Name: Sautéed Chicken Spinach Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1/2 cup chicken broth (or water); 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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This Sautéed Chicken Spinach Skillet is a simple yet delicious dish that combines the savory flavors of tender chicken breast, fresh spinach, and a hint of lemon. The addition of garlic and a touch of red pepper flakes makes it even more enticing. It's the perfect healthy meal that’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or meal prepping.

Sautéed Chicken Spinach Skillet

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

4 cups fresh spinach, chopped

½ teaspoon lemon zest

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Salt and pepper to taste

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

½ cup chicken broth (or water)

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

I start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).

Then, I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, I add the chicken breasts and cook them for 6-7 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and fully cooked through (with an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C). Once cooked, I remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

In the same skillet, I add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until it becomes fragrant.

I toss in the chopped spinach and cook it for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it wilts down.

Next, I pour in the chicken broth (or water) and stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice. I let it simmer for about 1-2 minutes so the flavors can come together.

Finally, I return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon some of the spinach mixture over the top. I let everything cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat the chicken through.

I garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 2 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Add some cheese: For a creamy twist, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the spinach and chicken as it simmers.

Substitute chicken for turkey: If I want a leaner alternative, turkey breasts can be used in place of the chicken.

Use frozen spinach: If fresh spinach is not available, I can substitute with frozen spinach, just make sure to thaw and drain it first.

Storage/Reheating

I can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I simply place the skillet over low heat until warmed through or use the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. For best results, I prefer reheating on the stovetop to maintain the texture of the chicken and spinach.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, I can use frozen chicken breasts, but it will take a little longer to cook. Be sure to fully thaw them before cooking to ensure they cook evenly.

Can I use other leafy greens instead of spinach?

Definitely! I can substitute spinach with kale, Swiss chard, or even arugula if I prefer a different flavor profile.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To kick up the heat, I can add more red pepper flakes or even a dash of cayenne pepper.

Can I make this dish ahead of time for meal prep?

Yes! This dish is great for meal prepping. I can cook it, let it cool, and store it in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?

Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs due to the focus on protein and spinach, making it a perfect fit for a low-carb or keto diet.

Conclusion

This Sautéed Chicken Spinach Skillet is an easy, healthy, and satisfying meal that comes together in no time. With the perfect balance of flavors, it’s sure to become one of my go-to recipes for busy weeknights or meal prep. The combination of juicy chicken, vibrant spinach, and lemony garlic goodness is something I’m sure I’ll want to make again and again!

Recipe:

Sautéed Chicken Spinach Skillet

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 2 servings

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Description

A simple yet delicious dish combining tender chicken breasts, fresh spinach, and a hint of lemon, all cooked in one skillet for easy cleanup and maximum flavor.

Instructions

Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C). Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Add the minced garlic to the same skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it wilts down.
Pour in the chicken broth (or water) and stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to combine the flavors.
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon some of the spinach mixture over the top. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat the chicken through.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.