Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Spinach Recipe

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There is nothing quite as comforting and indulgent as my all-time favorite Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Spinach. This dish perfectly balances rich, buttery garlic sauce with tender, juicy chicken thighs and vibrant spinach, creating a symphony of flavors that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or craving a meal that impresses with minimal effort, this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Spinach will quickly become one of your beloved staples. It’s creamy, garlicky, and packed with wholesome goodness that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Spinach, you only need a handful of simple yet essential ingredients. Each one brings something unique to the dish, whether it’s flavor, texture, or color, ensuring every bite bursts with deliciousness.

• Chicken thighs, boneless and skinless: They remain juicy and tender, making the perfect base for our creamy sauce.
• Salt and black pepper: Basic but critical to draw out the chicken’s natural flavors.
• Olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity note and helps sear the chicken beautifully.
• Butter: Creates the rich, luscious foundation for the sauce.
• Yellow onion, finely chopped: Adds a sweet aroma that deepens the flavor profile.
• Garlic, minced: The unmistakable star, infusing the dish with its unmistakable warmth.
• Chicken broth: Provides a savory depth and keeps the sauce light yet flavorful.
• Crispy bacon, diced: Brings a smoky crunch and extra umami that makes this dish special.
• Heavy cream: The secret to that dreamy, velvety sauce texture.
• Milk: Lightens the cream just enough while maintaining richness.
• Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix that brightens the overall taste with herbaceous notes.
• Oregano: Adds earthiness to complement the garlic and herbs.
• Crushed chili pepper flakes: Just a pinch to add a gentle kick and depth.
• Baby spinach leaves: Provides vibrant color and tender, leafy goodness to the dish.
• Parmesan cheese, grated: Melts into the sauce, giving it a sharp, cheesy finish.
• Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce to the perfect consistency.
• Water: Used to dissolve the cornstarch evenly for a smooth sauce.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Spinach

Step 1: Season the chicken

Start by generously seasoning the chicken thighs on both sides with salt and black pepper. This seasoning lays the foundation by enhancing the natural flavor of the meat before cooking.

Step 2: Sear the chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then carefully place the chicken thighs in the pan. Let them sear undisturbed for about 5 to 8 minutes on each side until they develop a golden crust and are cooked through. Once perfectly seared, remove the chicken and set it aside to rest.

Step 3: Sauté onions and garlic

In the same skillet, add butter, followed by finely chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook this mixture for about a minute or until the onions turn translucent and fragrant—this step infuses the base of your sauce with aromatic sweetness and deep garlic flavor.

Step 4: Add broth and bacon

Pour in the chicken broth, then reduce the heat to low to let it gently simmer. Toss in the crispy diced bacon, allowing it to mingle with the broth and infuse smoky, savory goodness throughout the sauce.

Step 5: Stir in cream and milk

Next, pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring everything together to combine. This blend creates the signature creamy texture and richness you crave in Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Spinach.

Step 6: Spice it up

Add Italian seasoning, oregano, crushed chili pepper flakes, along with additional salt and pepper to taste. These spices bring layers of flavor and a gentle warmth that heightens the entire dish.

Step 7: Wilt the spinach

Stir in the fresh baby spinach leaves and let them cook for a few minutes until wilted. The vibrant green not only brightens the dish visually but adds a lovely freshness and slight earthiness to balance the creaminess.

Step 8: Finish with Parmesan and thicken the sauce

Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet and mix well, letting it melt seamlessly into the sauce. Then, in a small bowl, combine cornstarch with water to create a slurry, and stir it into the sauce. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. Finally, nestle the chicken thighs back into the skillet and allow everything to simmer together so the chicken basks in that luscious sauce.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Spinach

Garnishes

To elevate your presentation, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or extra grated Parmesan on top before serving. A light dusting of crushed red pepper flakes can also add a pop of color and mild heat to finish the dish beautifully.

Side Dishes

This creamy creation pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides—think fluffy mashed potatoes that soak up every bit of sauce, warm garlic bread for dipping, or even a simple bed of steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Roasted vegetables or lightly dressed green salads also complement the richness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a rustic yet elegant feel, serve the chicken and sauce directly from the skillet, allowing guests to help themselves. Alternatively, plate the chicken over a vibrant bed of spiralized zucchini noodles or creamy polenta for a comforting spin that’s both delicious and visually stunning.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Spinach, any leftovers should be cooled to room temperature and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days.

Freezing

If you want to save this delightful meal for later, freeze the chicken and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. This helps preserve texture and flavor. Consume within 2 months for the best quality.

Reheating

When reheating, gently warm the chicken and sauce over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between. Add a splash of milk or broth if the sauce becomes too thick.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well as a leaner alternative, though thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful when cooked in this creamy sauce.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Swap heavy cream for full-fat coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan to keep it creamy and cheesy without dairy.

How spicy is this recipe with the crushed chili flakes?

The pinch of chili flakes provides just a subtle kick that enhances the other flavors without overpowering the dish. Feel free to adjust the amount to match your preferred spice level.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients in advance, such as chopping garlic and onions or cooking the bacon. However, it’s best to assemble and cook the entire dish fresh for optimal texture and flavor.

What other greens can I use instead of spinach?

Swiss chard or kale make excellent substitutes, adding a similar earthiness and vibrant color to keep this dish nutritious and delicious.

Final Thoughts

Now that you’re armed with this irresistible recipe for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Spinach, I truly hope you give it a try soon. Warm, comforting, and bursting with flavor, it’s one of those dishes you’ll want to make again and again. Serve it up for yourself, family, or friends, and watch how quickly it becomes a beloved favorite in your kitchen too!

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