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Spinach Artichoke Chicken is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the rich, creamy taste of spinach and artichoke dip with tender, juicy chicken breasts. This recipe perfectly balances comfort food and elegance, making it suitable for both family dinners and special occasions. The blend of creamy cheese, vibrant spinach, and hearty artichokes creates a luscious topping that complements the chicken beautifully. Not only is this dish visually appealing with its vibrant colors, but the flavors meld together to create a mouthwatering experience that keeps everyone coming back for more. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this recipe becomes a go-to for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. In addition, it can be paired with various sides, elevating any meal. Whether you are serving it with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a hearty grain, this Spinach Artichoke Chicken is sure to impress and satisfy. Get ready to indulge in a deliciously creamy and savory dish that brings everyone to the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

There are several reasons to love Spinach Artichoke Chicken, starting with its incredible taste. The combination of creamy cheeses, tender chicken, and the distinct flavors of spinach and artichokes results in a dish that is rich and satisfying without being overly heavy. Each bite offers a delightful explosion of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.

Another reason this recipe stands out is its ease of preparation. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on the table in under an hour. This makes it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a quick yet impressive dish.

Lastly, the presentation of Spinach Artichoke Chicken is undeniably appealing. The vibrant green of the spinach and the creamy white of the cheese sauce create a beautiful contrast against the golden-brown chicken. This dish not only tastes fantastic but also looks stunning, making it a great choice for entertaining or special occasions where you want to impress your guests.

Ingredients:

To prepare Spinach Artichoke Chicken, you will need the following ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role in creating the dish’s signature flavor and texture:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds) – Choose chicken breasts that are uniform in size for even cooking. They should be fresh or thawed if previously frozen.
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped – Fresh spinach adds a burst of color and essential nutrients. If using frozen spinach, ensure it is thawed and drained well to avoid excess moisture.
1 cup canned artichoke hearts, drained and chopped – Artichoke hearts provide a unique flavor and texture. Look for those packed in water or brine, avoiding oil-packed varieties.
1 cup cream cheese, softened – Cream cheese forms the creamy base for the topping. Ensure it is at room temperature for easy mixing.
1/2 cup sour cream – Sour cream adds tanginess and creaminess to the mixture. You can substitute with Greek yogurt if desired.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Mozzarella gives a stretchy, cheesy texture. You can use a blend of mozzarella and provolone for a more robust flavor.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste.
3 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic adds depth and aroma. Adjust the amount based on your preference for garlic flavor.
1 teaspoon onion powder – Onion powder provides a subtle sweetness and enhances the savory notes.
1 teaspoon salt – Salt enhances the flavors of all the ingredients. Adjust according to taste.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Freshly ground black pepper adds a hint of heat and enhances the dish’s overall flavor profile.
2 tablespoons olive oil – Olive oil is used for cooking the chicken, providing a rich flavor while preventing sticking.
1 teaspoon paprika – Paprika adds a lovely color and a mild smokiness to the dish, making it visually appealing.

Ensure that all ingredients are prepped and measured before you begin cooking. Having everything ready to go will streamline the cooking process and ensure a smooth experience.

How To Make Spinach Artichoke Chicken?

Follow these detailed steps to create your Spinach Artichoke Chicken:

Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly.
Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika. This will enhance the chicken’s natural flavors.
Heat olive oil: In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear them for about 5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step locks in the juices and adds flavor.
Make the spinach artichoke mixture: While the chicken is searing, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, chopped spinach, chopped artichoke hearts, minced garlic, onion powder, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese in a mixing bowl. Stir until well combined and creamy.
Top the chicken: Once the chicken is seared, remove the skillet from the heat. Spread the spinach artichoke mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast, ensuring they are generously covered.
Add remaining cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the spinach artichoke topping. This will create a delicious, cheesy crust as it bakes.
Bake the dish: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The cheese should be bubbly and golden brown.
Garnish and serve: Once out of the oven, let the dish rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil if desired for an extra pop of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Spinach Artichoke Chicken!

Tips For Variations:

While the classic Spinach Artichoke Chicken recipe is fantastic on its own, there are numerous ways to customize it to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Here are some ideas for variations:

Different cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese for unique flavor profiles. Consider adding feta cheese for a tangy kick, or using cheddar for a sharper taste.
Herbs and spices: Add fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil to the spinach artichoke mixture for an added layer of flavor. You can also include spices such as cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Vegetable additions: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables into the mixture. Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes can add interesting textures and flavors. Just ensure to sauté them beforehand if they require cooking.
Chicken alternatives: For those seeking a different protein option, consider using turkey breasts or even seafood like salmon or shrimp. Adjust cooking times accordingly, as different proteins have varying cooking needs.
Make it lighter: If you want to reduce the richness, consider using low-fat cream cheese and sour cream. You can also decrease the amount of cheese used or replace some of it with additional vegetables.
Stuffed variation: For a fun twist, consider stuffing the spinach artichoke mixture inside the chicken breasts instead of topping them. Butterfly the chicken breasts, fill them with the mixture, and secure with toothpicks before cooking.
Serving style: Change up how you serve it by placing the chicken on a bed of cooked quinoa, rice, or a fresh salad. This not only makes for a more filling meal but also adds a different texture to each bite.

Serving Suggestions:

Spinach Artichoke Chicken is wonderfully versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal:

Fresh salad: Serve the chicken alongside a fresh garden salad topped with your favorite vinaigrette. The crispness of the salad contrasts beautifully with the creamy chicken, creating a well-rounded meal.
Roasted vegetables: Roasted vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, or carrots make an excellent side dish. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them until tender for a colorful and nutritious addition.
Grains: Consider serving the chicken over a bed of fluffy rice, quinoa, or couscous. This not only provides a filling component but also helps soak up the delicious cheese sauce.
Garlic bread: A side of warm garlic bread is a perfect accompaniment for this dish. The bread can be used to scoop up the cheesy topping, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Pasta: For a heartier meal, serve the chicken with a side of pasta tossed in olive oil, garlic, and herbs. This combination adds an Italian flair and complements the creamy chicken perfectly.
Wine pairing: If you enjoy wine, consider pairing your meal with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied red like Pinot Noir. The wine enhances the flavors of the dish and adds a touch of elegance.
Leftover use: If you have leftover Spinach Artichoke Chicken, shred it and use it as a filling for wraps or sandwiches. It also works wonderfully in a pasta bake or as a topping for baked potatoes.

FAQ:

Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just ensure it is fully thawed and drained well to remove excess moisture before mixing it into the topping.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the chicken for accuracy.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the spinach artichoke mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble the dish and bake it just before serving for the best results.

What can I serve with Spinach Artichoke Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with fresh salads, roasted vegetables, grains like quinoa or rice, and even garlic bread for a complete meal.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, leftovers can be frozen. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in an airtight container for up to three months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Spinach Artichoke Chicken

Spinach Artichoke Chicken is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the rich, creamy taste of spinach and artichoke dip with tender, juicy chicken breasts.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Course Main

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Equipment

Oven-safe Skillet
Mixing Bowl

Ingredients

Chicken

4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts About 1.5 pounds total.

Spinach and Artichoke Mixture

1 cup fresh spinach, chopped Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients.
1 cup canned artichoke hearts, drained and chopped Look for those packed in water or brine.
1 cup cream cheese, softened Ensure it is at room temperature for easy mixing.
1/2 cup sour cream Can substitute with Greek yogurt if desired.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Can use a blend of mozzarella and provolone.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds a salty, nutty flavor.
3 cloves garlic, minced Adjust based on preference for garlic flavor.
1 teaspoon onion powder Provides subtle sweetness.
1 teaspoon salt Adjust according to taste.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper Freshly ground adds a hint of heat.
2 tablespoons olive oil Used for cooking the chicken.
1 teaspoon paprika Adds color and mild smokiness.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, spinach, artichoke hearts, garlic, onion powder, half of the mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan. Stir until creamy.
Spread the spinach artichoke mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the topping.
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve hot.