Spinach Artichoke Chicken Recipe – Easy Low Carb Dinner Idea

Juicy baked chicken breasts topped with creamy spinach artichoke sauce, melted cheese, and fresh herbs served in a skillet.
Creamy, cheesy, and satisfying—spinach artichoke chicken is the ultimate low carb dinner idea.

Introduction to Spinach Artichoke Chicken

Spinach Artichoke Chicken is inspired by the beloved spinach artichoke dip—a creamy, comforting classic that’s always a crowd-pleaser. This recipe transforms those familiar flavors into a hearty main dish by pairing tender chicken cutlets with a luscious sauce of spinach, artichokes, and cheese.

The appeal lies in its balance: juicy, golden-seared chicken serves as the protein base, while the sauce delivers indulgence with creaminess, tang, and a touch of freshness. It’s the perfect marriage of comfort food and wholesome ingredients.

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, a cozy date night, or a family gathering, Spinach Artichoke Chicken feels special yet approachable. Served with pasta, rice, or crusty bread, it’s a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table.

What Makes This Recipe Special?

This recipe stands out because it combines lean protein with the indulgent flavors of creamy spinach artichoke dip. The chicken is seared until golden, locking in juices, then smothered in a sauce that’s rich yet balanced.

It’s also quick to prepare—ready in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings when you still want something comforting and flavorful.

The use of thin chicken cutlets ensures even cooking and tenderness, preventing dryness and keeping the dish light.

Tip: Thin cutlets are the secret to juicy chicken and a perfect balance with the creamy sauce.

Flavor Profile Breakdown

The flavor profile of Spinach Artichoke Chicken is layered and satisfying:

  • Chicken: Golden-seared on the outside, tender and juicy inside.
  • Spinach: Fresh, earthy, and slightly sweet, adding color and nutrition.
  • Artichokes: Tangy, nutty, and uniquely textured, balancing richness with brightness.
  • Creamy Sauce: A blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and Parmesan creates a silky, indulgent base.

Together, these elements create a dish that’s savory, creamy, and comforting, with just enough tang to keep it balanced.

Pro Tip: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for subtle heat and flavor contrast.

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

Step 1: Prepare Chicken Pound chicken cutlets to even thickness. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sear Chicken Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken until golden on both sides, about 3–4 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate.

Step 3: Make Sauce Base In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Deglaze with chicken broth, scraping up browned bits for flavor.

Step 4: Add Creamy Elements Stir in cream cheese, sour cream, and Parmesan. Simmer until smooth and thickened.

Step 5: Add Vegetables Fold in spinach and artichokes. Cook until spinach wilts and artichokes are heated through.

Step 6: Combine & Garnish Return chicken to skillet. Spoon sauce over top. Garnish with parsley or lemon zest.

Tip: Deglazing the pan with broth captures all the flavor from searing the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overcooking Chicken: Leads to dryness. Cook cutlets quickly over medium-high heat.
  • Using Watery Spinach: Excess moisture thins the sauce. Pat spinach dry before adding.
  • Skipping Parmesan: Leaves sauce flat. Parmesan adds depth and umami.
  • Adding Sauce Too Early: Makes crust soggy. Rest chicken before saucing.
  • Neglecting Taste Test: Always taste sauce before serving to adjust seasoning.

Tip: Taste and adjust the sauce—it’s the finishing touch that elevates the dish.

Juicy baked chicken breasts topped with creamy spinach artichoke sauce, melted cheese, and fresh herbs served in a skillet.

Spinach Artichoke Chicken Recipe – Easy Low Carb Dinner Idea

Spinach artichoke chicken is the perfect blend of creamy and savory! Juicy chicken breasts baked with a rich spinach artichoke topping and melted cheese make this dish a comforting, flavorful recipe that’s simple to prepare. Ideal for weeknight dinners, family meals, or anyone looking for a delicious low carb dinner idea.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Comfort Food, Main Course
Cuisine American-Inspired, Italian-American fusion
Servings 4
Calories 420 kcal

Equipment

  • Skillet or sauté pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk or spatula
  • Cutting board & knife

Ingredients
  

  • 4 thin chicken cutlets
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 4 oz cream cheese
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup fresh spinach (or thawed frozen, squeezed dry)
  • 1 cup canned artichoke hearts, chopped
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • Optional: red pepper flakes, parsley, lemon zest

Instructions
 

  • Prepare Chicken: Pound cutlets to even thickness. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in skillet. Cook chicken 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Transfer to plate.
  • Make Sauce Base: Melt butter in skillet. Add garlic, sauté until fragrant. Deglaze with chicken broth.
  • Add Creamy Elements: Stir in cream cheese, sour cream, and Parmesan. Simmer until smooth.
  • Add Vegetables: Fold in spinach and artichokes. Cook until spinach wilts.
  • Combine: Return chicken to skillet. Spoon sauce over top. Garnish with parsley or lemon zest
  • Serve: Pair with pasta, rice, or bread.

Notes

  • Add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth.
  •  Keto-friendly: use heavy cream, skip flour.
  •  Vegan option: tofu cutlets + cashew cream.
  •  Mini skillet portions are perfect for entertaining.
  •  Always taste and adjust sauce before serving.
Keyword Comfort Food, creamy chicken recipe, skillet chicken, spinach artichoke chicken, weeknight dinner