One-Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken with Spinach and Tomatoes: Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction: Why This Dish Is a Winner
One-Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken with Spinach and Tomatoes is the kind of meal that feels like a restaurant treat but comes together in your own kitchen in under 30 minutes. You get juicy, golden chicken nestled in a creamy, garlicky sauce, with bursts of sweetness from cherry tomatoes and a pop of color and nutrition from fresh spinach. It’s a comfort food classic that’s also fresh, vibrant, and surprisingly easy to make. Plus, since it all cooks in one pan, cleanup is a breeze-making it perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests without the stress2 6 1.

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Table of Contents

Ingredients: Your Shopping List

Here’s what you’ll need for four servings. Feel free to double up for a crowd!

1 lb (about 4) chicken breasts, cut into large pieces (or use chicken thighs for extra juiciness)
2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
250 g (about 1 ½ cups) cherry tomatoes, halved
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped or minced
150 g (about 5 oz or 3 cups) fresh baby spinach
200 ml (about ¾ cup plus 2 tbsp) heavy cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free)
200 ml (about ¾ cup plus 2 tbsp) chicken broth (low sodium recommended)
1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
100 g (about 1 cup) grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional: 2-3 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (for extra flavor)
Optional: Red pepper flakes, for a little heat
Optional garnish: Fresh basil, parsley, or a squeeze of lemon juice

Recommended Brands:

For cream: Any high-quality heavy cream or coconut milk (Thai Kitchen for coconut milk).
For Parmesan: Parmigiano-Reggiano or any good Italian Parmesan.
For chicken: Organic or free-range if possible for best flavor and texture.

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Preparation Steps: Getting Ready

Prep the Chicken:
- Pat chicken pieces dry with paper towels.
- Season all over with salt, pepper, and oregano (or Italian seasoning).
Chop the Veggies:
- Halve the cherry tomatoes.
- Finely chop the garlic.
- Roughly chop the spinach if leaves are large.
- Grate the Parmesan if not pre-grated.
Set Out Ingredients:
- Have your cream, broth, and any optional ingredients measured and ready.

Cooking Instructions: Step-by-Step

Sear the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken pieces in a single layer. Sear 4–5 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F/74°C).
- Remove chicken and set aside on a plate6 2.
Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes:
- In the same pan, add a splash more oil if needed.
- Add garlic and cherry tomatoes. Sauté for 2 minutes, stirring, until fragrant and tomatoes start to soften6.
Make the Creamy Sauce:
- Lower heat to medium-low.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
- Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes until it starts to thicken2 6.
- Stir in grated Parmesan until melted and the sauce is smooth.
Add Spinach and (Optional) Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
- Stir in spinach (and sun-dried tomatoes, if using).
- Cook for 2–3 minutes until spinach wilts2 6.
Combine and Finish:
- Return chicken (and any juices) to the pan, turning to coat in sauce.
- Let everything simmer together for another 2 minutes, just until heated through and flavors meld.
Taste and Adjust:
- Taste the sauce and adjust salt, pepper, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
- For extra brightness, squeeze a little lemon juice over the top before serving.

Secret Tips:

Don’t rush the searing step-golden chicken = more flavor.
Keep the heat low when adding cream to avoid curdling.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting and flavor.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve chicken and sauce hot, spooned over:
- Al dente pasta (fettuccine or penne)
- Steamed rice or cauliflower rice
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Crusty bread for dipping
Garnish with:
- Fresh basil or parsley
- Extra Parmesan
- Lemon zest or wedges for a fresh finish

Additional Tips & Tweaks

Dairy-Free: Use full-fat coconut milk instead of cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan4.
Low-Carb/Keto: Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
Vegetarian: Swap chicken for pan-seared tofu or chickpeas.
Boost Flavor: Deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine after searing the chicken for extra depth5.
Meal Prep: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to keep the sauce creamy-avoid boiling.

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Nutrition Details (Per Serving, Approximate)

Calories	Protein	Carbs	Fat	Fiber	Sodium
369 kcal	30g	10g	21g	2g	399mg

Rich in vitamin A, C, calcium, and iron thanks to spinach and tomatoes5.
Nutrition will vary based on exact ingredients and serving size.

FAQ

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely! Thighs are juicier and more forgiving-they work great in this recipe5.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, it reheats well for up to 3 days, but the sauce may thicken. Add a splash of broth or cream when reheating2.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, as written, it’s gluten-free. Just double-check your broth and Parmesan.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Freezing isn’t recommended due to the creamy sauce, which can separate when thawed2.

Q: What if I don’t have fresh spinach?
A: You can use frozen spinach-just thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding.

Q: How can I make it spicier?
A: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce or a pinch of cayenne.

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Wrap-Up & Fun Fact

This One-Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken with Spinach and Tomatoes is the ultimate weeknight hero-rich, comforting, and packed with flavor, yet light enough to enjoy year-round. It’s a dish that brings together the best of Mediterranean flavors with the creamy comfort of classic chicken recipes. Fun fact: Creamy chicken dishes like this are inspired by Tuscan and Mediterranean cooking, where simple, fresh ingredients are the stars and one-pan meals are a way of life6.

So grab your skillet and get cooking-you’re just 30 minutes away from a meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!