I love dishes that feel indulgent but are still simple and healthy, and this Creamy Chicken with Mushrooms and Spinach is exactly that. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that comes together quickly, yet feels special enough for guests.
The tender chicken pieces swim in a rich, creamy sauce with earthy mushrooms and vibrant spinach, making each bite comforting and satisfying.
I usually enjoy this dish when I want a high-protein, low-carb dinner that doesn’t weigh me down, especially after a busy day. It’s versatile too—you can pair it with zucchini noodles, cauliflower mash, or even enjoy it on its own. The flavors are well-balanced, the creaminess is just right, and the spinach adds a fresh, healthy touch. I find myself making this dish repeatedly because it’s quick, nourishing, and absolutely delicious.
Here’s a quick snapshot of this recipe:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Servings | 4 |
| Calories | ~350 per serving |
| Protein | High |
| Carbs | Low |
| Fat | Moderate |
| Gluten-Free | Yes |
| Dairy-Free Option | Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream |
| Best For | Low-carb dinners, weeknight meals |
| Cooking Method | Stovetop sauté |
Why You’ll Love this Recipe
This dish is creamy, comforting, and packed with protein, making it perfect for a filling dinner.
It combines tender chicken with earthy mushrooms and fresh spinach, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal.
The creamy sauce is rich but not overpowering, giving a luxurious feel without being heavy.
It’s low in carbs, making it ideal for anyone following a keto or low-carb lifestyle.
The recipe is quick to prepare, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish.
It’s versatile—you can pair it with noodles, rice, or just enjoy it on its own.
Fresh parsley garnish adds a pop of color and a subtle flavor boost.
It’s a family-friendly recipe that adults and kids both enjoy.
Ingredients to Make Creamy Chicken with Mushrooms and Spinach
To make this creamy, comforting dish, you only need a handful of simple ingredients that come together beautifully. Each ingredient adds a unique flavor or texture, elevating the dish from ordinary to special.
Chicken breast – 1 lb, cut into bite-sized pieces
Chicken is the main protein and makes the dish hearty. Using bite-sized pieces ensures it cooks quickly and evenly, absorbing all the flavors of the sauce.
Mushrooms – 1 cup, sliced
Mushrooms bring an earthy, savory flavor that complements the chicken perfectly. They also add a meaty texture, making each bite satisfying.
Spinach – 2 cups, fresh
Spinach adds color, nutrients, and freshness to the dish. It wilts quickly in the creamy sauce, keeping a tender texture and vibrant green color.
Garlic cloves – 3, minced
Garlic provides a fragrant base that enhances the overall flavor. Sautéing it briefly prevents it from becoming bitter.
Heavy cream or coconut cream – ½ cup
This creates the rich, creamy sauce that makes the dish indulgent. Coconut cream is a great dairy-free alternative.
Olive oil or butter – 2 tbsp
Used for sautéing the chicken and mushrooms, it adds flavor and ensures nothing sticks to the pan.
Salt and black pepper – to taste
Essential for seasoning, salt enhances the flavors, while pepper adds a subtle heat.
Parmesan cheese – ¼ cup, optional
Parmesan adds extra richness and a savory depth to the sauce. It melts into the cream, making it silky and smooth.
Fresh parsley – for garnish
Parsley brightens the dish with a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
Steps to Make Creamy Chicken with Mushrooms and Spinach
Making this dish is straightforward and quick, with simple steps that deliver maximum flavor. Following each step carefully ensures the chicken is tender, the mushrooms are flavorful, and the sauce is perfectly creamy.
Step 1: Cook the chicken
Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5–6 minutes until lightly golden and fully cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. This ensures it doesn’t overcook while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Sauté mushrooms and garlic
In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are tender and aromatic.
This step releases the earthy flavors of the mushrooms and the fragrant aroma of garlic, forming the base of your creamy sauce.
Step 3: Make the creamy sauce
Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream or coconut cream. Stir gently to combine and create a smooth mixture.
If using Parmesan cheese, add it now to enrich the sauce, and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Add spinach and chicken
Stir in the fresh spinach and cooked chicken. Cook for 1–2 minutes, just until the spinach wilts and the chicken is coated evenly with the creamy sauce.
Make sure to fold the ingredients gently to preserve the texture of the spinach and maintain the creaminess of the sauce.
Step 5: Garnish and serve
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture.
This method ensures the chicken remains tender, the mushrooms are flavorful, and the sauce is creamy and luxurious.
Serving Suggestions
This Creamy Chicken with Mushrooms and Spinach pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, making it versatile for different tastes. I often serve it with cauliflower mash for a low-carb option that soaks up the creamy sauce perfectly.
Zucchini noodles are another great choice, adding a light, fresh texture that complements the richness of the dish. You can also pair it with a simple green salad for a healthy, balanced dinner that’s full of flavor.
For a more hearty meal, serve it alongside roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans. The vegetables add a slight crunch and freshness that balances the creamy sauce.
It’s also delicious when spooned over rice or quinoa if you want a higher-carb option. The sauce coats the grains nicely, making each bite rich and satisfying.
If you’re feeling indulgent, you can serve it with crusty bread to mop up every bit of the creamy sauce. This makes the dish feel more luxurious while still being simple to prepare.
Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving enhances both the flavor and presentation. It creates a vibrant, appetizing look that makes the dish irresistible.
This dish is flexible enough for both weeknight dinners and casual weekend meals. I often make it when I want something quick yet comforting that the whole family enjoys.
Meal Prep Tips: Can We Make Creamy Chicken with Mushrooms and Spinach in Advance?
Yes, this dish can be made in advance and stored for later meals. I usually prepare the chicken, mushrooms, and creamy sauce separately, then combine them when reheating to maintain the best texture.
Store the cooked chicken and mushroom mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The spinach can be added fresh during reheating to keep it vibrant and tender.
When storing, avoid adding the cream or cheese if you plan to reheat, as these can sometimes separate. Instead, stir in fresh cream or cheese when reheating to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
If freezing, portion the dish into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop.
Reheating on low heat is key to keeping the chicken tender and preventing the sauce from curdling. I usually cover the pan while reheating to retain moisture.
This method allows you to enjoy a fresh-tasting meal even on busy days. It’s perfect for preparing several portions ahead of time for quick weeknight dinners.
Cooking Tips
Use bite-sized chicken pieces to ensure even cooking and faster preparation. Smaller pieces also absorb the flavors of the sauce more effectively.
Cook mushrooms thoroughly to release their moisture and intensify their earthy flavor. Overcrowding the pan can cause them to steam rather than sauté, so cook in batches if needed.
For the creamiest sauce, use heavy cream or full-fat coconut cream. Low-fat options may not thicken as well and could result in a thinner sauce.
Add spinach at the very end to avoid overcooking. Spinach wilts quickly and retains its nutrients and vibrant color when added last.
Season gradually, tasting as you go. Chicken and mushrooms absorb flavors well, but adding salt and pepper in stages ensures the final dish is perfectly balanced.
Stir the sauce gently to prevent splitting, especially when using cream. A slow, consistent stir keeps the texture smooth and velvety.
Optional Parmesan cheese adds richness, but ensure it melts completely before combining with chicken. This step prevents clumps and creates a silky sauce.
Variations of Creamy Chicken with Mushrooms and Spinach
You can make this dish with different types of mushrooms like cremini, shiitake, or portobello for varied flavors. Each mushroom type brings a unique taste and texture to the dish.
Swap spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a heartier green option. These greens hold up well in creamy sauces and add slightly different flavors and textures.
For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and omit Parmesan cheese. This still produces a rich, flavorful sauce without compromising on creaminess.
Add sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy, sweet twist. They pair beautifully with the creamy sauce and give the dish a Mediterranean flair.
For extra spice, incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika. It adds warmth and a subtle heat without overpowering the delicate flavors.
You can also turn this into a one-pan skillet meal by adding pre-cooked quinoa or rice. This variation makes it a complete meal with protein, greens, and carbs all in one.
Mix in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts at the end for added crunch. The nuts complement the creamy sauce and mushrooms with a pleasant texture contrast.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the dish has cooled to room temperature before sealing to maintain quality.
For longer storage, freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months. Label the containers with the date to ensure you use them within a safe timeframe.
Avoid storing with spinach already mixed in if freezing. Add fresh spinach when reheating to maintain color and texture.
When refrigerating, keep the sauce and chicken together to allow flavors to meld. Stir gently before reheating to redistribute the creamy sauce evenly.
Freezing is best for portions that will be reheated once. Repeated freezing and thawing can alter the texture of the chicken and the creaminess of the sauce.
Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to prevent freezer burn. Remove as much air as possible to preserve flavor and texture.
Always check for freshness before consuming leftovers. If anything smells off or looks different, discard to be safe.
Can We Reheat Creamy Chicken with Mushrooms and Spinach
Yes, this dish reheats very well with a few careful steps. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to maintain creaminess and prevent overcooking the chicken.
Add a splash of cream, milk, or coconut milk while reheating if the sauce has thickened too much. This restores its original texture and richness.
Do not microwave on high for extended periods, as this can cause the sauce to separate. Use short intervals and stir in between to evenly heat the dish.
Reheat only the portion you plan to eat for the best texture. This keeps the sauce creamy and the chicken tender without drying out.
If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This ensures even heating and prevents overcooking certain parts while others remain cold.
Garnish with fresh parsley or herbs after reheating to refresh the dish and enhance visual appeal. It brings back the vibrant look and flavor of the freshly cooked meal.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes, chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness. Just adjust cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Absolutely. It’s low in carbs and high in protein, making it perfect for keto or low-carb diets.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and skip the Parmesan cheese. The dish remains creamy and flavorful.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely. Bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli can be added to increase nutrition and flavor. Add them according to cooking time so they don’t overcook.
How do I prevent the cream from curdling?
Reheat slowly on low heat and avoid boiling the sauce. Adding cream at the end and stirring gently helps maintain a smooth texture.
Can I meal prep this for the week?
Yes, store chicken and sauce separately from spinach, then combine when reheating. This keeps the spinach fresh and prevents it from becoming mushy.
Can I freeze the dish?
Yes, freeze in portions without spinach for up to 2 months. Add fresh spinach when reheating for best results.
What sides go well with this dish?
Cauliflower mash, zucchini noodles, steamed vegetables, or a simple salad are excellent low-carb options. Rice or quinoa can be used for higher-carb variations.
How do I make the sauce extra creamy?
Use full-fat heavy cream or coconut cream and optionally add Parmesan cheese. Stir gently and let it simmer for a couple of minutes to thicken perfectly.
Conclusion
Creamy Chicken with Mushrooms and Spinach is a comforting, protein-packed dish that’s quick and easy to make. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something indulgent yet healthy.
The combination of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and fresh spinach in a rich, creamy sauce makes every bite satisfying. Pair it with low-carb sides or enjoy it on its own for a complete meal.
It’s versatile, allowing for variations with different vegetables, spices, or dairy-free options, making it suitable for any dietary preference. The recipe also reheats well and can be made ahead for meal prep convenience.
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen. It’s a go-to recipe that I keep returning to for its flavor, ease, and nutritional value.
I hope this recipe inspires you to enjoy a creamy, flavorful, and healthy dinner that feels special every time. It’s truly a dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the table.
