Smoked Paprika Chicken with Creamed Spinach

Welcome to our easy, yet incredibly flavorful Smoked Paprika Chicken with Creamed Spinach recipe! This dish combines tender chicken breasts coated in aromatic smoked paprika with a rich and creamy spinach sauce that will make your taste buds dance. Not only is this recipe quick and simple to prepare, it’s a surefire way to impress your family and friends. Whether you are a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, this classic smoked paprika chicken paired with homemade creamed spinach is a culinary delight you won’t soon forget.

Why You’ll Love This Smoked Paprika Chicken with Creamed Spinach

• Easy Smoked Paprika Chicken for Beginners: Simple and straightforward, this recipe is perfect for those new to cooking.
• Best Way to Make Smoked Paprika Chicken at Home: Ready in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a quick weekend meal.
• Flavor-packed & Nutritious: Combines the smoky depth of paprika with nutritious spinach, providing a balanced and delicious meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Prepare ahead of time and enjoy later for a quick lunch or dinner.
• Versatile: Delicious enough to serve at a dinner party, yet easy enough for a family meal.
  
  

  Ingredients for Smoked Paprika Chicken with Creamed Spinach

   

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  
  • Alternative: Swap for thigh fillets for a juicier cut.
• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
  
  • Essential ingredients for adding a smoky depth to your chicken.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
  
  • For a healthier option, use coconut or avocado oil.
• 3 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
  
  • For a lighter version, use half-and-half or low-fat milk.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  
  • Optional substitutes: Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
    
    

    How to Make Smoked Paprika Chicken with Creamed Spinach – Step by Step

     

    Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

    1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
    2. In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, ensuring an even blend.
    3. Rub this spice blend generously over each chicken breast for uniform coverage.
       
       

       Step 2: Sear the Chicken

    4. Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
    5. Sear the chicken breasts in the skillet for 5-6 minutes on each side, until a golden crust forms.
    6. Transfer the seared chicken to a plate and set aside.
       
       

       Step 3: Prepare the Creamed Spinach

       How to Prepare the Sauce

    7. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until aromatic.
    8. Add spinach, cooking until wilted (approximately 2-3 minutes).
    9. Pour in heavy cream, stirring thoroughly to ensure even heating.
    10. Add grated Parmesan, mixing until the cheese melts, and the sauce becomes creamy.
        
        

        Step 4: Assemble and Bake

        Assembling the Layers

    11. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon the creamed spinach sauce over each piece.
    12. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
        
        

        Step 5: Serve

    13. Serve your smoked paprika chicken hot, with the creamed spinach sauce lavishly spooned over the top.
        

        

        
        

        Pro Tips for Making the Best Smoked Paprika Chicken with Creamed Spinach

         

• Can I make smoked paprika chicken ahead of time? Yes! Prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. When ready, bake in a preheated oven before serving.
• What is the secret to the best smoked paprika chicken? The key is using high-quality smoked paprika for an intense, rich flavor and searing the chicken to lock in its juices.
• Cooking Hack: For extra crispy chicken, pan-sear until a deep golden brown before transferring to the oven.
• Variation: Add a pinch of nutmeg or white pepper to the creamed spinach for an extra flavor kick.
  
  

  Best Ways to Serve Smoked Paprika Chicken with Creamed Spinach

  
  The best way to serve smoked paprika chicken is with a side of…
  
  

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, they complement the dish perfectly.
• Rice Pilaf: Light and fluffy, rice pilaf absorbs the rich spinach sauce wonderfully.
• Garlic Bread: Freshly baked garlic bread enhances the meal and is perfect for scooping up the creamed spinach.
  
  Pair this dish with our [Delicious Homemade Garlic Knots] or try our [Savory Garlic Mashed Potatoes] for the complete experience.
  
  

  Nutritional Information for Smoked Paprika Chicken with Creamed Spinach

   

• Calories: 480 kcal per serving
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Protein: 42g
• Fat: 30g
  
  • For a low-carb meal, this is an excellent choice!
    
    

    Storage & Leftovers

     

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze smoked paprika chicken for up to 2 months. Ensure the chicken is cooled completely before freezing in a suitable container.
• Reheating Method: Reheat leftovers in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through or microwave on medium power for evenly warmed chicken.
  
  

  4 FAQs for Smoked Paprika Chicken with Creamed Spinach

  
  Can I freeze smoked paprika chicken?
  Yes, freeze the cooked chicken and sauce separately to maintain texture and flavor.
  
  What can I use instead of heavy cream in smoked paprika chicken?
  Substitute with half-and-half or a mix of milk and Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce.
  
  Does smoked paprika chicken require marination?
  While marination isn’t necessary, letting the chicken sit with the spices for 15-20 minutes can enhance flavor.
  
  Can I use non-dairy cream for the sauce?
  Absolutely! Opt for coconut milk or almond milk for a dairy-free version.
  
  

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