Spinach Artichoke Chicken Thighs Recipe

A sumptuous dish that brings together the creamy goodness of spinach and artichoke with succulent chicken thighs. Easy to make yet impressive, this recipe will surely delight your palate and wow your guests.

Photos of Spinach Artichoke Chicken Thighs Recipe

All ingredients for this recipe should be easy to find at your local supermarket. However, take note when buying artichoke hearts. These are typically sold in jars or cans in the canned vegetable aisle. Ensure you opt for artichoke hearts in brine and not oil for best results.

Chicken Thighs with Spinach and Artichoke Ingredients

Chicken thighs: The star of the dish, these will be richly seasoned and oven-baked to perfection.

Olive oil: Used for searing the chicken thighs and sautéing garlic.

Garlic: Adds a punch of flavor when sautéed with olive oil.

Cream cheese: This brings the creamy and rich texture to the sauce.

Chicken stock: Adds depth of flavor to the sauce.

Artichoke hearts in brine: These add a unique flavor and texture to the dish. Ensure these are drained before using.

Baby spinach leaves: Wilted in the sauce, these add a burst of vibrant color and nutrition while balancing the richness of the dish.

Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp and salty flavor, enhancing the overall taste.

Salt and cracked black pepper: For seasoning the chicken and the sauce to taste.

One reader, Cynthie Janes says:

This spinach artichoke chicken thighs recipe is a game-changer! The combination of tender chicken, creamy artichoke, and flavorful spinach is simply divine. The dish is easy to prepare and tastes absolutely delicious. It's a definite winner for family dinners or special occasions. Highly recommend trying it out!

Cynthie Janes

Cooking Techniques for Spinach Artichoke Chicken Thighs

How to sear chicken: Sear the seasoned chicken thighs in a hot skillet for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they are crisp and golden. This will help to lock in the juices and add flavor to the chicken.

How to wilt spinach: Add the spinach to the skillet and simmer until the leaves just start to wilt. This will help to retain the vibrant green color and maintain the fresh flavor of the spinach in the dish.

How to bake chicken thighs: Place the skillet with the chicken and sauce into a preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until the chicken is completely cooked through. This will ensure that the chicken is tender and juicy.

How To Make Spinach Artichoke Chicken Thighs

This low carb spinach artichoke chicken recipe will be another hit on your family dinner made with fresh spinach, soft artichokes, parmesan, and garlic.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

6skinless chicken thighs,or breast fillets
2tbspolive oil,divided
1tbspminced garlic,4 cloves
8oozcream cheese,full fat or reduced fat
1cupchicken stock,broth
14ozartichoke hearts in brine ,drained and roughly chopped
4cupsbaby spinach leaves ,washed
cupparmesan cheese
Salt and cracked black pepper,to season

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper to taste.
Heat oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until crisp and golden. Drain most of the excess fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon for flavor.
Sauté garlic until fragrant for 30 seconds, then add cream cheese. Occasionally stir while breaking it up with the end of your wooden spoon until it begins to melt and the consistency becomes thinner.
Pour in the chicken broth; bring to the boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer until sauce thickens for about 5 minutes.
Stir in artichokes and spinach. Simmer until the spinach has just started to wilt and add the parmesan cheese. Taste test and season with salt and pepper, if needed.
Place skillet into a preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until completely cooked through.

Nutrition

Calories: 607.75kcal
Fat: 56.88g
Saturated Fat: 29.94g
Monounsaturated Fat: 16.55g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.80g
Carbohydrates: 15.74g
Fiber: 3.95g
Sugar: 6.18g
Protein: 12.50g
Cholesterol: 167.42mg
Sodium: 676.69mg
Calcium: 191.19mg
Potassium: 548.97mg
Iron: 1.81mg
Vitamin A: 585.61µg
Vitamin C: 10.13mg

Expert Advice for Perfecting This Recipe

When searing the chicken thighs, ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken. This will help to create a crispy and golden exterior. Also, when adding the spinach, remember that it wilts quickly, so it's best to add it towards the end of the cooking process to maintain its vibrant color and texture.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Dish

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and measure out ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that allow you to cook everything in a single pot or skillet to minimize cleanup.

Use kitchen tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets like food processors and mandolines to speed up prep work.

Follow the recipe: Stick to the recipe to ensure efficient and accurate cooking without the need for adjustments.

Organize your workspace: Keep your kitchen organized and tidy to avoid wasting time searching for ingredients and tools.

Multi-task: Plan tasks strategically to maximize efficiency, such as chopping vegetables while something is simmering.

Substitute Ingredients For Spinach Artichoke Chicken Thighs Recipe

chicken thighs - Substitute with chicken breasts: Chicken breasts can be used as a leaner alternative to chicken thighs, although they may cook slightly faster.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar smoke point and mild flavor, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in this recipe.
minced garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a convenient substitute for minced garlic, providing a milder flavor and easy incorporation into the dish.
cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier alternative to cream cheese, adding a tangy creaminess to the dish.
chicken stock - Substitute with vegetable stock: Vegetable stock can be used as a flavorful substitute for chicken stock, especially for those looking for a vegetarian option.
artichoke hearts - Substitute with asparagus spears: Asparagus spears can provide a similar texture and flavor profile to artichoke hearts, adding a unique twist to the dish.
baby spinach leaves - Substitute with kale leaves: Kale leaves can be used as a substitute for spinach, offering a hearty texture and robust flavor to the dish.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino cheese: Pecorino cheese can be used as a substitute for Parmesan, providing a similar salty and nutty flavor to the dish.

Presenting Spinach Artichoke Chicken Thighs

Elevate the plating: When presenting the dish, focus on creating a visually stunning plate. Arrange the chicken thighs with precision and artistry, ensuring that each component is showcased beautifully.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a pop of color and freshness to the dish by garnishing with fresh parsley or chives. This will not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a hint of freshness to the overall presentation.
Incorporate contrasting textures: Consider adding a crispy element, such as a delicate parmesan crisp, to contrast with the creamy spinach and artichoke sauce. This will provide a delightful textural contrast that elevates the dining experience.
Utilize elegant serving ware: Choose sophisticated and refined serving ware that complements the dish. Opt for minimalist yet elegant plates or platters that allow the vibrant colors of the dish to stand out.
Emphasize symmetry and balance: Pay attention to the placement of each element on the plate, striving for symmetry and balance. This meticulous approach demonstrates attention to detail and elevates the overall presentation.
Consider the negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate, allowing the dish to breathe and creating a visually appealing presentation that exudes sophistication.
Highlight the vibrant colors: Ensure that the colors of the dish, including the rich green of the spinach and the golden-brown hues of the chicken, are showcased prominently, adding to the visual allure of the presentation.
Add a finishing touch: Before serving, drizzle a subtle swirl of balsamic reduction around the plate for a touch of elegance and a hint of acidity, enhancing the overall flavor profile and presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Recipe

Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking and roasting food by surrounding it with dry heat.
Skillet: A frying pan with a flat bottom and low sides, used for frying, searing, and browning foods.
Wooden spoon: A kitchen utensil used for stirring, mixing, and serving food.
Tongs: A tool with two arms and a pivot near the handle, used for gripping and lifting items.
Measuring cup: A kitchen utensil used primarily to measure the volume of liquid or bulk solid cooking ingredients.
Measuring spoons: Utensils used to measure small quantities of ingredients.
Oven-proof skillet: A skillet that can be safely used in an oven, typically made of cast iron or stainless steel.
Spatula: A kitchen tool with a broad, flat, blunt blade, used for mixing, spreading, and turning food.
Baking dish: A type of pan specifically designed for baking, roasting, and cooking in the oven.
Food thermometer: A tool used to measure the internal temperature of cooked meat and other dishes.
Cutting board: A durable board on which food is cut and prepared.
Knife: A sharp-edged utensil used for cutting or slicing food.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used for mixing ingredients, such as batters, salads, and marinades.
Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for whipping and blending ingredients.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a long handle, used for stewing or boiling.

Storing and Freezing Spinach Artichoke Chicken Thighs

Allow the chicken thighs to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container or ziplock bag. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze, place the cooled chicken thighs in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
When ready to reheat, thaw the frozen chicken thighs overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheat the thawed chicken thighs in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
If the sauce appears too thick after reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out and adjust the seasoning if needed.
For best results, consume the reheated spinach artichoke chicken thighs within 1-2 days of thawing.

Reheating Leftover Spinach Artichoke Chicken Thighs

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover chicken thighs in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture in the chicken and prevents it from drying out.
For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place the chicken thighs in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the chicken to become rubbery.
If you want to crisp up the skin, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the leftover chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-15 minutes or until the skin is crispy and the chicken is heated through.
For a stovetop option, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the leftover chicken thighs and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until heated through and the skin is crispy.
To reheat the spinach and artichoke sauce, place it in a saucepan over low heat and stir occasionally until heated through. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your reheated dish, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top before serving.

Interesting Trivia About Spinach Artichoke Chicken Thighs

Spinach artichoke chicken thighs are a delicious and healthy option for a protein-packed meal.

Budget-Friendly: Making Spinach Artichoke Chicken Thighs at Home

This spinach artichoke chicken thighs recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of affordable ingredients like chicken thighs, spinach, and artichoke hearts makes it budget-friendly. The dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying meal for the family. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25, depending on the availability and pricing of ingredients. Overall Verdict: 8/10

Is This Chicken Thigh Recipe Healthy or Not?

The spinach artichoke chicken thighs recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes nutrient-rich ingredients like spinach, artichokes, and chicken thighs, which provide essential vitamins, minerals, and lean protein. However, the recipe also contains high-fat ingredients such as cream cheese and olive oil, which can contribute to excessive calorie intake if consumed in large portions.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of cream cheese or replace it with a lower-fat alternative like Greek yogurt or cottage cheese
Use a smaller amount of olive oil or opt for a cooking spray to minimize added fats
Increase the proportion of spinach and artichokes to boost the dish's fiber and nutrient content
Serve the chicken thighs with a side of colorful, non-starchy vegetables to create a balanced meal
Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt intake
Remove the chicken skin before cooking to reduce saturated fat content

By incorporating these modifications, you can enhance the nutritional value of the dish while still enjoying its delicious flavors. Remember, moderation is key, and pairing this recipe with a well-rounded diet and regular physical activity is essential for overall health and well-being.

Our Editor's Opinion on Spinach Artichoke Chicken Thighs

The spinach artichoke chicken thighs recipe is a delightful combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and flavorful vegetables. The cooking method ensures the chicken stays juicy, while the creamy spinach and artichoke sauce adds a rich and indulgent touch. The dish is well-balanced and offers a satisfying blend of textures and flavors. It's a versatile recipe that can be served with a variety of sides, making it a great option for a family dinner or a special occasion. Overall, this recipe is a winner and is sure to impress anyone who tries it.

Enhance Your Spinach Artichoke Chicken Thighs Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic, butter, and a hint of parmesan cheese.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Fresh asparagus spears grilled to perfection and finished with a sprinkle of zesty lemon zest.

Balsamic Glazed Carrots: Tender carrots roasted with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love This Dish

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken: This creamy and flavorful chicken dish is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of garlic, parmesan, and chicken will leave your taste buds wanting more.

Mango Salsa Chicken: Add a tropical twist to your chicken dish with this mango salsa recipe. The sweet and tangy flavors of the mango will complement the savory chicken perfectly.

Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Bowl: For a healthy and satisfying meal, try this roasted vegetable quinoa bowl. Packed with colorful and nutritious vegetables, this dish is a great way to get your daily dose of vitamins and minerals.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Spinach Artichoke Chicken Thighs

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and crispy for a delicious start to any meal.

Bruschetta: Elevate a classic appetizer by topping crispy slices of toasted bread with a fresh and vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, and balsamic glaze. This light and refreshing dish is perfect for any occasion.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. This elegant dessert is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth after a fancy dinner party.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Delight in a luscious strawberry cheesecake, featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth, velvety filling. Garnish with fresh strawberries for a pop of color and a burst of fruity flavor.

Why trust this Spinach Artichoke Chicken Thighs Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of spinach, artichoke, and chicken thighs, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The use of cream cheese and parmesan cheese adds a rich and creamy element, while the inclusion of garlic infuses a delightful aroma. The method of searing the chicken thighs before baking ensures a crispy exterior and succulent interior. With the addition of chicken stock, the dish is elevated with depth of flavor. The incorporation of olive oil and salt and pepper guarantees a well-seasoned and satisfying meal.

Want to share your experience making this Spinach Artichoke Chicken Thighs dish or have any tips to enhance the recipe? Join the discussion in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

Can I use bone-in chicken thighs for this recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs for this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as bone-in thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

Can I substitute the cream cheese with another type of cheese?

While cream cheese adds a rich and creamy texture to the dish, you can substitute it with other soft cheeses like mascarpone or even a combination of sour cream and shredded mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh baby spinach?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach in place of fresh baby spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen spinach before adding it to the dish.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time by completing all the steps up to the point of baking. Simply cover the skillet and refrigerate until you are ready to bake it. When ready, bake as directed in the recipe.

Can I make this recipe without using an oven-proof skillet?

If you don't have an oven-proof skillet, you can transfer the contents of the skillet to a baking dish before placing it in the oven for the final cooking step. Just make sure to scrape all the flavorful bits from the skillet into the baking dish before baking.