Sautéed Garlic Chicken with Spinach

Name: Sautéed Garlic Chicken with Spinach
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 4 cups fresh spinach; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Home Comfort Recipes

I absolutely love making Sautéed Garlic Chicken with Spinach; it’s one of those meals that feels both nutritious and indulgent. The garlic brings a bold flavor that transforms simple chicken into a gourmet experience, while the fresh spinach adds a vibrant touch to the dish. I can whip this up in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or when I have guests over. The best part is seeing my family enjoy a hearty meal that’s just as delicious as it is wholesome.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-05T18:05:27.503Z

When I first tried Sautéed Garlic Chicken with Spinach, I was amazed by how quickly it came together and how satisfying it was. The layers of flavor from the garlic and spinach really complemented the chicken, making it a go-to meal in my home. I always use fresh spinach when I can, as it adds a burst of color and nutrients that frozen options just can’t match.

One tip I've discovered is to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps keep it juicy and tender. Also, don’t be shy with the garlic; it truly makes this dish shine. Pair it with quinoa or rice for a complete meal that's both filling and delicious!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Savory garlic aroma that fills the kitchen
Fresh spinach adds an earthy flavor and nutrition
Quick and easy preparation perfect for busy weeknights

Perfecting Your Chicken

When seasoning the chicken breasts, make sure to use a generous amount of salt and pepper, as this enhances the overall flavor of the dish. I recommend patting the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning to ensure a good sear. This helps to lock in moisture and create a lovely golden crust as it cooks. In addition, let your chicken sit for about 10-15 minutes after seasoning to allow the flavors to penetrate and the meat to reach room temperature for more even cooking.

Cooking the chicken to perfection is crucial for a juicy outcome. Using a digital meat thermometer can help; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). When sautéing, keep an eye on the chicken, allowing it to develop a nice browned exterior. If you notice any sticking, gently loosen the chicken with a spatula; it should release easily when the crust forms properly.

Sautéing Spinach with Garlic

Sautéing the spinach right after cooking the chicken allows for a seamless transition of flavors and saves on cleaning up extra pans. Keep your heat at medium to medium-high, and watch the spinach closely as it wilts. It should take around 2-3 minutes to cook down; you want it to become bright green and tender without becoming mushy. Overcooking can lead to a less appealing texture, so prompt removal from heat is essential to keep your dish vibrant and fresh.

The garlic should be cooked just until fragrant, usually within one minute. Avoid letting it burn, as burned garlic can turn bitter, negatively affecting the overall taste of the dish. If cooking on a crowded skillet, consider using a separate smaller pan to sauté the garlic if you're worried about it burning while also managing the spinach.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

To serve, plate the chicken on a bed of the wilted spinach, drizzling any extra garlic-infused oil over the top. For a burst of color and flavor, I like to garnish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a few crushed red pepper flakes for added heat. This not only enhances the dish but makes it visually appealing. Pair it with a side of quinoa or a light salad for a complete meal.

If you want to prep this dish in advance, cook the chicken and vegetables separately. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. This meal can also be frozen, but I recommend cooking the spinach fresh when you defrost it to preserve its texture and nutrients.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delightful dish:

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 cups fresh spinach
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Juice of 1 lemon

Make sure to measure all your ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother experience.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Sautéed Garlic Chicken with Spinach:

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides.

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Cook the Garlic

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Add Spinach

Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Return the chicken to the skillet, squeeze lemon juice over the top, and toss to coat. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through.

Serve

Plate the chicken with spinach and garlic. Enjoy hot!

Pair this dish with your favorite side for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

Always taste and adjust seasoning as you cook
every chicken breast is slightly different and may require more or less seasoning.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to vary the flavor profile, consider substituting the chicken with turkey cutlets or shrimp, adjusting cooking times as necessary. Turkey cutlets will take about 6-8 minutes per side while shrimp will only need about 2-3 minutes per side to cook through. Each alternative offers a delightful twist to the original recipe while maintaining the essence of sautéed garlic and spinach.

For a dairy-free option, simply omit the Parmesan garnish; in its place, you could sprinkle some nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. If you don't have fresh spinach on hand, kale or Swiss chard can serve as hearty alternatives—just remember that they may require a slightly longer cooking time before they wilt.

Make-Ahead Tips

This dish can be prepped ahead for a quicker dinner during busy weekdays. Season your chicken breasts and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. This allows the flavors of the seasoning to really seep into the meat, making it even more flavorful once it hits the skillet.

If you're short on time on the day you plan to make this dish, consider chopping the garlic and measuring out the spinach in advance. Additionally, you can squeeze the lemon juice ahead and store it in a small container. When you’re ready to cook, everything will be ready to go, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal in just 30 minutes without the stress.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chicken is cooking too quickly on the outside but remains undercooked inside, reduce the heat slightly and extend the cooking time, flipping the chicken more frequently to ensure even cooking throughout. Maintaining a medium-high heat is crucial for a proper sear without burning the outside.

In case your spinach releases too much water while cooking, you may want to consider using a colander to drain it off immediately after washing. Excess moisture can dilute the robust garlic flavor. A quick sauté over a few extra minutes might also help eliminate additional liquid, keeping the dish flavorful and not soupy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This chicken pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the chicken and garlic, then cook them just before serving.

→ How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?

Ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).