Looking for a quick and tasty meal? Look no further! This One-Pan Spinach Artichoke Chicken is perfect for busy nights. You can whip it up with just a few ingredients and minimal cleanup. Golden chicken, creamy cheese, and fresh greens come together in a flavorful dish that the whole family will love. Ready to impress your loved ones? Let’s dive into this simple recipe that will make dinner a breeze!
Ingredients
List of Required Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
– 1 cup canned artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh parsley for garnish
To create this One-Pan Spinach Artichoke Chicken, you need just a few simple ingredients. First, get your chicken. The boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to cook and taste great. Next, grab fresh spinach and canned artichoke hearts. They add a nice flavor and color.
For the creamy goodness, you will need cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella. Each cheese brings its own unique taste. Don’t forget your seasonings! Garlic powder and onion powder give the chicken a delicious flavor. Lastly, use olive oil for cooking and fresh parsley for garnish.
With these ingredients in hand, you can make a tasty and simple meal that everyone will love. Each bite is creamy, savory, and full of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
Preheating the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is key to getting that cheese nice and bubbly later.
Seasoning and Searing the Chicken Breasts
In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. While the oil heats, season 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts with 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder, salt, and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken. Sear each side for 5-7 minutes until golden brown. This caramelization adds flavor. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
Making the Spinach Artichoke Mixture
Sautéing Spinach and Artichokes
In the same skillet, add 1 cup of chopped fresh spinach and 1 cup of drained, chopped canned artichoke hearts. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts down. This step brings out the flavors of the spinach and artichokes.
Adding Cream Cheese and Parmesan
Lower the heat and add 1 cup of softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and becomes creamy. You want a smooth mixture that will coat the chicken beautifully.
Final Assembly and Baking
Combining Ingredients in the Skillet
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon the creamy spinach-artichoke mixture over each piece. This adds a rich flavor that pairs well with the chicken.
Baking Time and Cheese Melting Tips
Sprinkle 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Look for the cheese to be bubbly and slightly golden. That’s when it’s ready to come out!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Chicken
How to Ensure Chicken Stays Juicy
To keep your chicken juicy, start by searing it well. Use medium heat and cook for 5-7 minutes per side. This helps lock in moisture. Let the chicken rest after cooking. Resting for a few minutes helps the juices settle.
Best Cooking Temperature
The best cooking temperature for this dish is 375°F (190°C). This heat cooks the chicken evenly. It also helps melt the cheese without burning it. Always use a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to be safe to eat.
Ingredient Tips
Fresh vs. Canned Spinach and Artichokes
Using fresh spinach gives a bright flavor. It wilts down nicely in the pan. Canned artichokes are a great time-saver. They’re already cooked and easy to chop. If using fresh artichokes, cook them first to soften.
Cheese Substitutions for Diet Preferences
If you need a cheese swap, try ricotta or goat cheese. These can add a different flavor. For a dairy-free option, use a plant-based cream cheese. Nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy taste without dairy.
Variations
Dietary Adjustments
Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly Options
To make this dish low-carb, skip the cream cheese and use Greek yogurt instead. You can replace the chicken with cauliflower or zucchini for a keto-friendly version. These swaps keep the flavors rich while cutting down on carbs.
Vegetarian Versions
For a vegetarian twist, omit the chicken and double the spinach and artichokes. You can also add chickpeas for protein. This keeps the dish filling and satisfying while keeping it meat-free.
Flavor Enhancements
Adding Different Spices and Herbs
To boost flavor, try adding cumin, paprika, or Italian seasoning. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can also brighten up the dish. These additions make each bite exciting and fresh.
Incorporating Additional Vegetables
You can add bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli to the spinach artichoke mixture. These veggies not only add color but also enhance the nutrition of the dish. Feel free to mix and match based on what you have at home.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your One-Pan Spinach Artichoke Chicken fresh, follow these tips:
– Refrigeration Guidelines: Place leftovers in an airtight container. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure the chicken cools down before sealing the container. This helps to keep the chicken moist and tasty.
– Freezing Options for Meal Prep: You can freeze this dish too! Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Then, place it in a freezer bag. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Instructions
To enjoy your leftovers, you’ll want to reheat them well:
– Best Methods to Retain Flavor and Texture: Use the oven for best results. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes. This keeps the cheese melty and the chicken juicy.
You can also use the microwave if you’re in a hurry. Just cover the chicken with a damp paper towel and heat in short bursts. Check every minute to avoid drying it out.
FAQs
Common Questions
How Long to Cook Chicken in One Pan?
You should cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side. This gives it a nice, golden brown color. After that, bake it in the oven for about 15-20 minutes. The chicken needs to reach 165°F (74°C) to be safe to eat.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just make sure to thaw them first. Cook them longer if they are still cold in the center. Searing the outside first helps to lock in the juices.
Nutritional Information
Calories and Macronutrient Breakdown
One serving of this dish has about 400 calories. It includes protein from chicken and cheese, and healthy fats from olive oil. The meal also provides carbs mainly from the artichokes and spinach.
Health Benefits of Spinach and Artichokes
Spinach is packed with vitamins A, C, and K. It also has iron and calcium. Artichokes are high in fiber and antioxidants. Together, they help support heart health and improve digestion.
This post covered how to make a tasty spinach artichoke chicken dish. We discussed the ingredients you need, like chicken breasts, spinach, and cheese. I provided step-by-step instructions on preparing the chicken and mixing the artichoke blend.
Remember, you can adjust the recipe for diet needs or add extra flavors. Storing leftovers is simple, and I shared the best reheating tips to keep your meal fresh. Enjoy your cooking adventure and make this dish your own!
