Creamy Parmesan Spinach Dish (Printable Recipe)
Creamy spinach and spicy chicken come together in this comforting one-pan dinner loaded with bold, satisfying flavor.
# Ingredients You'll Need:
→ Main Ingredients
01 -
1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
02 -
1 cup long grain white rice
03 -
2 cups chicken broth
04 -
1 cup heavy cream
05 -
3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
06 -
2 tablespoons butter
07 -
1 tablespoon olive oil
08 -
3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
09 -
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
10 -
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
11 -
3 cups fresh spinach, loosely packed
12 -
Salt and black pepper, to taste
# Steps to Follow:
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.
02 -
In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Cook over medium heat until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Avoid browning the garlic.
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.
04 -
Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Mix until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth and creamy.
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:
01 -
Let dish rest uncovered for 5 minutes before serving to allow sauce to set and flavors to meld.
02 -
For a spicier version, increase red pepper flakes to 1 teaspoon.
03 -
To reheat, add a splash of broth or cream and warm gently over low heat.
04 -
Can be doubled for larger gatherings without changing cooking technique.
05 -
For a lighter option, substitute half and half for heavy cream.