Easy Chicken Alfredo with Spinach and Mushrooms

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken: I like using boneless, skinless chicken breasts in this recipe because they cook quickly and stay tender. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use turkey breast, or for a meatless version, consider adding chickpeas or tofu instead.

Mushrooms: I prefer cremini mushrooms for their rich flavor, but you can use white button mushrooms or even shiitake for a unique taste. If you’re not a mushroom fan, try zucchini or bell peppers for a different twist!

Heavy Cream: This gives the Alfredo sauce its creaminess. If you want a lighter version, try half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative like cashew or oat cream. Just keep in mind that the texture might be a bit different.

Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a lovely color and nutrients. If you can’t find fresh spinach, frozen will work too—just make sure to thaw and drain it well first.

How Do I Achieve the Perfect Alfredo Sauce?

Making a creamy Alfredo sauce is a wonderful skill to have. Here’s how to get it just right:

• Heat your skillet over medium-high and start with the chicken. Season well so it’s flavorful.
• When you add the garlic, keep an eye on it. You only need a minute for it to become fragrant, otherwise, it can burn quickly.
• After adding the heavy cream and milk, make sure to stir often. Adding the cheese gradually helps it melt smoothly into the sauce.
• When folding in spinach, let it wilt gently; this keeps its vibrant color and nutrients intact.

These steps will help you create a delicious Alfredo that coats your pasta beautifully!

Easy Chicken Alfredo with Spinach and Mushrooms

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Main Dish:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups fresh mushrooms, sliced (cremini or white mushrooms)
• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional: 8 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice, cooked and drained

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious Chicken Alfredo will take about 25 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and easy meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a casual dinner party!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cooking the Chicken:

Start by heating the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the bite-sized chicken pieces. Season them with salt and pepper to taste. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

2. Sautéing the Mushrooms:

In the same skillet, reduce the heat slightly and add the sliced mushrooms. Sauté these for about 4-5 minutes until they begin to release their moisture and become tender. Then, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional minute, stirring to make sure the garlic doesn’t burn—it should smell amazing by now!

3. Making the Cream Sauce:

Lower the heat to medium and carefully pour in the heavy cream and whole milk. Stir well to combine with the mushrooms and garlic. Now, sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and let the mixture come to a gentle simmer. This should take just a couple of minutes.

4. Adding the Cheese:

Next, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese gradually. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely and the sauce thickens slightly—this is when it gets really creamy and comforting!

5. Final Touches:

Add the fresh spinach and the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Gently stir everything together until the spinach wilts down and is nicely coated in that delicious Alfredo sauce.

6. Seasoning and Serving:

Give your dish a taste and feel free to adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Now, if you’ve cooked some pasta, serve the Alfredo over it for a complete meal. If not, you can enjoy it as is for a lovely creamy dish!

And that’s it! Enjoy your creamy, comforting Chicken Alfredo with vibrant spinach and savory mushrooms. Perfect for family dinners or a treat any night of the week!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to thaw chicken is in the fridge overnight or by placing it in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for quicker results. Pat it dry before cutting to cook evenly!

What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?

If you’re looking for lighter options, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even a plant-based cream like cashew or oat cream. Just keep in mind that this may slightly alter the richness of the sauce, but it will still be delicious!

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if necessary to loosen the sauce.

Can I Add More Vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or zucchini. Just sauté them along with the mushrooms, adjusting the cooking time as needed so they become tender but still vibrant!