Creamy One-Pan Spinach Artichoke Chicken Skillet: Your Ultimate Weeknight Dinner
Imagine your favorite creamy, cheesy Spinach and Artichoke Dip transformed into a satisfying, flavor-packed main course. This Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Skillet recipe brings that delightful indulgence to your dinner table in an incredibly easy, one-pan format. It’s a brilliant way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal with minimal fuss, perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something comforting yet quick to prepare. This dish masterfully blends tender chicken with a rich, velvety sauce infused with the savory notes of garlic, the tang of artichoke hearts, and the freshness of spinach, all brought together with nutty Parmesan cheese.
Forget the stress of elaborate cooking! This skillet dinner is designed for convenience without compromising on taste. It’s a complete meal on its own, packed with lean protein and wholesome vegetables, making it a smart choice for a balanced diet. However, its versatility shines, as it pairs wonderfully with various sides, from simple pasta to crusty bread or fluffy rice. If you love the flavors of spinach and artichoke, you’ll also adore our Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Gnocchi or the delectable Spinach-Artichoke Hand Pies.
Why This One-Pan Chicken Skillet is a Must-Try
This Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Skillet isn’t just another dinner recipe; it’s a testament to how simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. Here’s why it deserves a permanent spot in your rotation:
- Minimal Ingredient List: You’ll appreciate the short and straightforward list of ingredients, many of which you likely already have in your pantry or refrigerator. This makes grocery shopping a breeze and ensures you can whip up this meal even on spontaneous nights.
- Clever Vegetable Sneak-In: It’s a delicious way to enjoy a hearty serving of vegetables, hidden within a rich, decadent, and incredibly flavorful creamy sauce. Even the pickiest eaters will find themselves reaching for more.
- Incredibly Versatile Serving Options: This dish is robust enough to be enjoyed entirely on its own, perhaps for a lower-carb meal. Alternatively, it serves as a fantastic foundation for a more elaborate dinner, pairing perfectly with various carbohydrates like crusty bread, fluffy rice, or your favorite pasta.
- Parmesan Perfection: The addition of Parmesan cheese isn’t just for cheesiness; it imparts a deep, nutty, and slightly salty umami flavor that elevates the entire sauce, adding another dimension of deliciousness to every bite.
- Effortless One-Pan Cooking: The magic of a single skillet means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. Everything cooks in one pan, concentrating flavors and streamlining your cooking process from start to finish.
- Quick Weeknight Solution: From prep to plate, this meal comes together in under 40 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when time is of the essence but you still want a homemade, wholesome dinner.
Essential Ingredients for Your Skillet
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delectable skillet meal. Here’s what you’ll need to make this spinach and artichoke chicken a reality, along with a few tips for each:
- Chopped Frozen Spinach: Using frozen chopped spinach is an incredibly convenient way to add a healthy dose of greens. Remember to thaw it thoroughly and squeeze out all excess water – this is crucial to prevent a watery sauce and ensure concentrated spinach flavor.
- Marinated Artichoke Hearts: These are a game-changer! The marinated artichoke hearts bring a wonderful natural acidity and a bold, briny flavor that is characteristic of classic spinach and artichoke dip. Be sure to drain them well before chopping.
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Lean chicken breasts cook quickly and absorb the flavors of the creamy sauce beautifully. You can also use chicken thighs for a richer flavor, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Opt for freshly grated Parmesan if possible. Its sharp, nutty, and salty notes melt into the sauce, creating a luxurious and incredibly flavorful finish.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is essential for that aromatic foundation. It complements the spinach and artichoke perfectly, building depth in the sauce.
- Heavy Cream: This is what gives the sauce its signature richness and decadent texture. Don’t shy away from it – it creates the ultimate creamy indulgence.
- Milk: Used in conjunction with heavy cream, milk helps to thin out the sauce to a perfect consistency while still maintaining its luscious richness and flavor. Whole milk is recommended for the best results.
- Unsalted Butter: Essential for sautéing the aromatics and creating the roux, butter adds a foundational richness to the sauce.
- All-Purpose Flour: This is key for creating a roux, which thickens the sauce and provides a smooth, velvety texture.
- Vegetable Oil: Used for searing the chicken, vegetable oil has a high smoke point, ensuring your chicken gets a beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Salt and Black Pepper: These pantry staples are crucial for seasoning both the chicken and the sauce, bringing all the flavors into harmony. Always taste and adjust seasonings to your preference.
Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Spinach & Artichoke Chicken Skillet
For the exact measurements and a convenient printable version, please refer to the FULL PRINTABLE recipe card located at the bottom of this post.
- Sear the Chicken: Begin by heating the vegetable oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. While the pan is heating, season your boneless, skinless chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. Once the skillet is hot and the oil shimmers, carefully add the seasoned chicken. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the chicken is beautifully golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C), and the juices should run clear.
- Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate. Cover it loosely with aluminum foil to keep it warm and allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender, moist chicken.
- Create the Roux: In the same skillet (no need to clean it – those browned bits add flavor!), melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until it becomes wonderfully fragrant and lightly golden, being careful not to burn it.
- Thicken the Sauce: Whisk in the all-purpose flour into the melted butter and garlic. Cook this mixture, known as a roux, for another 1-2 minutes, continuously stirring, until no white streaks of flour remain and the roux takes on a lightly toasted, nutty aroma. This step is crucial for thickening the sauce and adding depth of flavor.
- Build the Creamy Base: Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it visibly thickens to a luxurious, creamy consistency.
- Incorporate Spinach and Artichokes: Stir in the thawed and well-drained chopped spinach along with the diced marinated artichoke hearts. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, just long enough to heat the vegetables through and allow their flavors to meld into the creamy sauce.
- Finish and Serve: Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s fully melted and incorporated into the sauce. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Return the seared chicken breasts to the pan, nestling them into the creamy spinach and artichoke sauce, to warm through. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Expert Tips for a Perfect Skillet Dinner
Achieving a truly outstanding Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Skillet is easy with these helpful tips:
- Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a little heat, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes over the finished dish adds a delightful kick and a pop of color. Adjust the amount to your preferred spice level.
- Fresh vs. Frozen Spinach: While the recipe calls for convenient frozen spinach, you can absolutely use fresh if you prefer. Just remember that fresh spinach wilts down significantly. Use approximately 10-12 ounces of fresh spinach for every 5 ounces of frozen. Sauté it until wilted and then squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the sauce.
- The Importance of the Roux: Do not skip the step of making the roux (butter and flour mixture)! This is not just for thickening; it also adds a subtle, toasty depth of flavor to the sauce that you wouldn’t get otherwise. Cook it long enough to remove the raw flour taste but not so long that it browns too much.
- When Time is Short: Life happens, and sometimes you need a shortcut. If you’re really pressed for time, you can use a good quality store-bought Alfredo sauce as a base for your creamy sauce. While the homemade version is undeniably superior and recommended for the best flavor, a store-bought option can save the day when unexpected plans arise.
- Chicken Thickness: Ensure your chicken breasts are of relatively even thickness for uniform cooking. If they are very thick, consider pounding them slightly between two sheets of plastic wrap to an even ½ to ¾ inch thickness. This helps them cook faster and more evenly.
- Drain Spinach Thoroughly: This cannot be stressed enough! Excess water from thawed spinach will dilute your creamy sauce and compromise its texture. Squeeze it really, really dry using a cheesecloth or sturdy paper towels.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When searing the chicken, cook it in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the skillet. Crowding lowers the pan’s temperature, leading to steamed rather than seared chicken.
Flavorful Variations & Ingredient Substitutions
This Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Skillet is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to customize it to your taste or dietary needs. Here are some ideas to inspire you:
- Protein Power-Ups: Instead of chicken breasts, try boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer, more succulent result. Shrimp or pork tenderloin medallions would also work beautifully, requiring shorter cooking times.
- Veggie Boost: Enhance the vegetable content by adding sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or even sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped) along with the spinach and artichokes.
- Cheese Please: While Parmesan is classic, consider stirring in a bit of cream cheese or shredded mozzarella at the end for an even creamier, stringier sauce. A touch of provolone could also add a unique twist.
- Herbal Enhancements: Boost the aromatic profile with fresh herbs like chopped fresh parsley, chives, or a hint of fresh thyme added at the end of cooking.
- Zesty Kick: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the very end can brighten up the flavors and add a refreshing zing to the rich sauce.
- Spicy Twist: For those who love heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce can be incorporated into the sauce for an extra kick.
- Gluten-Free Option: To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour in the roux with an equal amount of sweet rice flour (often labeled as glutinous rice flour, though it contains no gluten) or a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
- Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free version, use olive oil instead of butter, replace heavy cream and milk with a full-fat canned coconut milk (for creaminess) or a rich, unsweetened cashew cream, and use nutritional yeast or a dairy-free Parmesan substitute for cheesy flavor.
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
This dish is wonderfully versatile for spice additions. Beyond salt and pepper, consider Italian seasoning, Herbes de Provence, a pinch of dried thyme, oregano, or marjoram for an extra layer of Mediterranean flavor. Red pepper flakes can also add a pleasant heat.
Yes, absolutely! To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour in the sauce with an equal amount of sweet rice flour. It’s often called glutinous rice flour due to its thickening properties, but it does not contain gluten. Alternatively, a good quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend will also work effectively.
While technically possible, creamy sauces can sometimes separate or become grainy when frozen and thawed. If you plan to freeze, ensure the sauce is very thick before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently, stirring frequently and adding a little milk or cream to bring it back together if needed. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
Yes, you can use fresh artichoke hearts, but they will require more preparation. You’ll need to trim, cook, and chop them before adding them to the sauce. Marinated artichoke hearts are recommended for convenience and the added flavor they bring.
Delectable Ways to Serve Your Skillet Dinner
The beauty of this Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Skillet lies in its versatility. It’s a complete meal on its own, but here are some inspired serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience:
- Pasta Perfection: Spoon the creamy spinach and artichoke chicken over your favorite pasta – linguine, fettuccine, or penne all work wonderfully to soak up every drop of that luscious sauce.
- Garlic Bread Companion: Serve it alongside a thick slice of crusty Garlic Bread or a homemade version. The bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.
- Homemade Pasta Indulgence: If you’re feeling ambitious and want to go all out, pair this rich dish with tender Homemade Pasta for a truly gourmet experience.
- Cheesy Pull-Apart Bread: An easy yet impressive side, Italian Cheese Pull-Apart Bread is a crowd-pleaser that even your kids can help prepare.
- Lighten Up with Salad: For a lighter accompaniment, serve this skillet with a fresh and flavorful salad like a vibrant Greek Pasta Salad or a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette.
- Extra Veggies: Boost your vegetable intake by serving it alongside roasted vegetables such as Roasted Asparagus, broccoli, or green beans. Their slight crispness offers a lovely contrast to the creamy chicken.
- Rice or Quinoa: A bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or quinoa can also serve as an excellent base for this flavorful chicken and sauce.
Discover More Easy Chicken Dinner Recipes
If you’re a fan of simple, delicious chicken dinners, you’re in the right place! Explore these other fantastic chicken dinner recipes that are perfect for any night of the week:
- Marry Me Chicken
- Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
- Chicken Broccoli Alfredo
- Butter Chicken
- Cashew Chicken
- Chicken Lombardy
- Chick Fil A Grilled Nuggets
- Hawaiian Chicken
Ready to try this incredible one-pan meal? Below you’ll find the full printable recipe card with all the detailed instructions and measurements you need to create this amazing Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Skillet in your own kitchen!
Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Skillet
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Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4-6 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 Tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 5 oz frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed to drain.
- 1 14 oz jar marinated artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
Instructions
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Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, swirling to coat.
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Season chicken with salt and pepper. Add to the hot skillet, and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway, until the chicken is mostly cooked through. Remove from the heat and cover with foil to keep warm.
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In a the same skillet melt the butter over medium-high heat and sauté garlic for 1-2 minutes, until you can start to smell it.
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Add in flour, stir and cook for a couple minutes until no white streaks remain.
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Slowly whisk in heavy cream and milk and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 5-6 minutes until it starts to thicken.
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Add thawed spinach and diced artichoke hearts. Cook 2 to 3 minutes or until heated through.
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Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
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