Creamy Chicken Mushroom Spinach Skillet (Easy & Delicious)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Chicken Mushroom Spinach Skillet is a one-pan wonder packed with tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and fresh spinach in a velvety garlic cream sauce. It’s a quick, comforting meal that feels fancy without the fuss, perfect for weeknight dinners or serving guests. The flavors are rich yet balanced, and it pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken breasts or thighs
olive oil
salt
black pepper
garlic cloves
mushrooms (cremini or button)
baby spinach
heavy cream
chicken broth
parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
onion (optional, finely chopped)
red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

directions

Season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear until golden and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove and set aside.

In the same skillet, add more oil if needed and sauté the chopped onions (if using) and garlic until fragrant.

Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown.

Pour in the chicken broth and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.

Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

Add parmesan cheese and stir until melted and sauce begins to thicken.

Toss in the spinach and cook until wilted.

Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Simmer for a few more minutes until everything is heated through.

Garnish with more parmesan and red pepper flakes if desired.

Servings and timing

Serves 4
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Use boneless chicken thighs for juicier results.
Swap spinach for kale or arugula for a different leafy green.
Add sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist.
Serve over mashed potatoes, pasta, or cauliflower rice for low-carb.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.
Not ideal for freezing due to the dairy-based sauce, which can separate upon thawing.

Creamy Chicken Mushroom Spinach Skillet (Easy & Delicious)

FAQs

Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, use coconut cream and a dairy-free cheese alternative.

What type of mushrooms work best?
Cremini or baby bella mushrooms offer great flavor, but white button mushrooms also work well.

Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding.

How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Can I add pasta directly to the skillet?
Yes, for a one-pot meal, add cooked pasta to the sauce before returning the chicken.

What if my sauce is too thick?
Add a splash of broth or milk to thin it out to your desired consistency.

Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely—try bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your broth and cheese are certified gluten-free.

Can I make this in advance?
It’s best fresh, but it holds up well for a day or two if stored properly.

Is it spicy?
Not unless you add red pepper flakes—it’s very mild by default.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Mushroom Spinach Skillet is a cozy, flavorful meal that comes together quickly and leaves minimal cleanup. With its rich sauce and hearty ingredients, it’s a go-to comfort dish that adapts to your preferences and always delivers. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this easy skillet dinner is sure to impress.

Print
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Creamy Chicken Mushroom Spinach Skillet (Easy & Delicious)

Creamy Chicken Mushroom Spinach Skillet (Easy & Delicious)

  • Author: Molly Yeh
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: American

Description

A creamy, savory, and satisfying one-skillet dish featuring tender chicken, mushrooms, and fresh spinach in a rich garlic Parmesan sauce. Perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.


Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)


Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add garlic and mushrooms. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until mushrooms are soft.
  4. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
  5. Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir in Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
  6. Simmer the sauce for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  7. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and coat with the sauce. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
  8. Serve hot with your choice of side.

Notes

  • Use baby spinach for quicker wilting and a milder flavor.
  • You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter version.
  • Add sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
  • Serve with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.