Oh my goodness, where do I even begin with this Chicken Artichoke Skillet? This recipe is one of those comforting dishes that feels like a warm hug, and it’s super quick to whip up on those busy weeknights (or lazy weekends when you just want something delicious without too much fuss). I remember the first time I made it; I was having a few friends over, and I didn’t want to be stuck cooking while everyone else was enjoying themselves. This dish saved the day!
The combination of tender chicken, savory artichokes, and rich, creamy sauce is simply irresistible. And can we talk about the one-pan convenience? You can impress your guests or family without the headache of a mountain of dishes afterward. Trust me, once you take your first bite of this heavenly skillet, you’ll be dreaming of the next time you can make it!
What’s in Chicken Artichoke Skillet?
Chicken Breast: The star of this dish! I always opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their lean protein content. Plus, they cook quickly and soak up all the delicious flavors in the skillet.
Artichoke Hearts: These little gems add a unique flavor that pairs beautifully with chicken. I prefer using canned or frozen artichoke hearts for convenience. Just be sure to drain the canned ones well!
Cream Cheese: This is what makes the sauce creamy and rich! I usually use regular cream cheese, but if you’re looking to lighten it up, you could also try a reduced-fat version.
Parmesan Cheese: Because who doesn’t love cheese? It adds a nutty depth to the sauce. Freshly grated is best, but the pre-grated stuff will work in a pinch.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must! It adds aromatic flavor that elevates this dish to the next level. If you’re in a pinch, minced garlic from a jar can be used too.
Spinach: This adds a pop of color and nutrition! Fresh is great, but you can totally use frozen spinach – just make sure to thaw and drain it first.
Olive Oil: Just a touch for sautéing the chicken and garlic. I love using extra virgin olive oil for that rich flavor.
Seasonings: A mix of salt, pepper, and Italian herbs (like oregano and basil) rounds off the dish perfectly. Feel free to adjust to your taste!
Is Chicken Artichoke Skillet Good for You?
Absolutely! This sumptuous skillet dish is packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the artichokes and spinach, making it both filling and nutritious.
Chicken Breast: A lean source of protein which is great for muscle repair and satiety.
Artichoke Hearts: These wonderful veggies are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, and they can help regulate blood sugar and promote heart health.
Spinach: Chock-full of vitamins A, C, and K, spinach is like a little powerhouse of nutrition! Plus, it’s great for your skin and can contribute to better bone health.
While this dish is loaded with great ingredients, it does have some creaminess from the cheese and cream cheese. If you’re watching your saturated fat intake, you might want to moderate your portion size or opt for lower-fat alternatives.
Ingredients List
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (serves 4)
– 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 4 oz cream cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen, thawed and drained)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, pepper, and Italian herbs to taste
How to Make Chicken Artichoke Skillet?
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian herbs. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
3. Add the chopped artichoke hearts and fresh spinach. Sauté until the spinach wilts down and everything is well combined.
4. Next, reduce the heat to low. Add the cream cheese and allow it to melt, stirring continuously. Once it’s melted, stir in the Parmesan cheese until everything is nicely combined.
5. Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and coat them with that luscious sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm everything through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or herbs as desired.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy the deliciousness!
Delicious Tips and Twists!
– If you love a little spice, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes for a kick.
– For a Mediterranean twist, add some black olives or sun-dried tomatoes.
– Serve it over cooked pasta, rice, or quinoa to make it a satisfying meal.
– Leftovers (if you have any!) can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days – just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
This Chicken Artichoke Skillet is a go-to recipe in my house, and I’m confident it will become a beloved favorite in yours, too! I can’t wait for you to try it and let me know how it turns out. Seriously, I want to hear all about your culinary adventures! Happy cooking!
