Description
This Creamy Parmesan Spinach Rice with Spicy Garlic Chicken is a comforting dish that’s bursting with flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
- 1 cup arborio rice
- 3 cups chicken broth, warm
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional)
Instructions
- Start by slicing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into cutlets or strips. In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, chili flakes, salt, pepper, and dried parsley. Mix until well blended, then coat the chicken pieces thoroughly in this savory mixture. Let it marinate for at least 20–30 minutes.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and sear for about 3–4 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest.
- In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add a tablespoon of butter. Toast the arborio rice in the melted butter for about 1–2 minutes until slightly translucent.
- Gradually pour in warm chicken broth, about half a cup at a time, stirring constantly for about 15–18 minutes until the rice is al dente and creamy.
- When the rice is nearly cooked, stir in the chopped spinach and mix in the grated Parmesan cheese and heavy cream if desired. Stir well until everything is evenly combined and creamy.
- Plate your meal by serving the creamy Parmesan spinach rice topped with the spicy garlic chicken. Garnish with extra parsley and chili flakes if desired.
Notes
This dish is best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 580 kcal
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Protein: 35 g