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Chicken with Spinach and Mushrooms in Creamy Parmesan Sauce

This Chicken with Spinach and Mushrooms in Creamy Parmesan Sauce is a rich, comforting, restaurant-style dinner made in one skillet. Tender, juicy chicken is paired with savory mushrooms, fresh spinach, garlic, and a silky Parmesan cream sauce.

Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, yet delicious enough for guests!

 Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Mushroom Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 8 oz (225 g) mushrooms, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1½ cups heavy cream
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

To Finish

  • 3 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • Extra Parmesan, for serving

 Instructions

1. Season the chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.

Season both sides with Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

2. Cook the chicken

Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the chicken and cook for approximately 5–7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until golden brown and cooked through.

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Cook the mushrooms

Reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons butter to the same skillet.

Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and golden brown.

4. Add the garlic

Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

5. Make the creamy Parmesan sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.

Add the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using.

Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth.

6. Add the spinach

Add the fresh spinach in batches, stirring until wilted into the sauce.

This should take about 1–2 minutes.

7. Return the chicken

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with any juices.

Spoon the creamy mushroom and Parmesan sauce over the chicken.

Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until everything is hot and well combined.

8. Garnish and serve

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.

Serve immediately while warm and creamy.


 Recipe Details

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Course: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop / One Skillet
  • Cuisine: American-Italian inspired

 Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken

  • Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan: It melts more smoothly than pre-shredded Parmesan.
  • Avoid boiling the sauce: Keep it at a gentle simmer to prevent the cream from separating.
  • Adjust the sauce thickness: If it becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth. If it’s too thin, simmer for a few extra minutes.
  • Pound thick chicken breasts slightly: This helps them cook more evenly.

 Q&A

Can I use chicken thighs instead?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully and are naturally juicy. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes. Thaw it completely and squeeze out as much excess water as possible before adding it to the sauce.

What mushrooms work best?

Cremini, baby bella, white button mushrooms, or a mixture of mushrooms all work well.

Can I make this without heavy cream?

For a lighter version, use half-and-half, although the sauce will be less rich. You may need to simmer it a little longer to thicken.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer the sauce gently for a few extra minutes, or add a small slurry made with 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. Store the cooked chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat.

Can I freeze it?

Cream-based sauces can sometimes separate after freezing, so this dish is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

What should I serve with it?

This creamy chicken is delicious with:

  • Pasta
  • Mashed potatoes
  • Rice
  • Cauliflower rice
  • Roasted vegetables
  • Zucchini noodles
  • Crusty bread

 Serving Suggestion

Serve the chicken over buttered pasta, creamy mashed potatoes, or cauliflower rice, then spoon plenty of the creamy mushroom, spinach, and Parmesan sauce over the top.

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