Creamy Spinach Artichoke Chicken

Name: Creamy Spinach Artichoke Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Highlighted under: Warm & Wholesome

I absolutely love making this Creamy Spinach Artichoke Chicken for dinner. The rich combination of creamy cheese, tender chicken, and vibrant spinach and artichokes makes every bite feel special. I often prepare this dish for family gatherings or casual weeknight meals because it’s quick and packed with flavor. Plus, it's a great way to sneak in some veggies! The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with rice or pasta, making it a complete meal that's sure to impress.

Created by

Rosalie Mitchell

Last updated on 2026-02-08T07:09:36.630Z

Trying out this Creamy Spinach Artichoke Chicken was an adventure for me! I love experimenting with flavors, and combining spinach and artichokes with creamy cheese made for a divine sauce. This dish not only fulfilled my cravings for comfort food but also gave me a way to enjoy nutritious greens hidden within the creamy texture.

While making it, I learned that keeping the chicken moist is key, so I seared it briefly before adding the sauce. The result was perfectly tender chicken enveloped in a luscious layer of flavor that everyone at the table couldn't get enough of!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Decadent creamy sauce that is packed with flavor
Quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights
A delightful way to include veggies in your meal

Cooking Techniques

When searing the chicken breasts, it's crucial to allow the olive oil to reach a shimmering state before adding the chicken. This signals that the oil is hot enough, creating a beautiful golden crust. Cook the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side without moving it around too much; this will help achieve that nice, caramelized texture that adds depth to the overall flavor of the dish.

Once the chicken is seared, remember to let it rest for a few minutes after removing it from the skillet. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, which keeps it tender and moist when you serve it later. This small step can make a significant difference in the texture of your chicken.

The Creamy Sauce

The combination of cream cheese and sour cream in the sauce provides a rich, tangy base that enhances the flavors of the spinach and artichokes. Be sure to soften the cream cheese beforehand, as this will make it much easier to incorporate into the sauce. Stir it until smooth and glossy over medium heat, which typically takes about 2-3 minutes; this will prevent any lumps from forming.

When adding spinach and artichokes to the sauce, I recommend opting for fresh spinach over frozen. Fresh spinach wilts down beautifully and retains a vibrant green color, while frozen spinach can introduce excess moisture. This will keep the sauce thick and luscious without becoming watery.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Spinach Artichoke Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a heartier meal, serve it over rice or pasta, allowing the creamy sauce to coat every bite. Alternatively, for a lighter option, consider serving it alongside a simple green salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the richness of the dish.

If you're looking to elevate the dish further, try garnishing with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives right before serving. This will not only add a pop of color but bring a fresh, aromatic finish that complements the creamy flavors beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious dish:

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce

1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Make sure to prepare your ingredients ahead for a smooth cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect Creamy Spinach Artichoke Chicken:

Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the cream cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Then, mix in sour cream, Parmesan, garlic powder, and onion powder until combined. Add the chopped spinach and artichokes, mixing until heated through.

Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the creamy sauce over the top. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top and cover the skillet, allowing it to cook for another 5 minutes on low heat until the cheese melts. Serve warm with your choice of sides.

Enjoy your meal and impress your family or guests with this delightful dish!

Pro Tips

You can substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option. Additionally, adding a touch of lemon juice can enhance the flavors of the sauce.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to prepare this dish ahead of time, the creamy sauce can be made up to two days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and simply reheat it gently in a skillet before adding it to the chicken. This can streamline your dinner prep, especially for gatherings.

Additionally, you can freeze the assembled dish (before cooking) for up to three months. Just ensure that the chicken is thawed completely before baking it to avoid uneven cooking. Bake straight from the freezer, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time for the sauce to heat through.

Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to make this dish your own by experimenting with different types of cheese. For example, adding some crumbled feta can enhance the flavor profile with its tangy notes. Swap out the mozzarella for cheddar for a bolder flavor or even use a dairy-free cream cheese and sour cream for a lighter, dairy-free version.

If you're looking to add even more nutrition, consider incorporating other vegetables like sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers. These ingredients can contribute an additional layer of flavor and color to the dish, while also making your meal more vibrant and appealing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time, then combine them when you’re ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with Creamy Spinach Artichoke Chicken?

It pairs well with rice, pasta, or a fresh green salad.

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead?

Absolutely! Ensure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding to the sauce.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

With proper ingredient choices like gluten-free cream cheese and avoiding breadcrumbs, this dish can easily be made gluten-free.