Lemon Parmesan Spinach Chicken (Printable version)
Juicy chicken breasts nestled in a creamy spinach sauce with fresh lemon and Parmesan.
# What you need:
→ Proteins
01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
→ Vegetables
02 - 3 cups fresh baby spinach
03 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
→ Dairy & Cheese
04 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
05 - 1/3 cup heavy cream
06 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
→ Pantry & Seasonings
07 - 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
08 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
09 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
10 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
11 - 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
# How To:
01 - Position the oven rack in the center and preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
02 - Pat the chicken breasts thoroughly dry with paper towels. Evenly season both sides with the salt, black pepper, and dried Italian herbs.
03 - Heat the olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2 to 3 minutes per side until a golden-brown crust forms (they will finish cooking in the oven). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
04 - Reduce the stovetop heat to medium. Melt the butter in the same skillet. Add the minced garlic and cook for approximately 30 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant.
05 - Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and sauté, tossing gently, until the leaves are just wilted. This should take about 2 minutes.
06 - Pour the heavy cream, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest into the skillet with the spinach. Stir the mixture well and allow it to come to a brief simmer.
07 - Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet. Continue to stir until the cheese has completely melted and the sauce thickens slightly.
08 - Nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning the spinach and cream sauce over the top. Transfer the entire skillet into the preheated oven. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
09 - Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven. Serve the chicken and spinach hot, garnished with extra lemon zest or shaved Parmesan if desired.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The creamy sauce comes together in minutes but tastes like it simmered for hours.
- It manages to feel decadent enough for a dinner party while remaining perfectly low carb.
02 -
- Always use a skillet that can safely transfer from stovetop to oven.
- Pulling the chicken out when it sears is crucial so it does not overcook in the oven.
03 -
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to keep the juices inside.
- Grate the cheese yourself for the smoothest sauce texture.