Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and easy dinner that won't keep you slaving away in the kitchen? Look no further! This chicken spinach mushroom recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's packed with flavor, nutritious ingredients, and comes together in under 30 minutes. This simple recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike, making it a staple for your homemade cooking repertoire. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 5 oz fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the garlic and mushrooms and cook until the mushrooms are tender, about 5 minutes more.
Step 3: Combine and Simmer
Stir in the spinach, chicken broth, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the spinach has wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Add Chicken and Serve
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir to combine and heat through. Serve immediately over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer the mixture for a few more minutes uncovered to reduce the liquid.
- Feel free to add other vegetables to this dish, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots.
- Don't overcook the chicken; it should be cooked through but still juicy.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Variations:
- Creamy Tomato Chicken Spinach Mushroom: Add 1/2 cup of crushed tomatoes to the sauce for a richer flavor.
- Spicy Chicken Spinach Mushroom: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
- Lemon Herb Chicken Spinach Mushroom: Add the zest and juice of one lemon along with fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a delicious and healthy meal, packed with protein and vital nutrients. The exact nutritional values will vary slightly based on the specific ingredients used and serving size. However, a reasonable estimate per serving (assuming 4 servings) includes approximately:
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This easy chicken spinach mushroom recipe is a perfect example of quick dinner ideas that are both healthy meals and delicious dishes. It's a fantastic addition to your collection of best recipes and a great way to enjoy homemade cooking without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy!