Spinach Artichoke Chicken Skillet

Introduction

The Spinach Artichoke Chicken Skillet is a delicious and nutritious dish that fits perfectly into a variety of dietary lifestyles, including Paleo, Whole30, and Keto. This recipe combines tender chicken with the rich flavors of spinach and artichokes, all simmered in a creamy sauce that is both satisfying and healthy. It’s an easy one-pan meal that is sure to become a favorite in your household!

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Chicken breast: 1 pound, cut into bite-sized pieces
– Fresh spinach: 5 ounces
– Canned artichokes: 1 can (14 ounces), drained and chopped
– Coconut milk: 1 cup
– Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
– Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
– Nutritional yeast: 2 tablespoons (optional for a cheesy flavor)
– Salt and pepper: to taste
– Fresh parsley: for garnish, chopped (optional)

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Serves 4 people

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

Begin by prepping your ingredients. Clean and chop the spinach and artichokes. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.

Step 2: Cooking the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through. This should take about 6-8 minutes, depending on the size of the pieces. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Sautéing Vegetables

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if necessary. Add the chopped artichokes and sauté for about 2 minutes. Then, add the spinach and cook until wilted, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Combining Ingredients

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir well to combine.

Step 5: Adding Creamy Elements

Add coconut milk and any additional seasonings you prefer. Stir everything together until the mixture is heated through and creamy.

Step 6: Final Touches

Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if needed. Let it simmer for another minute or so to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve hot.

Notes

Note 1: Cooking Oil Options

You can use avocado oil or ghee instead of olive oil for different flavor profiles.

Note 2: Dairy-Free Option

This recipe is inherently dairy-free; ensure to use compliant coconut milk for Paleo, Whole30, or Keto diets.

Note 3: Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein source as desired.

Note 4: Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs well with cauliflower rice or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Cook techniques

Sautéing

Sautéing involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of oil or fat over medium to high heat. This technique is excellent for enhancing the flavors of ingredients such as onions, garlic, and spinach.

Simmering

Simmering is a gentle cooking method where food is cooked in liquid at low heat, just below boiling. This technique is ideal for allowing flavors to meld together without overcooking the ingredients.

Deglazing

Deglazing is the process of adding liquid to a pan to loosen and dissolve the browned bits of food stuck to the bottom. This adds depth of flavor to the dish and helps create a richer sauce.

Stirring

Stirring involves continuously moving ingredients around in the pan. This is crucial when cooking dishes to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking, especially for ingredients like chicken and leafy greens.

FAQ

Can I use frozen spinach in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before adding it to the skillet.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish can be stored in the fridge for several days and reheats well, making it a great option for meal prep.

Can I substitute chicken with another protein?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with other proteins such as shrimp or tofu, depending on your dietary preferences.

What can I serve with this dish?

This skillet dish pairs well with cauliflower rice, a side salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How can I make it spicier?

To add heat to the dish, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking.

Conclusion

This Spinach Artichoke Chicken Skillet is a delicious and nutritious option that fits perfectly within Paleo, Whole30, and Keto diets. With wholesome ingredients and a simple preparation, it’s an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and healthy. Embrace the vibrant flavors of spinach and artichokes combined with tender chicken for a meal that nourishes the body and pleases the palate.

More recipes suggestions and combination

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