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creamy garlic chicken and spinach rice skillet recipe

Creamy Garlic Chicken and Spinach Rice Skillet

A smiling woman in a modern kitchen, wearing a brown apron, preparing a delicious dish with fresh ingredients.Sorrel Calver
A delicious one-pan meal featuring creamy garlic chicken, spinach, and rice, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large Skillet
  • 1 Spatula

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 3 cups fresh spinach
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins

  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and brown on both sides, approximately 5 minutes each side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the rice, cover, and reduce heat to low.
  • After 15 minutes, stir in the spinach until it wilts into the rice.
  • Nestle the chicken back into the skillet, ensuring it is partially submerged in the rice.
  • Pour heavy cream over the chicken and rice mixture. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
  • Cover and cook for an additional 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.

Serving

  • Serve the dish hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Storage

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Notes

Pro Tips: Use chicken thighs for juicier results. Adjust seasoning before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions: Substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts if preferred.
How to Serve: Enjoy with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad.
Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the chicken and rice separately ahead of time and combine when ready to serve.
Keyword creamy garlic chicken, one pan chicken dinner, spinach rice