Looking for a quick and healthy meal that fits perfectly within the Whole30 guidelines? This chicken and spinach skillet is not just nutritious, but incredibly delicious too. It’s a go-to recipe for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without the fuss.
This recipe features tender chicken thighs paired with vibrant spinach, all cooked in a savory garlic and onion sauce. The flavors meld together beautifully, creating a dish that’s both fresh and hearty.
Ingredients that Shine
This skillet dish centers around the star ingredients: chicken and spinach. Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs ensures a tender texture that pairs beautifully with the vibrant greens.
Fresh spinach is not just nutritious; it contributes a lovely color and a subtle earthiness to the dish. The addition of garlic and onion enhances the overall flavor profile, creating a savory backdrop that elevates the entire meal.
A Simple Cooking Process
The preparation for this skillet meal is straightforward, making it an excellent choice for busy evenings. Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces and seasoning them with a blend of salt, pepper, and paprika.
Cooking in a hot skillet, the chicken takes about 6-8 minutes to brown and develop a rich flavor. Removing the chicken leaves space for sautéing the onions and garlic, which releases a delightful aroma that fills the kitchen.
Combining Flavors
Once the onions turn translucent, adding fresh spinach brings a burst of color to the skillet. It wilts quickly, taking just a couple of minutes to soften and integrate with the aromatic base.
Returning the chicken to the skillet along with a splash of fresh lemon juice brightens the dish even more. The combination of all these elements creates a harmony of flavors that is both satisfying and healthy.
A Touch of Freshness
Garnishing with fresh parsley before serving adds a vibrant touch to the dish. This simple step enhances the presentation, making it not only appetizing but visually appealing.
Served straight from the skillet, this meal invites sharing and enjoyment around the table. It’s a perfect dish for family dinners or casual gatherings, showcasing healthy eating without sacrificing taste.
Nutritional Highlights
This chicken and spinach skillet is designed to fit within the Whole30 guidelines, providing a wholesome meal option. With around 300 calories per serving, it’s both filling and low in carbohydrates.
Each serving delivers a good amount of protein, making it a great choice for those looking to maintain energy levels throughout the day without excess calories.
Serving Suggestions
This dish can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. The light and nutritious profile complements many sides, enhancing the overall meal experience.
For those looking to add more texture, consider serving it over cauliflower rice or alongside sweet potato wedges. The options are numerous, allowing for customization based on personal preferences.
Healthy Whole30 Chicken and Spinach Skillet
This Whole30 chicken and spinach skillet is a simple yet flavorful dish that showcases the natural taste of the chicken and the vibrant greens. With a hint of garlic and onion, it’s a satisfying meal that feels indulgent while being completely compliant with Whole30 principles.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients: Slice the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add Spinach: Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Combine: Return the chicken to the skillet, add lemon juice, and stir to combine everything well. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to heat through.
- Serve: Plate the chicken and spinach, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 300kcal
- Fat: 16g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 4g