Welcome to a delicious journey where creamy textures and vibrant flavors come together in a delightful dish! Today, I’m excited to share with you a recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your household: Creamy Chicken Feta Spinach Delight. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this dish offers a perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.
Introduction
Creamy Chicken Feta Spinach Delight is a versatile dish that combines the richness of chicken and feta cheese with the freshness of spinach and tomatoes. Inspired by Mediterranean flavors, this recipe not only tantalizes the taste buds but also brings a nutritious and satisfying meal to the table. The creamy sauce, enhanced by the tangy notes of feta, wraps around each piece of chicken and pasta, making every bite a delightful experience.
This dish holds a special place in my heart because it’s one of those go-to recipes that never fail to impress, whether for a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends. The combination of ingredients is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a balanced meal that you can feel good about serving.
Ingredients
To prepare this comforting Creamy Chicken Feta Spinach Delight, you’ll need:
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/3 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 (10.5 ounce) container little tomatoes (grape, cherry, etc.), cut into halves
- 1.5 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach
- 3.5 ounces feta (cubed and packed in oil and herbs)
- Red pepper flakes to taste (optional)
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese to taste (optional)
Feel free to customize this recipe according to your dietary preferences. For example, you can use whole wheat pasta for added fiber or substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian version. Additionally, if you’re sensitive to dairy, consider using a dairy-free feta alternative to maintain the creamy texture while accommodating your needs.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Feta Spinach Delight
Follow these steps to create your own delicious Creamy Chicken Feta Spinach Delight:
- Cook the Pasta: Boil a large, salted pot of water for the pasta and cook it al dente according to package directions. This ensures the pasta retains a slight firmness, which is perfect for absorbing the creamy sauce.
- Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, prep your chicken. Add it to a skillet, along with the olive oil, dried oregano, and garlic powder. Cook over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring often. The chicken should be close to cooked through at this point. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
- Create the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the chicken broth, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Stir until the mustard has dissolved completely. Let the mixture simmer for about a minute to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Add the Tomatoes: Toss in the halved tomatoes and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The tomatoes should begin to break down, creating a rich and flavorful sauce base.
- Combine the Ingredients: Add the cooked chicken back into the pan. Allow it to heat through, ensuring it’s fully cooked without overcooking it. Then, stir in the spinach and feta. Let the spinach wilt slightly and the feta begin to melt, creating a creamy, tangy sauce.
- Toss with Pasta: Finally, combine the sauce with the cooked pasta. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Serve immediately, garnished with red pepper flakes for a bit of heat and freshly grated parmesan if desired.
Helpful Tips
- Cooking the Chicken: Ensure that the chicken is cooked until it’s just done to avoid dryness. The chicken will finish cooking in the sauce, which will also help it absorb more flavor.
- Balancing Flavors: If you find the sauce too tangy due to the feta and lemon juice, a splash of cream or a sprinkle of sugar can help balance the flavors.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add more vegetables, like mushrooms or bell peppers, to enhance the dish’s nutritional profile and add extra texture.
Cooking Tips
For the best results with your Creamy Chicken Feta Spinach Delight:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and tomatoes provide the best flavor and texture for this dish. If using frozen spinach, be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess water diluting the sauce.
- Feta Cheese Selection: Opt for high-quality feta cheese packed in brine, as it tends to be creamier and more flavorful than pre-crumbled versions. The brine helps preserve the feta’s moisture and tangy flavor, which enhances the dish.
- Equipment: A good quality non-stick skillet will make cooking and cleanup easier, especially when preparing the sauce. A sharp knife is also essential for efficiently prepping the chicken and vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Creamy Chicken Feta Spinach Delight pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes and beverages:
- Side Dishes: Serve this dish alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to complement the creamy pasta. Garlic bread or crusty baguette slices are also great for soaking up the extra sauce.
- Beverage Pairings: A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, pairs well with the tangy feta and fresh tomatoes. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a splash of lemon enhances the dish’s flavors without overwhelming them.
- Presentation Tips: For an elegant touch, serve the pasta in shallow bowls and garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley. This not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh aroma that enhances the dining experience.
Nutritional Information
This recipe is not only delicious but also provides a balanced mix of macronutrients. Each serving is packed with protein, healthy fats, and a good dose of vitamins and minerals from the spinach and tomatoes.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 425 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 720mg
- Potassium: 600mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 4g
- Vitamin A: 35% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin C: 25% of the DV
- Calcium: 15% of the DV
- Iron: 10% of the DV
This Creamy Chicken Feta Spinach Delight is a nutritious option for a satisfying meal, providing essential nutrients like protein and fiber, while also being relatively low in calories. The spinach and tomatoes contribute to your daily intake of vitamins A and C, which are important for immune function and skin health.
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making the dish even more delicious the next day.
Reheat: When reheating, do so gently over low heat to prevent the sauce from breaking. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce as it reheats.
If you have extra Creamy Chicken Feta Spinach Delight, consider using it as a filling for a wrap or serving it over a bed of greens for a hearty salad. The versatility of this dish makes it a great option for meal prep.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute feta with goat cheese or ricotta for a different flavor profile. However, keep in mind that the overall taste and texture of the dish will change slightly.
What type of pasta works best with this recipe?
Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni are ideal as they hold the sauce well. However, feel free to use whatever pasta you have on hand.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version that’s just as delicious. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or eggplant to increase the heartiness of the dish.
Related Recipes
If you loved this Creamy Chicken Feta Spinach Delight, you might also enjoy these recipes:
-
Crispy Baked Chicken Taquitos With A Spicy Kick
-
Savory Garlic Butter Chicken With Fresh Zucchini And Sweet Corn
These recipes are equally delightful and offer a variety of flavors that you’ll surely appreciate.
Conclusion
I hope you’re inspired to try this Creamy Chicken Feta Spinach Delight and make it your own. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a truly special dish that’s both comforting and nutritious. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the ingredients and make this recipe a staple in your meal rotation.
If you do try this recipe, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts or any tweaks you made in the comments below. Happy cooking!
Print
Creamy Chicken Feta Spinach Delight
Description
Welcome to a delicious journey where creamy textures and vibrant flavors come together in a delightful dish! Today, I’m excited to share with you a recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your household: Creamy Chicken Feta Spinach Delight. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this dish offers a perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/3 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 (10.5 ounce) container little tomatoes (grape, cherry, etc.), cut into halves
- 1.5 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach
- 3.5 ounces feta (cubed and packed in oil and herbs)
- Red pepper flakes to taste (optional)
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese to taste (optional)
Feel free to customize this recipe according to your dietary preferences. For example, you can use whole wheat pasta for added fiber or substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian version. Additionally, if you’re sensitive to dairy, consider using a dairy-free feta alternative to maintain the creamy texture while accommodating your needs.
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil a large, salted pot of water for the pasta and cook it al dente according to package directions. This ensures the pasta retains a slight firmness, which is perfect for absorbing the creamy sauce.
- Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, prep your chicken. Add it to a skillet, along with the olive oil, dried oregano, and garlic powder. Cook over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring often. The chicken should be close to cooked through at this point. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
- Create the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the chicken broth, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Stir until the mustard has dissolved completely. Let the mixture simmer for about a minute to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Add the Tomatoes: Toss in the halved tomatoes and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The tomatoes should begin to break down, creating a rich and flavorful sauce base.
- Combine the Ingredients: Add the cooked chicken back into the pan. Allow it to heat through, ensuring it’s fully cooked without overcooking it. Then, stir in the spinach and feta. Let the spinach wilt slightly and the feta begin to melt, creating a creamy, tangy sauce.
- Toss with Pasta: Finally, combine the sauce with the cooked pasta. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Serve immediately, garnished with red pepper flakes for a bit of heat and freshly grated parmesan if desired.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
Buy Now →
Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
Buy Now →Notes
- Cooking the Chicken: Ensure that the chicken is cooked until it’s just done to avoid dryness. The chicken will finish cooking in the sauce, which will also help it absorb more flavor.
- Balancing Flavors: If you find the sauce too tangy due to the feta and lemon juice, a splash of cream or a sprinkle of sugar can help balance the flavors.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add more vegetables, like mushrooms or bell peppers, to enhance the dish’s nutritional profile and add extra texture.
