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Rich Spinach Artichoke Chicken Dinner Recipe

spinach artichoke chicken dinner - featured image

A creamy, flavorful chicken dinner inspired by spinach artichoke dip, combining tender chicken breasts with a rich spinach and artichoke sauce. Perfect for quick weeknight meals or casual dinner parties.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz / 170 g each), pounded slightly for even cooking
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped (can substitute with thawed and drained frozen spinach)
  • 1 cup artichoke hearts, chopped (canned or jarred)
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup sour cream (120 ml), or Greek yogurt as a substitute
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes, optional pinch
  • Optional: fresh lemon juice, chopped sun-dried tomatoes

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and pound to an even thickness of about ¾ inch (2 cm). Season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and sear for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C). Remove chicken and set aside.
  3. Reduce heat to medium in the same skillet and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add chopped spinach and cook, stirring occasionally, until wilted (about 3 minutes). If using frozen spinach, ensure it is well-drained before adding.
  5. Stir in chopped artichoke hearts, softened cream cheese, sour cream, and half the Parmesan cheese. Mix well until creamy and combined. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  6. Nestle the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet with the creamy spinach artichoke sauce. Spoon sauce over each breast.
  7. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and remaining Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
  8. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes until cheese melts and heated through. Alternatively, transfer to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes for a bubbly, golden top.
  9. Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken and flavors to meld.

Notes

If sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen. If too watery, cook uncovered longer to reduce. Use room temperature cream cheese for smooth blending. Cover while melting cheese to trap heat and prevent drying. For frozen spinach, thaw and squeeze out excess water to avoid watery sauce. Chicken thighs can be used but may require longer cooking time.

Nutrition

Keywords: spinach artichoke chicken, creamy chicken recipe, easy dinner, weeknight meal, comfort food, chicken breast recipe, low-carb dinner