearts for a classic Mediterranean touch.
Sprinkle in red pepper flakes for gentle heat.
Swap parmesan for feta for a saltier, tangier profile.
Add a handful of olives for a briny kick.
Serve over orzo or couscous instead of pasta.
Mix in a spoonful of cream cheese for an even richer sauce.
Q & A
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, reheat gently to maintain the creamy texture.
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, just thaw and squeeze it dry before adding.
How do I know when chicken is cooked?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese.
What sides go best with this?
Rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread all work beautifully.
Can I double the sauce?
Yes, just increase cream and broth proportionally.
Will the sauce thicken as it cools?
Yes, it thickens slightly as it rests.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, but fresh-cooked chicken gives the best flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this dish?
It can be frozen, but cream-based sauces may change texture when thawed.
Nutrition
(Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 520
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fat: 36g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 620mg
Conclusion
Mediterranean Creamy Spinach Chicken Skillet is a simple yet luxurious dish that delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. The combination of tender chicken, silky garlic cream sauce, and fresh spinach creates a perfectly balanced meal that feels both comforting and refined. It is ideal for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or meal prep, and it pairs beautifully with everything from pasta to fresh bread. Once you taste the bright lemon finish and rich, savory sauce, this recipe is sure to become a regular favorite at your table.