Easy Smoked Paprika Chicken With Creamed Spinach Recipe

Smoked paprika chicken delivers a vibrant culinary experience that reinvents ordinary poultry into an extraordinary meal.

Bold spices dance across tender meat, creating layers of robust flavor and aromatic complexity.

Home cooks appreciate how this remarkable dish balances intense seasoning with subtle undertones of smokiness and warmth.

Mediterranean-inspired techniques elevate simple ingredients into something truly spectacular, making weeknight dinners feel surprisingly elegant.

The deep red spice brings depth and intensity to classic protein preparations, promising a memorable dining adventure.

Creamy spinach serves as the perfect complementary side, offering rich texture and nutritional balance to the spiced chicken.

Professional chefs and passionate home cooks alike adore this recipe for its sophisticated yet approachable technique.

What Makes Smoked Paprika Chicken with Creamed Spinach Irresistible

• Savor Bold Flavor Combinations: The smoked paprika adds a deep, smoky warmth to the chicken while the creamy spinach provides a rich, luxurious counterpoint that dances on your taste buds.
• Master Quick Weeknight Cooking: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy home cooks who want a restaurant-quality meal without complicated techniques or endless prep work.
• Elevate Simple Ingredients: Basic chicken thighs transform into a gourmet dish through smart seasoning and careful cooking techniques like searing in a cast-iron skillet and finishing with butter.
• Enjoy Nutritious Comfort Food: The protein-packed chicken and nutrient-dense spinach create a balanced meal that feels indulgent yet wholesome, proving healthy eating can be incredibly delicious.

Ingredients That Bring Depth to This Spinach-Infused Chicken Dish

• Chicken Thighs: Tender and flavorful cut of meat that absorbs seasonings well, perfect for skillet cooking with a crispy exterior.

• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential flavor enhancers that bring out the natural taste of the chicken.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds a rich, smoky depth and vibrant red color to the chicken, creating a complex flavor profile.

• Fresh Parsley: Bright, fresh herb that adds a pop of color and light herbal note to the finished dish.
• Lemon Zest: Provides a zingy, citrusy brightness that cuts through the richness of the creamed spinach.

• Olive Oil: Helps create a perfect sear on the chicken and prevents sticking to the skillet.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps create a glossy finish on the cooked chicken.

• Heavy Cream: Creates a rich, smooth base for the creamed spinach.
• Garlic: Adds a deep, aromatic flavor to the cream sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: Provides a salty, nutty flavor and helps thicken the cream sauce.
• Spinach: Fresh green vegetable that becomes tender and creamy when cooked in the sauce.

How to Prepare Smoked Paprika Chicken in a Creamy Spinach Base

Step 1: Prepare Creamy Spinach Base

Heat heavy cream and minced garlic in a large skillet until it reaches a boil.

Reduce heat to low-medium and stir in Parmesan cheese until completely melted (2-4 minutes).

Add spinach and gently mix until just wilted.

Season with salt and pepper.

Finish by sprinkling fresh lemon zest on top.

Step 2: Season Chicken Perfectly

Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels.

• Salt
• Black pepper
• Smoked paprika

Step 3: Sear Chicken to Golden Perfection

Preheat cast-iron skillet over medium heat for 3 minutes.

Drizzle olive oil into the hot skillet.

Carefully place seasoned chicken thighs in the skillet.

Cook for 5 minutes on each side until deep golden brown.

Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe cooking.

Step 4: Add Luxurious Butter Finish

Remove skillet from heat.

Add butter and gently swirl to coat chicken.

Step 5: Plate and Garnish

Transfer chicken to serving plates.

Top with freshly chopped parsley.

Serve alongside creamy spinach.

Tips for Cooking Chicken That’s Packed with Paprika Flavor

• Maximize Paprika Flavor: Toast smoked paprika in the pan for 30 seconds before seasoning chicken to enhance its deep, smoky undertones.
• Perfect Chicken Sear: Pat chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels before seasoning to ensure a golden, crispy exterior.
• Cream Sauce Rescue: If creamed spinach becomes too thick, gradually whisk in a splash of milk or chicken broth to restore silky consistency.
• Temperature Control: Use a meat thermometer to precisely check chicken's doneness, preventing overcooking and maintaining juicy texture.
• Fresh Herb Boost: Chop parsley just before garnishing to release maximum aromatic oils and bright, fresh flavor.

The Best Way to Store and Reheat This Spinach-Packed Favorite

• Refrigerate chicken and spinach separately in airtight containers within 2 hours of cooking. Store in the fridge for 3-4 days. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or use sealed containers to prevent moisture loss. Reheat chicken gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of olive oil to maintain juiciness. For creamed spinach, warm slowly in a saucepan, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching and preserve creamy texture. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make chicken tough and separate spinach's delicate cream sauce. Always check internal chicken temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving reheated dish to ensure food safety.

What Complements Smoked Paprika Chicken with Creamed Spinach

• Amplify Wine Pairing: Reach for a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which cuts through the creamy spinach and complements the smoky paprika chicken with bright, zesty notes.
• Enhance Bread Selection: Serve warm, crusty sourdough or garlic bread to soak up the rich, creamy spinach sauce and provide a delightful textural contrast to the tender chicken.
• Craft Veggie Companion: Roasted asparagus or grilled zucchini make perfect side vegetables, adding a light, fresh element that balances the richness of the creamed spinach and brings more color to the plate.
• Boost Drink Option: A chilled glass of sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon refreshes the palate between bites, cleansing away the creamy and smoky flavors while keeping the meal feeling light and enjoyable.

Creative Variations for Spinach and Paprika Chicken Lovers

• Mediterranean Herb Fusion: Swap smoked paprika with a blend of oregano, thyme, and rosemary for a Greek-inspired flavor profile. Replace Parmesan with feta cheese in the creamed spinach for added tanginess.
• Spicy Cajun Kick: Use Cajun seasoning instead of smoked paprika on the chicken. Incorporate cayenne pepper and andouille sausage bits into the creamed spinach for a Louisiana-style heat.
• Coconut Curry Transformation: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk in the spinach. Season chicken with curry powder and garam masala for an Indian-inspired version. Garnish with fresh cilantro instead of parsley.
• Mushroom Umami Upgrade: Add sautéed wild mushrooms to the creamed spinach. Use a mix of dried porcini and fresh shiitake mushrooms for deep, earthy flavors. Sprinkle chicken with smoked salt for extra depth.

Smoked Paprika Chicken With Creamed Spinach Recipe

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4.8 from 13 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Smoky Spanish-inspired flavors dance through this irresistible smoked paprika chicken, complemented by rich, velvety creamed spinach. Delicate chicken breasts infused with aromatic spices will transport Mediterranean culinary magic directly to your dinner plate.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 10 oz spinach
• 1.5 lb chicken thighs, skinless, boneless
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly shredded

Seasonings and Flavoring:

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• Salt and black pepper, freshly ground, to taste

Liquids and Fats:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

1. Prepare the creamed spinach by heating a large skillet and bringing heavy cream (236 milliliters or ) and finely chopped garlic to a gentle boil.
2. Reduce the heat to low-medium and gradually incorporate freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese fully melts and creates a smooth sauce, approximately 2-4 minutes.
3. Gently fold fresh spinach leaves into the creamy mixture, stirring until they just wilt and become tender, maintaining their vibrant green color.
4. Season the spinach sauce with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavors, then finish with delicate lemon zest for a bright, citrusy note.
5. Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels and generously season both sides with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and smoky paprika, ensuring even coverage.
6. Place a cast-iron skillet over medium heat and allow it to warm for 3 minutes, creating an ideal cooking surface for perfect searing.
7. Drizzle olive oil into the heated skillet and carefully lay the seasoned chicken thighs, allowing them to develop a golden-brown crust.
8. Cook the chicken for 5 minutes on each side, ensuring a crispy exterior and fully cooked interior, with an internal temperature reaching 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
9. Remove the skillet from heat and add a pat of unsalted butter, gently swirling to coat the chicken and create a rich, glossy finish.
10. Transfer the chicken to serving plates, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and plate alongside the creamy spinach for a complete, elegant meal.

Notes

• Elevate your weeknight dinner with this restaurant-worthy dish that combines smoky chicken and luxurious creamed spinach in under 30 minutes.
• Smoked paprika transforms ordinary chicken thighs into a deeply flavorful, restaurant-quality main course with minimal effort.
• Cast-iron skillet is crucial for achieving a perfect golden-brown sear and developing rich, caramelized chicken exterior.
• Internal chicken temperature is critical; use a meat thermometer to ensure safe and juicy results every time.
• Fresh lemon zest and parsley brighten the rich, creamy spinach, adding a vibrant, fresh counterpoint to the dish’s deeper flavors.
• Butter added off-heat creates a silky, glossy finish that enhances the chicken’s natural richness without burning.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 620 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 620 mg
• Fat: 48 g
• Saturated Fat: 22 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 7 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 42 g
• Cholesterol: 230 mg