Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy chicken dish with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach is a quick and easy Italian-inspired meal. Made in just one pan, it’s perfect for a fast weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup! The richness of the cream sauce, the savory sun-dried tomatoes, and the fresh spinach make this dish incredibly satisfying and packed with flavor. Whether served over pasta or cauliflower rice, it’s a guaranteed hit for the whole family.

One-Pan Creamy Chicken and Spinach

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 ½ lbs skinless boneless chicken breasts or chicken tenderloins
2 tablespoons butter
⅓ cup finely diced onion
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons chopped sun-dried tomatoes
2 ounces cream cheese, softened
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 cups spinach leaves (about 3 ounces)
Optional: Chopped fresh basil for garnish

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper and cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is no longer pink inside. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Add butter, onions, garlic, and crushed red pepper to the pan. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the onions are soft and fragrant.
Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, sun-dried tomatoes, and cream cheese. Simmer for a couple of minutes, whisking until the sauce is creamy.
Add the Parmesan cheese and spinach, stirring until the spinach has wilted. Simmer until the sauce reaches your desired thickness. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Return the cooked chicken to the pan, allowing it to warm in the sauce. Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve plain, over pasta, or over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 621 kcal per serving

Variations

Add Veggies: You can throw in extra vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.
Make it Spicy: Increase the crushed red pepper or add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
Cheese Variations: Swap the Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor, or add a handful of mozzarella for extra creaminess.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs will add extra flavor and tenderness, making a great substitute for breasts.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

Fresh tomatoes can be used, but sun-dried tomatoes add a depth of flavor that’s hard to replicate. If you’re using fresh, consider adding a bit of extra seasoning.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can make the sauce and store it in the fridge for up to a day. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce, add the chicken, and finish with the spinach.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can use dairy-free cream and cream cheese as a substitute for a dairy-free version.

Can I serve this over something other than pasta or cauliflower rice?

Absolutely! This dish would also be delicious served over rice, quinoa, or even mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.

Conclusion

This One-Pan Creamy Chicken and Spinach is the perfect weeknight meal that combines ease with delicious, comforting flavors. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, it’s sure to become a go-to dinner in your household. Whether you’re serving it over pasta or keeping it low-carb, this dish is a winner every time!