Chicken and Spinach Skillet Delight: The Ultimate Chicken and Spinach Recipe
Introduction to Chicken and Spinach Skillet Delight
Cooking should be a joyful experience, especially when you can whip up a delicious and nutritious meal in just 30 minutes! Today, I’m excited to share my Chicken and Spinach Skillet Delight recipe, a dish that marries tender chicken with vibrant spinach, all in a savory tomato sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is not just quick to prepare but also packed with flavors that will delight your taste buds.
A Personal Story Behind My Chicken and Spinach Journey
Growing up, my family always valued hearty, home-cooked meals. One dish that often graced our dinner table was a simple chicken stir-fry with whatever vegetables we had on hand. As I began to experiment more in the kitchen, I found that adding spinach not only enhanced the flavor but also boosted the nutritional value. This Chicken and Spinach Skillet Delight is a culmination of those fond memories and my passion for healthy cooking.
What Makes This Chicken and Spinach Recipe Special?
What sets this Chicken and Spinach Skillet Delight apart is its simplicity and versatility. The use of fresh ingredients like baby spinach and juicy tomatoes creates a light yet satisfying meal that’s full of color and flavor. Plus, it’s easy to adapt! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for a heartier dish, making it a true crowd-pleaser for family dinners or casual get-togethers.
The Full Chicken and Spinach Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup baby spinach, packed tight
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a sauté pan over medium to high heat. This is crucial for achieving that nice browning on your chicken.
- Add the chicken strips to the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned, about 10 minutes. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan for even cooking.
- Stir in the diced onion and cook until the onion is soft, about 3-4 minutes. The aroma of sautéing onions will make your kitchen smell amazing!
- Add the undrained diced tomatoes, water, and all the seasonings (basil, oregano, pepper, salt, and garlic powder) to the pan. Bring the mixture to a boil while stirring. This is where all the flavors come together beautifully.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps develop the sauce and brings out the flavors.
- Add the baby spinach to the pan and cook, stirring gently, until the spinach begins to wilt, about 2-3 minutes. Fresh spinach adds not only color but also a nutritious boost!
- Serve the chicken and spinach mixture over long grain rice cooked in chicken broth for added flavor. This will elevate your dish even more!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Chicken and Spinach
This Chicken and Spinach Skillet Delight is versatile! For a heartier meal, consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. You can also serve this dish with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a twist, try it over quinoa or pasta! Don’t forget, you can garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese for extra flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken and Spinach
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen spinach works well! Just be sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the skillet.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
Can I meal prep this dish?
Absolutely! This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist.
Enjoy this flavorful and nutritious chicken and spinach dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
Chicken and Spinach Skillet Delight
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 large boneless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 0.25 cup water
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
- 0.5 teaspoon pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup baby spinach, packed tight
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a sauté pan over medium to high heat.
- Add the chicken strips to the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned, about 10 minutes.
- Stir in the diced onion and cook until the onion is soft, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the undrained diced tomatoes, water, and all the seasonings (basil, oregano, pepper, salt, and garlic powder) to the pan. Bring the mixture to a boil while stirring.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Add the baby spinach to the pan and cook, stirring gently, until the spinach begins to wilt, about 2-3 minutes.
- Serve the chicken and spinach mixture over long grain rice cooked in chicken broth for added flavor.