If you're looking for a quick, tasty meal, this Creamy Tomato Spinach Chicken recipe is perfect for you. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you'll create a dish that's rich and satisfying. I’ll guide you through cooking juicy chicken, making a creamy sauce, and combining everything into a delightful dinner. Whether you're cooking for family or friends, this recipe promises to impress without taking hours. Let’s get started!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Creamy: This dish combines the richness of heavy cream with the fresh taste of tomatoes and spinach, creating a comforting and flavorful sauce.
- Quick and Easy: With a total preparation time of just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknight dinners without sacrificing taste.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and nutrients from spinach and tomatoes, this meal is both satisfying and nutritious.
- Versatile Serving Options: Whether served over rice, pasta, or with garlic bread, this dish can easily adapt to your favorite sides.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
To make Creamy Tomato Spinach Chicken, you need the following items:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Measurements and Alternatives
You can adjust the amounts to fit your taste. If you want extra sauce, add more cream or broth. For less creaminess, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. If you prefer less salt, use low-sodium chicken broth. You can swap the chicken for turkey or tofu for a different protein.
Fresh vs. Canned Ingredients
Using fresh spinach gives a great texture and flavor. However, you can use frozen spinach if fresh is not available. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well. Canned tomatoes are convenient, but fresh tomatoes can add a bright taste. If you use fresh, chop them finely before adding them to your dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. While it warms, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Once the oil is hot, place the chicken in the skillet. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Make sure the chicken is cooked through. After cooking, remove the chicken and set it aside.
Preparing the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook it for one minute. The garlic will smell great. Next, pour in the chicken broth and scrape any browned bits from the skillet's bottom. This adds flavor. Let it simmer for two minutes. After that, add the drained diced tomatoes and heavy cream. Stir until everything combines well. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Combining Ingredients
Once the sauce thickens, stir in the chopped spinach. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts. Then, return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the creamy sauce. Let it warm together for 2-3 minutes. Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Chicken's Flavor
To make your chicken taste great, season it well. Use salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Rub the spices onto the chicken before cooking. This adds a punch of flavor. Cook the chicken until it is golden brown. This gives it a nice crust and locks in the juices. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This keeps it moist and tender.
How to Achieve the Right Sauce Consistency
For a creamy sauce, use heavy cream. It thickens nicely and adds richness. After you add the cream, let the sauce simmer. This helps it thicken further. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth. If it's too thin, let it cook a bit longer. Stir the sauce often to prevent sticking. Make sure every bite has that creamy goodness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken over rice or pasta. This helps soak up the sauce. You can also add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top. For a fresh touch, serve with a side of garlic bread. It’s perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce. You can even add a salad for a crunchy side. Enjoying this dish with family makes it even better!
Pro Tips
- Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for optimal juiciness and safety.
- Enhance the Flavor: For a richer flavor, consider marinating the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Customize the Greens: You can substitute or add other leafy greens like kale or swiss chard along with spinach for more texture and flavor.
- Make it Ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance and reheated gently on the stovetop, making it perfect for meal prep.
Variations
Adding Extra Vegetables
You can make this dish even better by adding more veggies. Try bell peppers for crunch. Zucchini adds a nice texture and flavor. Mushrooms bring earthiness to the mix. You can also add broccoli or carrots for color and health benefits. Just chop them small and cook them in the skillet with the garlic.
Protein Alternatives
If you want to change up the protein, there are great options. You can use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist. Tofu is a great choice for a vegetarian version. It soaks up the sauce well. You can also use turkey or pork for a different taste. Just adjust the cooking time based on the protein you choose.
Dietary Adjustments (e.g., dairy-free, gluten-free)
Making this meal fit your diet is simple. For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. It keeps the dish rich and creamy. If you need it gluten-free, make sure to use gluten-free chicken broth. Always check labels to avoid hidden gluten. You can enjoy this meal with simple swaps while keeping it delicious.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To store your creamy tomato spinach chicken, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep the sauce and chicken together to retain moisture.
Reheating Instructions
When you are ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat them on the stove. Use low heat to warm the chicken gently. Stir the sauce to keep it creamy. You can also use a microwave. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between.
Freezing Tips
For longer storage, you can freeze this dish. Place the cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight before warming on the stove. This keeps the flavors fresh and tasty.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach in this dish. Just make sure to thaw it first. Squeeze out excess water to avoid a watery sauce. Frozen spinach works well, but fresh spinach has a better taste and texture.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Check the thickest part of the chicken with a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F (75°C). If you don't have a thermometer, cut into the chicken. It should be white inside, not pink. Properly cooked chicken is safe to eat and juicy.
What can I serve with Creamy Tomato Spinach Chicken?
You can serve this dish with many sides. Garlic bread is a favorite for dipping. Rice or pasta also pairs nicely, soaking up the creamy sauce. A fresh salad adds a nice crunch and balances the meal.
We explored the key ingredients, step-by-step cooking, and helpful tips for Creamy Tomato Spinach Chicken. Remember to choose fresh or canned ingredients wisely. Perfect the chicken's taste with our flavor tips. Don't hesitate to try different vegetables or proteins to suit your needs. Store leftovers correctly for later enjoyment. With this guide, you can create a delicious meal that fits all diets. Enjoy the cooking process, and make this dish uniquely yours!