Garlic Butter Chicken with Spinach Alfredo
Why Make This Recipe
Garlic Butter Chicken with Spinach Alfredo is a delightful dish that combines flavors everyone loves. It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with protein. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or when you want to impress guests. The garlic butter chicken adds a burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with the rich Alfredo sauce and fresh spinach. Plus, it’s quick to make, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken with Spinach Alfredo
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips or chunks
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 oz fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Cooked pasta of your choice (fettuccine, linguine, or penne recommended)
Directions:
- Season the chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter and sauté the garlic for 30 seconds. Add the chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add a drizzle of oil if needed. Sauté the remaining garlic for 30 seconds, then add the spinach. Cook for 1–2 minutes until wilted.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and let it melt, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat it in the Alfredo sauce. Simmer for another 1–2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet and toss to combine. Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken with Spinach Alfredo
To serve Garlic Butter Chicken with Spinach Alfredo, place a generous portion on a plate. You can add more grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil on top for added flavor. This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. Enjoy it with garlic bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Garlic Butter Chicken with Spinach Alfredo
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over low heat until heated through. You can also add a splash of cream or milk to help loosen the sauce if it thickens too much when reheating.
Tips to Make Garlic Butter Chicken with Spinach Alfredo
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
- Use fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic according to your taste.
- For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes while cooking the chicken.
Variation
You can add other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes to the dish to enhance the flavor and nutrition. For a healthier option, consider using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even cooking.
2. Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! You can use coconut cream and a dairy-free cheese substitute to make a dairy-free version of the sauce.
3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble them when you are ready to serve. Just store the cooked chicken, sauce, and pasta separately in the fridge until needed.
