Chicken thighs with creamy spinach sauce is a comforting, flavorful dish where juicy seared chicken is coated in a rich garlic-spinach cream sauce. I love how it comes together in one pan and feels like a restaurant-style dinner at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how tender the chicken stays, and the creamy spinach sauce is pure comfort food. It’s a great way to sneak in greens and still have something rich and satisfying. Perfect for weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Boneless, skinless chicken thighs
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Olive oil
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Garlic, minced
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Baby spinach
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Heavy cream
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Chicken broth
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Parmesan cheese
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Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning
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Optional: red pepper flakes
Directions
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I season the chicken thighs and sear them in a skillet until golden and cooked through, then remove and set aside.
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In the same skillet, I sauté garlic until fragrant.
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I add the spinach and cook until wilted.
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I pour in the cream and chicken broth, simmering to thicken.
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I stir in the parmesan and return the chicken to the pan to coat with the sauce.
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I serve warm with pasta, rice, or bread.
Servings and timing
Serves 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
Sometimes I add mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or swap the spinach for kale. I’ve also used chicken breasts sliced thin.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. I reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.
FAQs
Can I make this dairy-free?
I’ve used coconut cream or a dairy-free substitute, but it does change the flavor.
Can I add pasta directly to the pan?
Yes, cooked pasta tossed in the sauce is delicious and easy.
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, I thaw and drain it well before adding.
What kind of pan should I use?
I use a large nonstick or cast iron skillet to get a good sear on the chicken.
How do I make it spicier?
I add red pepper flakes or a touch of Cajun seasoning.
Conclusion
Chicken thighs with creamy spinach sauce is rich, savory, and easy to love. I enjoy making this dish when I want something filling, flavorful, and simple to pull off in one pan.
Print
Chicken Thighs with Creamy Spinach Sauce
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Chicken thighs with creamy spinach sauce is a comforting one-pan meal featuring juicy seared chicken in a rich, garlicky spinach cream sauce. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups baby spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
- Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add baby spinach and cook until wilted, about 2–3 minutes.
- Pour in cream and chicken broth, stir, and simmer for 3–4 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Return chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over the top. Simmer 2–3 minutes more.
- Serve warm with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
Notes
- Add-ins: Mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or kale work well.
- Dairy-free version: Use coconut cream or dairy-free alternatives (flavor will vary).
- Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or Cajun seasoning.
- Protein swap: Thinly sliced chicken breasts can be used.
- Pasta tip: Toss cooked pasta directly into the sauce before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with sauce
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
