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Creamy Parmesan Spinach Dish

Section: Satisfying Main Dishes for Every Occasion

This creamy Parmesan spinach dish is a one-pan wonder packed with flavor. Tender chicken strips are sautéed with garlic, paprika, and red pepper flakes, then paired with fluffy rice simmered in chicken broth. Heavy cream and Parmesan cheese bring luxurious texture, while fresh spinach adds color and nutrition. Everything comes together in one skillet, making this hearty, balanced dish perfect for weeknight meals or easy entertaining. It's satisfying, adaptable, and reheats like a dream—ideal for meal prep or feeding a hungry family.

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Published By Ioana
Updated on Sun, 13 Jul 2025 16:00:49 GMT
A plate of food with chicken and spinach. Bookmark
A plate of food with chicken and spinach. | ioanacooks.com

This one-pan creamy parmesan spinach dish brings together tender chicken strips, rich cheesy rice, and fresh spinach for a comforting and flavorful meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something satisfying without a mountain of cleanup. The chicken gets golden and flavorful while the creamy rice absorbs savory broth and Parmesan. Fold in the spinach at the end for color and freshness and you’ve got a dish that everyone asks for again and again.

I first created this when my sister dropped by unexpectedly and I needed a fast dinner. Now it’s one of our most requested meals at family gatherings.

Ingredients

  • Boneless skinless chicken breasts: adds lean protein and absorbs the seasoning well
  • Long grain white rice: delivers a fluffy tender base to soak up all the flavor
  • Chicken broth: infuses the rice with savory depth as it cooks
  • Heavy cream: brings creamy richness and balances the spice
  • Parmesan cheese: adds nutty depth and thickens the sauce naturally
  • Butter and olive oil: provide a flavorful base for sautéing
  • Fresh garlic: gives aromatic punch to every bite
  • Red pepper flakes: add adjustable heat for balance
  • Smoked paprika: deepens flavor with subtle smokiness
  • Fresh spinach: finishes the dish with color and light freshness
A plate of food with chicken and spinach. Bookmark
A plate of food with chicken and spinach. | ioanacooks.com

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season and Sear Chicken
Rub chicken strips with garlic powder smoked paprika red pepper flakes salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet until hot. Cook chicken on both sides until golden and fully cooked about 5 to 7 minutes. Set aside
Create the Aromatic Base
Add butter and minced garlic to the same skillet. Cook over medium heat for about 30 seconds just until fragrant being careful not to let the garlic burn
Simmer the Rice
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a steady simmer. Stir in rice cover with a lid and lower heat. Let cook for about 15 minutes until the rice is fully tender
Make the Creamy Sauce
Stir in heavy cream and parmesan cheese into the hot rice. Stir constantly until cheese melts and mixture becomes silky smooth and creamy
Add Spinach and Reunite with Chicken
Add spinach gradually letting it wilt between additions. Return cooked chicken to the skillet and fold gently to combine all ingredients. Let rest uncovered for 5 minutes before serving

Making Ahead and Storage

This dish keeps its creamy texture well if stored properly. Cool leftovers fully before placing them in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to four days. When reheating add a splash of broth or cream and warm gently on the stovetop to avoid drying it out.

A bowl of creamy Parmesan spinach. Bookmark
A bowl of creamy Parmesan spinach. | ioanacooks.com

Perfect Substitutions

If heavy cream feels too rich try using half and half instead. Brown rice can be used in place of white but will need a longer cooking time. Kale or Swiss chard work instead of spinach though they need slightly more cooking. You can use chicken thighs for extra flavor or switch to mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian version.

Serving Suggestions

This meal is complete on its own but can be elevated further with a lemony side salad or crusty garlic bread. For a beautiful presentation serve in shallow bowls and top with extra parmesan and red pepper flakes. A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the richness.

Smoked paprika has become a staple in my kitchen. I started using it during culinary school and now always keep several jars on hand. It adds just the right depth and warmth to dishes like this and never fails to impress guests.

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of rice?

Yes, you can substitute with jasmine or basmati rice for a fragrant twist. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Cook garlic over medium heat and keep it moving in the butter and oil. Remove from heat if it starts to brown too quickly.

→ Can this be made ahead?

Absolutely. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream.

→ Is there a vegetarian version?

Yes, you can replace the chicken with roasted mushrooms or tofu. Keep the same sauce and spinach for full flavor.

→ What wine pairs well with this?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the creamy and slightly spicy flavors.

Creamy Parmesan Spinach Dish

Creamy spinach and spicy chicken come together in this comforting one-pan dinner loaded with bold, satisfying flavor.

Time Needed to Prep
10 minutes
Cooking Duration
25 minutes
Overall Time
35 minutes
Published By: Ioana

Category of Recipe: Main Dishes

Preparation Difficulty: Medium Difficulty

Type of Cuisine: American

Number of Portions: 4 How Many It Serves (1 large skillet meal)

Dietary Preferences: No Gluten

Ingredients You'll Need

→ Main Ingredients

Ingredient 01 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
Ingredient 02 1 cup long grain white rice
Ingredient 03 2 cups chicken broth
Ingredient 04 1 cup heavy cream
Ingredient 05 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Ingredient 06 2 tablespoons butter
Ingredient 07 1 tablespoon olive oil
Ingredient 08 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
Ingredient 09 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Ingredient 10 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Ingredient 11 3 cups fresh spinach, loosely packed
Ingredient 12 Salt and black pepper, to taste

Steps to Follow

Step 01

Coat chicken strips with garlic powder, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Step 02

In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Cook over medium heat until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Avoid browning the garlic.

Step 03

Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in rice, cover, and reduce heat. Cook for 15 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

Step 04

Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Mix until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 05

Add fresh spinach in batches, stirring gently until wilted. Return cooked chicken to the pan and fold to combine. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Extra Tips

  1. Let dish rest uncovered for 5 minutes before serving to allow sauce to set and flavors to meld.
  2. For a spicier version, increase red pepper flakes to 1 teaspoon.
  3. To reheat, add a splash of broth or cream and warm gently over low heat.
  4. Can be doubled for larger gatherings without changing cooking technique.
  5. For a lighter option, substitute half and half for heavy cream.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large deep skillet with lid
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cutting board and sharp knife

Allergen Information

Carefully check food labels for allergens and consult an expert if you're uncertain.
  • Contains dairy (Parmesan, cream, butter)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Remember, these values are for guidance only and shouldn't replace advice from a professional.
  • Calories Per Serving: 520
  • Total Fat: 29 grams
  • Carbohydrate Amount: 32 grams
  • Protein Amount: 34 grams