Lemon Parmesan Spinach Chicken

Tender and juicy, Lemon Parmesan Spinach Chicken is a delightful dish that combines creamy parmesan sauce with fresh spinach and zesty lemon. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish is quick and easy to prepare. Its standout qualities include a rich flavor profile and a beautiful presentation, making it a sure hit at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 30 minutes needed from start to finish, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights.
• Creamy Flavor: The combination of heavy cream and parmesan creates a rich, comforting sauce that elevates the chicken.
• Healthy Greens: Packed with fresh spinach, this dish adds a nutritious element without sacrificing taste.
• Versatile Pairing: Serve it over rice, pasta, or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make the cooking process seamless, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large sauté pan
• Meat mallet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large sauté pan: This allows for even cooking of the chicken and easy mixing of the sauce.
• Meat mallet: Ensures even thickness in chicken breasts for consistent cooking.

Ingredients

Tender chicken in a creamy parmesan sauce with plenty of fresh spinach and lemon flavor. Quick and easy!

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• salt and pepper (for seasoning the chicken)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce

• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• juice of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon zest of 1 lemon
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For Garnish

• 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
• additional Parmesan cheese for garnish
• thinly sliced lemon for garnish

 

How to Make Lemon Parmesan Spinach Chicken

Step 1: Prep Chicken

Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet. Then, season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same pan, sauté the minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring this mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream. Simmer for 5 minutes while stirring occasionally until slightly thickened. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.

Step 4: Add Spinach and Combine

Add fresh spinach to the sauce and cook for about 1 minute until it wilts. Return cooked chicken to the pan, spooning sauce over it. Sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese over both chicken and spinach. Cover the pan and cook for another 2 minutes to allow cheese to melt.

Step 5: Serve

Garnish with thinly sliced lemon and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious Lemon Parmesan Spinach Chicken!

How to Serve Lemon Parmesan Spinach Chicken

Serving Lemon Parmesan Spinach Chicken is a delightful experience that brings out the fresh flavors of lemon, creamy sauce, and tender chicken. Here are some creative ways to enhance your meal.

With Pasta

• Linguine or Fettuccine: Toss cooked pasta in the creamy sauce for a hearty dish.
• Penne with Garlic Bread: Serve with penne pasta and garlic bread for a comforting dinner.

Over Rice

• White Rice: Spoon the chicken and sauce over fluffy white rice to soak up the flavors.
• Quinoa: For a healthier option, serve it over quinoa for added nutrition.

Salad Style

• Mixed Green Salad: Serve the chicken on a bed of mixed greens, drizzled with extra lemon vinaigrette.
• Spinach Salad: Pair with fresh spinach leaves, cherry tomatoes, and a light dressing.

With Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Offer slices of crusty baguette to mop up the delicious sauce.
• Garlic Knots: Serve warm garlic knots as a fun side that complements the dish perfectly.

How to Perfect Lemon Parmesan Spinach Chicken

To ensure your Lemon Parmesan Spinach Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and lemons will heighten the flavor profile of your dish.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce before serving; adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
• Cook Chicken Evenly: Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Avoid overcooking by keeping an eye on chicken while it’s in the pan; it should be golden brown and cooked through.
• Let It Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a couple of minutes after cooking for juicier meat.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try adding different cheeses like mozzarella for a twist on flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Parmesan Spinach Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Lemon Parmesan Spinach Chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some great suggestions.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender adds color and nutrition.
3. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with olive oil complements the flavors beautifully.
4. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that soaks up the sauce well while adding fiber to your meal.
5. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts bring crunch and a slightly sweet flavor that pairs nicely.
6. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous seasoned with herbs can balance the richness of the chicken dish.

 

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Lemon Parmesan Spinach Chicken can be a delight, but there are some common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Not pounding the chicken – Failing to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness may result in uneven cooking. Use a meat mallet for best results.
• Overcooking the chicken – Cooking the chicken too long can lead to dryness. Aim for a golden brown color and check for doneness with a meat thermometer.
• Ignoring seasoning – Skipping seasoning can leave your dish bland. Always season your chicken well before cooking.
• Adding spinach too early – Adding spinach too soon can make it overcooked and mushy. Wait until the sauce is ready before adding it.
• Forgetting garnishes – Neglecting fresh lemon slices or extra Parmesan cheese can diminish presentation and flavor. Always garnish just before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Use within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Lemon Parmesan Spinach Chicken

• Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label and date your containers before freezing.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Lemon Parmesan Spinach Chicken

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover lightly, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop – Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed, until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lemon Parmesan Spinach Chicken?

Lemon Parmesan Spinach Chicken is a dish made with tender chicken cooked in a creamy sauce flavored with lemon, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, complemented by fresh spinach.

How do I make Lemon Parmesan Spinach Chicken gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure that any broth used is labeled gluten-free and check that your Parmesan cheese does not contain additives with gluten.

Can I use other types of cheese instead of Parmesan?

Yes! You can substitute other hard cheeses like Asiago or Pecorino Romano if you prefer different flavors.

How do I customize Lemon Parmesan Spinach Chicken?

Feel free to add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for additional flavor. You could also swap spinach with kale or another leafy green based on your preference.

What should I serve with Lemon Parmesan Spinach Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

 

Final Thoughts

Lemon Parmesan Spinach Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. It makes for an easy weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests. Customize it as you wish and enjoy the burst of flavors this recipe offers!