is a delightful and flavorful dish that combines the tender richness of chicken with the earthy sweetness of mushrooms and the vibrant freshness of spinach. This recipe is deeply rooted in Mediterranean cuisine, where the simplicity of ingredients allows each component to shine while blending together in harmony. The dish is perfect for a cozy evening meal or a special occasion, as it offers a balance of comfort and elegance. The use of garlic and herbs adds depth, while the white wine and chicken stock create a rich, velvety sauce that ties everything together.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs
- 1 lb Baby Bella Mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups Fresh Baby Spinach
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 tsp Dried Thyme
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- Salt and Pepper, to taste
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup Dry White Wine
- 1/2 cup Chicken Stock
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Set aside.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear until golden brown on both sides, about 3-5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Mushrooms: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are browned and tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Herbs: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Sprinkle dried thyme over the mushrooms.
- Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the white wine and chicken stock, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release all the browned bits. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it reduces by half, about 3-5 minutes.
- Return Chicken and Add Spinach: Add the chicken back to the skillet and pour in any accumulated juices. Add the fresh spinach on top, cover the skillet with a lid, and cook until the spinach wilts, about 2-3 minutes.
- Finish with Butter and Cheese: Stir in the butter until melted. If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the dish and serve hot.
Top Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and mushrooms make a big difference in flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- Deglaze Properly: Scrape the bottom of the pan thoroughly to get all the flavorful brown bits.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning as you go, especially after adding the wine and stock.
- Serve with Bread: Serve with crusty bread to mop up the delicious sauce.
- Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a unique twist.
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic for a spicy kick.
- Greek-Inspired: Use feta cheese instead of Parmesan and add a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Creamy Version: Stir in some heavy cream or Greek yogurt towards the end for a richer sauce.
- Italian-Style: Add some chopped sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
- Vegan Option: Replace chicken with portobello mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
Nutritional Guide
Servings | Calories | Fat (g) | Carbohydrates (g) | Protein (g) |
---|---|---|---|---|
4 | 420 | 24 | 10 | 35 |
Additional Nutritional Notes: This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates and high in protein, making it suitable for a balanced diet. The use of olive oil and butter adds healthy fats, while spinach provides essential vitamins and minerals. Mushrooms contribute fiber and antioxidants, enhancing the overall nutritional value of the meal.
