Creamy Parmesan Spinach Dish

This creamy parmesan spinach rice with spicy garlic chicken combines comfort food appeal with bold flavors. The tender chicken strips seasoned with smoky paprika and red pepper flakes perfectly complement the rich, cheesy rice studded with wilted spinach. It's a complete meal in one pan that delivers on both satisfaction and flavor.

I first created this recipe when my sister came over unexpectedly and I needed to pull together something quickly with what I had on hand. The combination was so delicious that it's now requested at nearly every family gathering.

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Adds lean protein and takes on the spicy garlic flavors beautifully
• Long grain white rice: Creates the perfect foundation with its fluffy texture
• Chicken broth: Infuses the rice with savory flavor as it cooks
• Heavy cream: Transforms the dish into a luxurious creamy delight
• Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty depth and thickens the sauce naturally
• Butter and olive oil: Creates the perfect fat combination for sautéing
• Fresh garlic: Provides aromatic punch that defines this dish
• Red pepper flakes: Brings customizable heat that wakes up your taste buds
• Smoked paprika: Adds subtle smokiness that elevates the entire dish
• Fresh spinach: Incorporates vibrant color and nutrition without overwhelming

How To Make Creamy Parmesan Spinach Rice w/ Spicy Garlic Chicken

Season and cook chicken:

Begin by thoroughly coating your chicken strips with the spice mixture. The combination of garlic powder, smoked paprika and red pepper flakes creates a flavor crust that seals in moisture. Make sure your pan is properly heated before adding the chicken to achieve that perfect golden exterior. The chicken should reach 165°F internally.

Create the aromatic base:

After removing the chicken, use the same skillet to capture all those flavorful bits left behind. The butter and minced garlic create an aromatic foundation for the rice. Be vigilant during this step as garlic can burn quickly. You want it fragrant but not browned.

Cook the rice to perfection:

Adding broth to the garlic butter creates a flavorful cooking liquid for your rice. Ensure you bring it to a proper simmer before adding rice. The covered cooking method allows the rice to steam properly. Check at the 15 minute mark by quickly lifting the lid and testing a few grains.

Create the creamy sauce:

The magic happens when you add heavy cream and parmesan. The residual heat will melt the cheese while the cream creates silky richness. Stir continuously during this phase to prevent any clumping or sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Incorporate vegetables and reunite with chicken:

Add spinach in batches if needed, allowing each addition to wilt slightly before adding more. Return the chicken to the pan and gently fold everything together. This brief final cooking ensures all components share their flavors while maintaining their distinct textures.

The smoked paprika is truly the secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered its transformative power during culinary school and now keep several varieties in my pantry. The way it enhances both the chicken and the creamy rice creates layers of flavor that make people think you spent hours in the kitchen.

Making Ahead and Storage

This dish maintains its quality remarkably well when stored properly. To refrigerate leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It will keep for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the original creamy consistency. I recommend reheating gently on the stovetop rather than microwave for the best texture maintenance.

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Perfect Substitutions

This recipe welcomes adaptations based on what you have available. For a lighter version, substitute half and half for heavy cream. Brown rice can replace white rice though you'll need to adjust cooking time accordingly. Kale or swiss chard make excellent alternatives to spinach but require slightly longer cooking time to wilt properly. Thigh meat can replace chicken breast for a more forgiving and flavorful protein option. For vegetarians, roasted mushrooms or crispy tofu can stand in for chicken.

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Serving Suggestions

While this dish stands alone as a complete meal, a few simple additions can elevate your dining experience. A bright side salad with lemon vinaigrette creates pleasant contrast to the rich main dish. Crusty garlic bread makes an excellent vehicle for capturing any remaining sauce. For entertaining, serve in shallow bowls with a sprinkle of extra parmesan and red pepper flakes for visual appeal. A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc provides the perfect beverage pairing.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of rice?

Yes, you can substitute with jasmine or basmati rice for a fragrant twist. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ How can I make this dish less spicy?

Reduce or omit the red pepper flakes to tone down the heat. You can also use sweet paprika instead of smoked paprika.

→ Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, you can add pre-cooked chicken toward the end of the recipe. Let it heat through with the rice and spinach.

→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half or a combination of milk and a bit of butter can work as a lighter alternative to heavy cream.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the chicken with mushrooms or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.