Chicken mushroom spinach skillet: Prepare to be amazed by this one-pan wonder that’s about to revolutionize your weeknight dinners! Imagine tender, juicy chicken nestled amongst earthy mushrooms and vibrant spinach, all bathed in a creamy, flavorful sauce. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

While the exact origins of combining these ingredients in a skillet are somewhat modern, the individual components boast rich histories. Chicken has been a staple protein source for centuries across various cultures, while mushrooms have been prized for their unique flavor and medicinal properties since ancient times. Spinach, too, has a long and storied past, believed to have originated in Persia. The beauty of this chicken mushroom spinach skillet lies in its ability to bring together these classic ingredients in a harmonious and convenient way.

People adore this dish for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly delicious! The combination of savory chicken, earthy mushrooms, and slightly bitter spinach creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. The creamy sauce adds a touch of indulgence, making it a truly satisfying meal. Secondly, it’s incredibly easy to make. Everything cooks in one skillet, minimizing cleanup and maximizing your precious time. Finally, it’s a healthy and nutritious option, packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals. What’s not to love?

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each), cut into 1-inch pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Mushroom Spinach Sauce:

1 tablespoon olive oil
8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
5 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins/Serving Suggestions:

Cooked pasta (such as penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
Cooked rice (white or brown)
Crusty bread, for serving
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Additional Parmesan cheese, for serving

Preparing the Chicken:

Prepare the Chicken Pieces: Start by cutting your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch in size. This will help them cook quickly and evenly in the skillet. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step, as it helps the chicken brown nicely instead of steaming.
Season the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if using). Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated with the spices. I like to use my hands to make sure every piece is well-seasoned.
Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the skillet is nice and hot before adding the chicken. Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the hot skillet in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches to ensure proper browning. Cook the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until it’s golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Remove the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Don’t worry if there are some browned bits left in the skillet those will add flavor to the sauce!

Making the Mushroom Spinach Sauce:

Sauté the Mushrooms: In the same skillet (no need to clean it!), add another tablespoon of olive oil. Heat the oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are softened and browned. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Mushrooms release a lot of moisture, so let them cook until that moisture evaporates and they start to brown.
Add the Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped yellow onion to the skillet with the mushrooms and cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until the onion is softened and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
Wilt the Spinach: Add the roughly chopped fresh spinach to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted. You might need to add the spinach in batches, as it can take up a lot of space initially. Stir frequently to ensure the spinach wilts evenly.
Create the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Then, stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to simmer for another 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Season the Sauce: Stir in the lemon juice and season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. The lemon juice adds a nice brightness to the sauce.

Combining and Serving:

Add the Chicken Back In: Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet with the mushroom spinach sauce. Stir everything together to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce.
Heat Through: Let the chicken and sauce simmer together for a few more minutes to heat the chicken through and allow the flavors to meld together even further.
Serve: Serve the chicken mushroom spinach skillet immediately over cooked pasta (such as penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti), cooked rice (white or brown), or with crusty bread for dipping. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Tips and Variations:

Spice it Up: If you like a little more heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or use a spicy Italian sausage instead of chicken.
Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the skillet, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or sun-dried tomatoes.
Use Different Mushrooms: You can use any type of mushrooms you like in this recipe, such as shiitake, oyster, or button mushrooms.
Make it Lighter: To make this dish lighter, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of Parmesan cheese. You can also use chicken broth instead of olive oil to sauté the vegetables.
Make it Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and chicken in a skillet and combine them.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving Suggestions in Detail:

While the Chicken Mushroom Spinach Skillet is delicious on its own, pairing it with the right sides can elevate the meal to a whole new level. Here are some detailed serving suggestions to consider:

Pasta Perfection: Toss the skillet mixture with your favorite pasta shape. Penne, fettuccine, and spaghetti are classic choices that work well with the creamy sauce. For a healthier option, consider using whole wheat pasta or a gluten-free alternative. To prevent the pasta from becoming soggy, cook it al dente and add it to the skillet just before serving. Reserve some pasta water to thin out the sauce if needed.
Rice is Right: Serve the skillet mixture over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice. The rice will soak up the delicious sauce and provide a satisfying base for the chicken and vegetables. For added flavor, try cooking the rice in chicken broth instead of water. Quinoa is another great option for a healthier alternative.
Crusty Bread Companion: A loaf of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. Serve the skillet mixture in a bowl and provide slices of bread for dipping. Sourdough, baguette, or Italian bread are all excellent choices. You can also toast the bread for a crispier texture.
Garlic Bread Glamour: Take your bread game to the next level by serving the skillet mixture with garlic bread. Spread softened butter mixed with minced garlic and parsley on slices of bread and bake them in the oven until golden brown and crispy. The garlic bread will add a delicious aroma and flavor to the meal.
Side Salad Sensations: A simple side salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and creamy skillet mixture. Toss mixed greens with a light vinaigrette dressing and add some cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and carrots for extra flavor and texture.
Roasted Vegetable Variety: Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts, can add a healthy and flavorful side dish to the meal. Toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast them in the oven until tender and slightly caramelized.
Mashed Potato Magic: Creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting and satisfying side dish that pairs well with the skillet mixture. For added flavor, try adding garlic, herbs, or cheese to the mashed potatoes.

Wine Pairing Suggestions:

To enhance your dining experience, consider pairing the Chicken Mushroom Spinach Skillet with a complementary wine. Here are a few suggestions:

Chardonnay: A buttery Chardonnay with notes of

Conclusion:

This Chicken Mushroom Spinach Skillet isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! I truly believe this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your rotation. The combination of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and vibrant spinach, all bathed in a creamy, garlicky sauce, is simply irresistible. It’s quick, easy, and satisfying everything you could want in a meal. But beyond the convenience, it’s the taste that really sets this dish apart. The savory depth of the mushrooms perfectly complements the lean protein of the chicken, while the spinach adds a touch of freshness and vital nutrients. And that sauce? Oh, that sauce! It’s the glue that binds all the flavors together, creating a symphony of deliciousness in every bite.

But don’t just take my word for it you absolutely have to try it for yourself! I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel good from the inside out, nourishing your body and soul.

And the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! Feel free to get creative and adapt the recipe to your own tastes. For a heartier meal, serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes. You could also toss it with your favorite pasta for a comforting and satisfying dish. Looking for a low-carb option? Serve it on its own or with a side of cauliflower rice.

Here are a few more serving suggestions and variations to inspire you:

* Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little kick.
* Add some cheese: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese over the top before serving for an extra layer of richness.
* Make it vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or white beans for a vegetarian-friendly option.
* Use different vegetables: Feel free to swap out the spinach for kale or add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
* Creamy Tomato Variation: Add a can of diced tomatoes (drained) and a tablespoon of tomato paste to the sauce for a tangy twist.

The possibilities are endless! This Chicken Mushroom Spinach Skillet is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. I encourage you to try this recipe this week. I know you will love it.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the deliciousness for yourself! Once you’ve made it, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? What did you serve it with? What did your family think? Share your thoughts and photos in the comments below! Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to continue creating recipes that you’ll love. So go ahead, give this Chicken Mushroom Spinach Skillet a try you won’t regret it! Happy cooking!
Chicken Mushroom Spinach Skillet: Easy One-Pan Recipe

Tender chicken simmered in a creamy mushroom and spinach sauce. Serve over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread for a comforting and flavorful meal.

Prep Time15 minutes

Cook Time25 minutes

Total Time40 minutes

Category: Dinner

Yield: 4 servings

Save This Recipe

Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken Pieces: Cut chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces. Pat dry with paper towels.
2. Season the Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat.
3. Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer (cook in batches if needed). Cook 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C).
4. Remove the Chicken: Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
5. Sauté the Mushrooms: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Heat over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and cook 5-7 minutes, until softened and browned, stirring occasionally.
6. Add the Onion and Garlic: Add chopped onion and cook 3-5 minutes, until softened. Add minced garlic and cook 1 minute, until fragrant.
7. Wilt the Spinach: Add chopped spinach and cook 2-3 minutes, until wilted, stirring frequently.
8. Create the Sauce: Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Simmer for a few minutes. Stir in heavy cream (or half-and-half) and Parmesan cheese. Simmer 2-3 minutes, until sauce thickens slightly.
9. Season the Sauce: Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Add the Chicken Back In: Return cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Stir to coat.
11. Heat Through: Simmer for a few minutes to heat chicken through and meld flavors.
12. Serve: Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread. Garnish with parsley and Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Notes
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or use a spicy Italian sausage instead of chicken.
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the skillet, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or sun-dried tomatoes.
- Use Different Mushrooms: You can use any type of mushrooms you like in this recipe, such as shiitake, oyster, or button mushrooms.
- Make it Lighter: To make this dish lighter, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of Parmesan cheese. You can also use chicken broth instead of olive oil to sauté the vegetables.
- Make it Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and chicken in a skillet and combine them.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Chicken Mushroom Spinach Skillet: Easy One-Pan Recipe