Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious dinner recipe? Look no further! This spinach chicken thigh recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and offers a burst of fresh flavor that the whole family will love. It's a fantastic example of easy recipes that don't compromise on taste or nutrition. Forget complicated cooking techniques; this recipe is surprisingly simple, making it ideal for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs seeking a satisfying homemade meal. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 10 oz fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
-
Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for your delicious dish.
-
Brown the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning.
-
Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the chopped spinach, diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the spinach is wilted.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Once the chicken is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the spinach chicken thighs hot, garnished with fresh Parmesan cheese, if desired. This healthy meal is perfect on its own or served over rice, quinoa, or pasta for a more substantial meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Adjust Seasoning to Your Taste: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your preference. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite flavor profile.
- Add Other Vegetables: This recipe is easily adaptable. Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.
Variations:
- Creamy Spinach Chicken: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or coconut milk during the last few minutes of cooking for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Lemon Herb Chicken: Add the zest and juice of 1 lemon along with the herbs for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Spicy Chicken: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This spinach chicken thigh recipe is a perfect example of quick dinner ideas that are both healthy and delicious. It's a simple, satisfying meal that's perfect for busy weeknights, and it's easily customizable to suit your preferences. Enjoy this fantastic addition to your collection of best recipes!