Looking for a healthy, flavorful dish that comes together in just 20 minutes? This spicy garlic chicken with spinach and tomato is the perfect answer for busy weeknights. It packs bold flavor with tender chicken, vibrant tomatoes, and nutritious spinach—all in one skillet! Whether you’re trying to eat cleaner or just want a satisfying low-carb meal, this recipe will become a go-to favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
- Thinly slice the chicken breasts and dice the tomatoes.
- Mince the garlic cloves and measure out the spices.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes until golden brown.
Step 3: Add Aromatics & Seasoning
- Add the minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, and optional red pepper flakes to the pan.
- Stir continuously for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant and the chicken is coated evenly.
Step 4: Finish with Spinach and Tomatoes
- Add the spinach and cook until just wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Gently fold in the diced tomatoes and remove from heat to keep them fresh and slightly crisp.
Variations
- Use turkey breast instead of chicken for a leaner option
- Swap spinach for kale or Swiss chard for a heartier green
- Sprinkle feta cheese or Parmesan on top for added creaminess
- Add a splash of lemon juice or balsamic vinegar for brightness
Cooking Note
- Do not overcook the spinach—it should stay vibrant and lightly wilted
- Dice tomatoes right before adding to maintain their juiciness
- Smoked paprika is key to that warm, earthy flavor—don’t skip it!
Serving Suggestions
This dish is wonderfully versatile! Serve it over a bed of rice, cauliflower rice, or quinoa. It also makes a great filling for wraps, or can be tossed into pasta for a Mediterranean-inspired bowl. For a low-carb meal, enjoy it as-is with a side of roasted vegetables.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave. To meal prep, cook the chicken in advance and add spinach and tomatoes fresh during reheating to preserve their texture.
Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 240
Protein: 32g
Sodium: 390mg
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
To make this even lighter, reduce the olive oil to 1/2 tablespoon and use a non-stick skillet. You can also use skinless chicken thighs for a juicier cut, or tofu for a vegetarian variation. For added fiber, serve with lentils or chickpeas.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the chicken: Searing too long dries it out—cook just until no longer pink.
- Adding tomatoes too early: They’ll turn mushy; fold them in at the end for the best texture.
- Skipping the seasoning: The spices elevate this dish—don’t go light!
- Using frozen spinach directly: Always thaw and drain to prevent excess water in the pan.
Conclusion
Fast, flavorful, and full of nutrients, this spicy garlic chicken with spinach and tomato is proof that weeknight dinners don’t have to be boring. Bursting with color and taste, it’s a simple skillet recipe that will quickly become part of your regular rotation. Give it a try tonight and don’t forget to share your spin on it!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
A: Yes, but drain them well and add at the end to avoid excess moisture.
Q2: How do I make it vegetarian?
A: Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh and follow the same steps.
Q3: Can I freeze this dish?
A: It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the cooked chicken separately and add fresh spinach and tomatoes when reheating.
Q4: Is it spicy?
A: Only mildly. Add red pepper flakes to adjust heat to your preference.
Spicy Garlic Chicken with Spinach and Tomato
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A flavorful one-pan dinner featuring tender chicken, fresh spinach, diced tomatoes, and warm spices like garlic, paprika, and cumin. Ready in just 20 minutes!
Ingredients
1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
1 tbsp olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp cumin
Salt & pepper to taste
3 cups fresh spinach
2 medium tomatoes, diced
Optional: red pepper flakes
Instructions
1. Thinly slice chicken and prep all ingredients.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through.
4. Stir in garlic, paprika, cumin, and red pepper flakes.
5. Add spinach and cook until just wilted.
6. Fold in tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, then remove from heat.
Notes
Do not overcook spinach; it should stay vibrant.
Add tomatoes at the end to keep them slightly crisp.
For more heat, increase red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-Pan
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: spicy garlic chicken, chicken spinach tomato, quick dinner, low carb chicken