Are you looking for a delicious and healthy meal that’s quick to prepare? Look no further! Chicken and spinach is a match made in heaven, and with these 20 mouth-watering recipes, you’ll never get bored. From classic comfort food to international twists, we’ve got everything covered.
In this article, we’ll be sharing our favorite chicken and spinach recipes that are not only creamy-free but also packed with nutrients. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a family-friendly meal or a health-conscious individual seeking a nutritious meal option, these recipes are sure to please. So without further ado, let’s dive into the world of chicken and spinach!
Garlic Butter Chicken with Sautéed Spinach
A flavorful and easy-to-make dish that combines the richness of garlic butter with the tenderness of chicken, served alongside a burst of nutrients from sautéed spinach.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter.
3. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the chicken.
5. If using white wine, pour it into the pan to create a sauce (optional).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Meanwhile, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted (about 2-3 minutes). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve chicken with sautéed spinach on the side.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Herb Chicken and Spinach Skillet
This vibrant skillet dish combines the brightness of lemon zest with the earthiness of spinach, all wrapped up in a flavorful chicken package. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 bunch fresh spinach leaves (about 4 cups)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Reduce heat to medium, add garlic, lemon juice, rosemary, and thyme. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add spinach leaves and stir until wilted.
5. Return chicken to skillet and simmer until cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with feta cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes.
Baked Chicken with Spinach and Tomatoes
A flavorful and nutritious dish that combines juicy chicken, wilted spinach, and sweet tomatoes, all baked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place chicken breasts on the baking sheet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken, then sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Top each chicken breast with a spoonful of spinach, diced tomatoes, and grated cheese.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
One-Pan Chicken Spinach and Mushrooms
A flavorful and nutritious one-pan meal that combines the richness of chicken with the earthiness of mushrooms and spinach. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the mushrooms and garlic to the pan; cook until the mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 4 minutes.
4. Add the spinach leaves to the pan; cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
5. If using wine, add it to the pan and stir to combine.
6. Return the chicken to the pan; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Spicy Chicken and Spinach Stir-Fry
This recipe is a flavorful and healthy twist on traditional stir-fries, combining the spicy kick of red pepper flakes with the nutrients of spinach. Quick to make and packed with protein, this dish makes for an excellent weeknight meal.
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
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: serve with rice or noodles
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.
3. Add garlic, red pepper flakes, and spinach. Cook until spinach is wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chicken Spinach and Feta Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the flavors of chicken, spinach, feta cheese, and sweet bell peppers for a deliciously savory and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the chicken-spinach mixture and top with feta cheese.
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken and Spinach Soup
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious slow cooker soup, packed with juicy chicken, creamy spinach, and aromatic vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed veggies (carrots, celery, potatoes)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken, veggies, garlic, and thyme in a slow cooker.
2. Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the fresh spinach leaves.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional spinach if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Grilled Chicken with Wilted Spinach and Garlic
A flavorful and healthy twist on classic grilled chicken, this recipe combines juicy poultry with the rich flavors of wilted spinach and garlic. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 bunch of fresh spinach, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and chopped spinach.
3. Brush chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, place the garlic-spinach mixture on a piece of aluminum foil and fold to create a packet. Grill for 2-3 minutes, or until spinach is wilted.
6. Serve grilled chicken with wilted spinach and garlic sauce spooned over the top. Add lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chicken Spinach and Quinoa Bowl
This flavorful bowl combines the protein-packed punch of chicken with the nutty goodness of quinoa, the creaminess of spinach, and a hint of Mediterranean flair. Perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or lunch on-the-go!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook chicken breast according to package instructions or grill until cooked through.
3. In a medium pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add cooked quinoa and stir-fry for about 2 minutes.
4. Add fresh spinach leaves to the pan and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
5. Slice chicken breast into strips and add to the pan with quinoa and spinach.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
7. Garnish with crumbled feta cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Skillet Chicken with Spinach and Artichokes
Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this flavorful skillet dish featuring tender chicken, wilted spinach, and the perfect balance of artichoke hearts.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium; add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in the spinach and artichoke hearts; cook until the spinach is wilted.
5. Add the chicken back into the skillet and stir in thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chicken Spinach and Avocado Salad
This refreshing salad combines the tender flavor of chicken with the creaminess of avocado, the nutty taste of spinach, and a hint of tanginess from feta cheese. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, spinach, and avocado.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and squeeze lemon juice over the top.
3. Sprinkle feta cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional spinach leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (preparation time), ready in 15 minutes total.
Mediterranean Chicken and Spinach Bake
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional chicken dishes, this Mediterranean-inspired bake combines juicy chicken with wilted spinach, tangy feta cheese, and a hint of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and toss to coat.
3. Spread chicken mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Top with spinach leaves, feta cheese, and lemon juice.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and spinach is wilted.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken Spinach and Sweet Potato Hash
This hearty dish combines juicy chicken, sweet potatoes, and fresh spinach for a satisfying breakfast or brunch option. With its rich flavors and textures, this hash is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 bunch fresh spinach, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil 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 remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add sweet potatoes and cook for 10-12 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally.
4. Add chopped spinach to the skillet and stir until wilted.
5. Return chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with sweet potato mixture.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pan-Seared Chicken with Lemon Spinach Sauce
This recipe combines the simplicity of pan-searing chicken breasts with the brightness of a lemon spinach sauce, creating a flavorful and visually appealing dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Add olive oil to skillet and sear chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
6. Stir in lemon juice and spinach; cook until spinach is wilted, about 2 minutes.
7. Serve sauce over pan-seared chicken breasts.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Spinach and Chickpea Curry
This flavorful curry combines the richness of chicken and chickpeas with the creaminess of spinach, all wrapped up in a warm and aromatic spice blend. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal on a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz)
– 1 bunch fresh spinach, chopped
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– 2 tbsp curry powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or butter for frying
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken, onions, and garlic; cook until browned (5-7 minutes).
2. Add chickpeas, spinach, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well.
3. Pour in coconut milk and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and let curry cook for 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and sauce has thickened.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Stuffed Chicken Breast with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe! Tender chicken breasts are stuffed with a savory blend of spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese, then baked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, and garlic.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the spinach mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed breasts and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Spinach and Brown Rice Casserole
This casserole is a perfect combination of flavors, textures, and nutrients, all in one satisfying dish. With chicken, spinach, brown rice, and cheese, it’s a meal that’s sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups cooked brown rice
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken and onion over medium-high heat until browned.
3. Add garlic, spinach, and cooked rice; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until spinach is wilted.
4. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with cheese and milk.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Chicken and Spinach Pasta (No Cream)
A flavorful and healthy pasta dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil if needed, then sauté onion and garlic until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add fresh spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and spinach mixture in a large serving bowl. Season with salt, pepper, and basil.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Spinach and Black Bean Tacos
This flavorful recipe combines the richness of chicken, spinach, and black beans with the crunch of crispy taco shells. A perfect blend of Mexican-inspired flavors and nutrients for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 taco shells
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, avocado, salsa
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in the spinach and black beans. Cook until the spinach is wilted.
5. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
6. Assemble tacos by filling each shell with the chicken-spinach mixture and top with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Herbed Chicken with Spinach and White Beans
A flavorful and nutritious one-pot dish that combines tender chicken, wilted spinach, and creamy white beans, all infused with the aroma of fresh herbs. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (15 ounces) white beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic, rosemary, and thyme; cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the chicken; cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add the white beans, spinach, and chicken broth; stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low; simmer, covered, for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the spinach has wilted.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in delicious and healthy chicken and spinach recipes without cream! This collection of 20 mouthwatering dishes offers something for everyone. From skillet dinners to baked goods, salads, and more, you’ll find a variety of flavors and textures to satisfy your cravings. Discover how to combine the nutritional benefits of spinach with the versatility of chicken in easy-to-make meals that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special treat, this article has got you covered!
