Imagine a sizzling skillet of golden-brown chicken, infused with bright lemon zest and nestled among tender, vibrant spinach - a meal that looks like it came straight from a gourmet restaurant, but can be prepared in your own kitchen in less time than it takes to order takeout! This Skillet Lemon Chicken with Spinach is not just a recipe; it's a culinary adventure that transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have your family begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 cloves of minced garlic, the juice of 1 lemon, 4 cups of fresh spinach, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to ensure even cooking and allows the seasoning to adhere better.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken as it cooks.
- In a large skillet, heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to heat until it shimmers but does not smoke.
- Carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on one side without moving them, until they develop a golden-brown crust.
- Flip the chicken breasts over and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 6-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and place it on a plate to rest. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender chicken.
- In the same skillet, add the fresh spinach. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is wilted and tender.
- While the spinach cooks, squeeze the juice of 1 lemon over the spinach and stir to combine. This adds a fresh, zesty flavor to the dish.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it among the spinach. Allow everything to heat through for an additional minute.
- Serve the skillet lemon chicken with spinach on plates, drizzling any remaining juices from the skillet over the top for added flavor.
- Enjoy your delicious Skillet Lemon Chicken with Spinach, a quick and healthy Italian-inspired dish!
Tips
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy, golden-brown exterior
- Use a meat thermometer to check that chicken reaches 165°F for perfect doneness
- Let the chicken rest after cooking to keep it juicy and tender
- Don't rush the searing process - allow each side to develop a beautiful golden crust
- Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest, most vibrant flavor
- Choose fresh spinach for the best texture and nutritional value
- Use a cast-iron skillet if possible for even heat distribution and better browning
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 105mg
