This Chicken Mushroom Spinach Skillet is a one-pan wonder! Juicy chicken, earthy mushrooms, and vibrant spinach come together for a colorful and tasty meal.
It’s super quick to make and packed with flavor. Plus, who doesn’t love a meal that doesn’t pile up the dishes? I usually serve it over rice or pasta for a filling dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs add great flavor and moisture. If you prefer, you can use boneless chicken for quicker cooking, but it may not be as juicy. Drumsticks also work well!
Mushrooms: I love using cremini mushrooms for their depth of flavor. White button mushrooms are a good substitute if cremini aren’t available. For a twist, try shiitake mushrooms for a unique taste.
Heavy Cream: Want a lighter option? Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, but be prepared for a less rich sauce. You could also use coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for melting and flavor. If you’re out, Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano can stand in. Nutritional yeast is great for a dairy-free alternative, giving a cheesy flavor.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is key for a vibrant color and texture. If you only have frozen spinach, just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding to the skillet.
How Do You Get the Chicken Skin Perfectly Crispy?
Crispy chicken skin is all about cooking technique! Here’s how you can achieve that mouthwatering texture:
- Start with a dry chicken. Pat the skin dry with paper towels before seasoning to help it crisp up nicely.
- Heat your skillet well before adding the chicken. The oil should shimmer, letting you know it’s ready.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet. If necessary, brown the chicken in batches to ensure even cooking.
- Let the chicken sear without moving it for the first few minutes. This helps create that perfect golden crust.
How to Make Chicken Mushroom Spinach Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Vegetables:
- 8 ounces cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cups fresh spinach leaves
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken Mushroom Spinach Skillet takes about 30 minutes of cooking time. It’s quick to prepare, so you can enjoy a flavorful meal without a lot of fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by generously seasoning the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. This will add great flavor to your dish!
2. Brown the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs skin-side down. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side until the skin is golden brown and the chicken is almost cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Mushrooms:
In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they release their moisture and turn golden brown.
4. Add Garlic and Onion:
Next, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic with the mushrooms. Cook them together for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
5. Deglaze the Skillet:
Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the skillet, loosening any delicious browned bits. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
6. Make the Sauce:
Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Allow the sauce to simmer and thicken slightly for about 3-5 minutes.
7. Add the Spinach:
Now, add the fresh spinach to the skillet. Stir it in until it wilts, adding a nice pop of color and freshness to your dish.
8. Combine Everything:
Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, spoon some sauce over them, reduce the heat to low, and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes to make sure the chicken is fully cooked through and the flavors blend beautifully.
9. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, give the sauce a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a lovely finish, and serve your creamy Chicken Mushroom Spinach Skillet on its own or alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs! Just reduce the cooking time since they cook faster—about 4-5 minutes per side should be sufficient for a nice sear and thorough cooking.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream to keep the sauce smooth and creamy.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut cream or a non-dairy cream substitute that’s suitable for cooking.
How to Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you love heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to your taste, or even add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick. You can also drizzle some hot sauce right before serving for a flavorful boost!
