Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken With Spinach

Name: Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken With Spinach
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon; Zest of 1 lemon; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Wellness Table Creations

I absolutely love this Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken With Spinach recipe! The bright flavors of lemon paired with the richness of cream create a delightful symphony that exudes comfort. When I first made this dish, I was amazed at how quickly it came together while satisfying those intense cravings for something creamy and delicious. The addition of fresh spinach not only boosts the nutrition but also adds a beautiful color to the plate. This recipe has quickly become a staple in our home, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Created by

Phoebe Drake

Last updated on 2026-02-28T08:06:35.992Z

When I first whipped up this Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken, I was immediately taken by how well the lemon and garlic flavors complemented each other. The creaminess of the sauce not only delivers a comforting texture but elevates the chicken's natural flavors. A tip I learned is to let the garlic sauté just until fragrant before adding the cream, which avoids any bitterness and ensures a fresh taste.

One memorable instance was when I served this dish for dinner guests, and everyone went back for seconds. It sparked conversations about the bright and zesty notes in the sauce. Making sure to use fresh lemon juice makes all the difference in achieving that vibrant flavor. I can't wait for you to try it!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Zesty lemon flavor balanced with savory garlic
Creamy sauce that perfectly coats the chicken
Packed with nutritious spinach for added health benefits
Quick and easy to prepare, ideal for any night

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest is what truly elevates this dish. The heavy cream adds a luscious richness, making the sauce creamy and indulgent. Meanwhile, the acidity of the lemon juice cuts through the richness, providing balance and brightness. For a lighter variation, you can substitute half-and-half with some cornstarch to thicken it, or use coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.

Fresh spinach plays a critical role in this recipe not only for its nutritional benefits but also for its vibrant color. When sautéed, it wilts beautifully and integrates seamlessly into the creamy sauce. If you're looking for substitutions, kale or Swiss chard can also work, though they may require a slightly longer cooking time to achieve tenderness.

Mastering the Cooking Technique

Cooking the chicken properly is essential for achieving that golden-brown color and juicy texture. Ensure the skillet is adequately heated before adding the chicken; this allows for better searing. If the chicken starts to stick, it could be a sign that it’s not ready to flip yet. A meat thermometer can be handy here; the chicken is perfectly cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

When making the sauce, be cautious with the heat level. If the cream boils too vigorously, it may separate, leading to a grainy texture. I recommend keeping it at a gentle simmer while incorporating the spinach. This allows the spinach to soften without overcooking, preserving its vibrant green color.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Creamy Sauce

3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon
Zest of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.

Add Spinach and Lemon

Stir in the chopped spinach, lemon juice, lemon zest, and dried thyme. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the sauce thickens slightly.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, coating it with the creamy sauce. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving. Serve hot with your choice of sides.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick of flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the creamy sauce. This will elevate the dish and give it a nice warmth. Additionally, serving this chicken over a bed of rice or pasta ensures that every bite is filled with the delicious sauce.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the creamy texture, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid using the microwave, as it can cause the sauce to separate. If it looks a bit thick after reheating, add a splash of broth or more cream to bring it back to the desired consistency.

To freeze this dish, allow it to cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned above. Be mindful that the spinach may lose some of its vibrant color and texture upon reheating.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken pairs beautifully with various side dishes. For a nutritious meal, serve it over a bed of quinoa or alongside steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli, which complement the creamy sauce well. A side of garlic bread could also be a delightful addition, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

If you're looking to make this dish a bit heartier, consider serving it over pasta. The creamy sauce clings well to noodles, making each bite a flavor-packed experience. You can use any type of pasta, but I recommend fettuccine or penne for the best results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work well! Just adjust the cooking time as they may take longer to cook through.

→ Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative.

→ Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or even sun-dried tomatoes would be excellent additions to the sauce.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat.