Lemon Chicken with Artichokes and Spinach

Introduction

Looking for a light, fresh, and flavorful chicken dish that’s packed with nutrition? This Lemon Chicken with Artichokes and Spinach recipe is a delightful choice, combining tender chicken breasts with the tangy brightness of lemon, the unique taste of artichokes, and the rich green flavor of spinach. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation, this recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight or a sophisticated weekend dinner. Plus, it’s filled with nourishing ingredients like lean chicken, heart-healthy olive oil, and antioxidant-rich spinach.

Overview of the Recipe

This recipe provides a delightful balance of flavors. The pan-seared chicken breasts are simmered in a lemony sauce with garlic, capers, and artichokes, creating a delicious blend of tartness and savory notes. The addition of baby spinach enhances the dish’s color, flavor, and nutritional value, making it a wholesome meal with a refreshing Mediterranean twist.

History and Origin

This Lemon Chicken with Artichokes and Spinach recipe draws inspiration from Mediterranean cuisine, known for its vibrant, health-focused ingredients. Artichokes, capers, olive oil, and fresh greens like spinach are commonly used in Mediterranean cooking, as are bright citrus notes from lemon. Each of these ingredients brings its own unique heritage and health benefits, contributing to the longevity and vitality associated with this region’s diet.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 3 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 tablespoon butter (plus more for finishing sauce, if desired)
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (for deglazing the pan; use more chicken broth instead of wine)
• 1/2 cup additional chicken broth (to create a flavorful sauce)
• 2 tablespoons capers
• 1 cup artichoke hearts (sliced or coarsely chopped)
• 3 cups baby spinach
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat until the butter is melted and the mixture is hot.
2. While the skillet is heating, season both sides of the 4 chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
4. Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

Step 2: Prepare Garlic and Deglaze

1. Using the same skillet, add the chopped garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Pour in 1/2 cup of chicken broth to deglaze the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This step adds rich flavor to the sauce.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

1. Stir in the remaining 1/2 cup of chicken broth, capers, and artichoke hearts.
2. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes, reducing slightly to thicken the sauce and intensify the flavors.

Step 4: Add the Spinach

1. Add the 3 cups of baby spinach to the skillet, stirring it gently until it wilts, about 2 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

1. Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce with the spinach, artichokes, and capers.
2. Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the mixture, stirring slightly to incorporate.
3. Add a bit more butter if you prefer a richer sauce, and let everything simmer together for an additional 2 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

1. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a pop of color and flavor.

Serving

This recipe serves 4 people. It’s best enjoyed warm, allowing the sauce to be fully appreciated with each bite. Serve the chicken with a generous helping of the artichokes, spinach, and sauce from the skillet, which adds moisture and rich flavor to every bite.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

Lemon Chicken with Artichokes and Spinach pairs well with various sides to make a complete meal:

• Quinoa or Brown Rice: Both are excellent choices to soak up the lemony sauce.
• Roasted Potatoes: Roasted baby potatoes with a touch of olive oil, salt, and pepper make for a hearty side.
• Steamed Vegetables: Try steamed green beans, asparagus, or broccoli for a lighter side that complements the dish.
• Whole-Grain Pasta: Toss some cooked whole-grain pasta in the skillet sauce for a satisfying meal.

Variations of the Recipe

1. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Incorporate 1/4 cup of sun-dried tomatoes for an extra depth of flavor and a pop of color.
2. Use Fresh Herbs: Try adding fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary in addition to or instead of parsley.
3. Substitute Capers with Green Olives: If you’re not a fan of capers, sliced green olives provide a similar briny flavor.
4. Swap Artichokes for Mushrooms: If artichokes aren’t available, mushrooms offer a similarly savory touch and work well with spinach and lemon.
5. Try with Bone-In Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skinless chicken thighs work well if you prefer dark meat, although they’ll require slightly longer cooking.

Health Benefits Notes

This recipe is not only delicious but also offers a range of nutritional benefits:

1. Lean Protein: Chicken breast is a lean protein source that supports muscle repair, growth, and overall satiety.
2. Heart-Healthy Fats: Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats that are beneficial for heart health.
3. Antioxidants and Immunity Boost: Ingredients like garlic, lemon juice, and parsley are rich in immunity-boosting nutrients, while spinach offers vitamins A and C.
4. Digestive Health: Artichoke hearts are a great source of fiber, aiding digestion and helping stabilize blood sugar levels.
5. Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Spinach, capers, and olive oil contain antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and support heart health.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead. Store them separately and reheat together in a skillet for the best flavor and texture.

2. What’s a good substitute for artichoke hearts? If you don’t have artichokes, try using mushrooms, zucchini, or asparagus for a similar hearty texture.

3. Can I use bone-in chicken? Yes, but bone-in chicken will require a longer cooking time. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.

4. How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to keep the chicken moist.

5. What’s a good substitute for capers? Green olives can be used as a substitute for capers, offering a similar briny flavor.

6. Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet? Yes, this recipe is naturally low in carbs, making it suitable for low-carb and keto diets.

Conclusion

Lemon Chicken with Artichokes and Spinach is a deliciously vibrant and healthful recipe that combines lean protein, fresh vegetables, and Mediterranean-inspired flavors. With its quick preparation and a rich, flavorful sauce, this dish is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a nutritious and satisfying meal without the fuss. Ideal for weeknight dinners or a special occasion, this dish will be a hit at your table.

Lemon Chicken with Artichokes and Spinach

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• Author: Wendy Balderas
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Lemon Chicken with Artichokes and Spinach is a quick, nutritious, and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with fresh lemon, artichokes, and spinach. This one-pan recipe is perfect for busy nights, offering a light yet satisfying meal with a Mediterranean twist. Ready in just 30 minutes!

 

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 3 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 tablespoon butter (plus more for finishing, if desired)
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (for deglazing the pan)
• 1/2 cup additional chicken broth (for sauce)
• 2 tablespoons capers
• 1 cup artichoke hearts, sliced or coarsely chopped
• 3 cups baby spinach
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

• Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high. Season chicken with salt and pepper and add to the skillet. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet.
• Prepare Garlic and Deglaze: In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Pour in 1/2 cup chicken broth, scraping up browned bits from the skillet.
• Create the Sauce: Add remaining chicken broth, capers, and artichoke hearts. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
• Add Spinach: Stir in spinach until wilted, about 2 minutes.
• Combine Ingredients: Return chicken to skillet, add lemon juice, and a bit more butter if desired. Simmer for 2 more minutes.
• Finish and Serve: Season with extra salt and pepper if needed, and garnish with parsley.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use an extra pat of butter before serving. To make it heartier, add sun-dried tomatoes or green olives.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired

Nutrition

• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 35g