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Chicken Spinach and Mushroom: A Healthy, Low-Carb Dinner Recipe You’ll Love

4 Mins read
Creamy garlic chicken with sautéed spinach and mushrooms in a skillet, garnished with fresh herbs.

If you’re looking for an easy dinner idea that’s full of flavor and good-for-you ingredients, look no further than this Chicken Spinach and Mushroom recipe. This one-skillet meal is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or when you’re simply craving a comforting yet healthy dinner. The combination of lean chicken breast, earthy mushrooms, and nutrient-packed spinach is hard to beat — especially when cooked in a light garlic-infused sauce that brings it all together.

It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent but is actually incredibly light and nutritious. Whether you’re following a low-carb diet, eating for fat loss, or just want a simple meat and veggie meal, this recipe checks all the boxes.


🧄 Why This Recipe Works

This recipe is a smart pick for anyone trying to eat healthy without giving up on delicious food. Here’s why you’ll want to keep this dish on repeat:

  • Low in carbs and high in protein: Ideal for keto, low-carb, and high-protein diets.
  • Loaded with vegetables: Spinach and mushrooms bring fiber, antioxidants, and flavor.
  • Simple, whole-food ingredients: No processed sauces or fillers — just real food.
  • Quick to cook: From start to finish, this takes under 30 minutes.
  • Meal prep-friendly: Stores well and reheats beautifully.

Whether you serve it for dinner, pack it for lunch, or make it part of a meal prep plan, this dish is a winner.


🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4)

Here’s what you’ll need to make Chicken Spinach and Mushroom:

  • 2 large chicken breasts (boneless, skinless – about 1.5 lbs total)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (white button or cremini)
  • 3 cups baby spinach, fresh and trimmed
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or water)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and depth)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

🥘 Instructions

🔹 Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
  2. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

🔹 Step 2: Sear the Chicken

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, until lightly browned and cooked through.
  3. Remove the chicken and set aside.

🔹 Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

  1. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil to the same pan.
  2. Sauté the onion for 2–3 minutes until translucent.
  3. Add the garlic and cook another minute.
  4. Add the sliced mushrooms, thyme, and a pinch of salt. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms are browned.

🔹 Step 4: Wilt the Spinach

  1. Add the baby spinach and pour in the chicken broth.
  2. Cover the pan for 1–2 minutes until spinach wilts.
  3. Stir to combine and allow most of the liquid to evaporate.

🔹 Step 5: Finish the Dish

  1. Return the chicken to the skillet.
  2. Add lemon juice and stir everything together.
  3. Simmer for 2–3 minutes so the flavors blend.
  4. Optional: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan before serving.

🍽️ How to Serve Chicken Spinach and Mushroom

This dish is flexible and can be served in a variety of ways depending on your dietary needs:

  • Low-carb/keto: Serve with cauliflower rice, zoodles (zucchini noodles), or steamed broccoli.
  • Gluten-free: Perfect as-is — no modifications needed.
  • For added carbs: Pair with quinoa, brown rice, couscous, or mashed potatoes.
  • Light dinner: Serve as is with a green salad or roasted vegetables.

Want to get creative? Wrap the mixture in a low-carb tortilla for a high-protein wrap, or top it on baked spaghetti squash for a comforting bowl.


🧑‍🍳 Cooking Method Variations

You can also cook this dish in other ways depending on your kitchen tools:

🥘 Cast Iron Skillet

Gives you the best sear on the chicken and deeply caramelized mushrooms.

🥣 Slow Cooker

Want to set it and forget it?

  • Add all ingredients (except spinach and lemon juice) to a slow cooker.
  • Cook on low for 3-4 hours, then stir in spinach 10 minutes before serving.

🔥 Oven-Baked Version

  • Layer the seared chicken, sautéed mushrooms, and fresh spinach in a baking dish.
  • Add broth, cover with foil, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.
  • Uncover, top with Parmesan, and broil for 2–3 minutes for a golden finish.

🥗 Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

NutrientAmount
Calories310
Protein34g
Carbs5g
Fiber2g
Fat14g
Sugar1g

Great for those looking for low-cal, low-carb chicken recipes and fat-free chicken recipes when made without cheese or oil-heavy additions.


❄️ Storage & Meal Prep Tips

This dish stores and reheats like a dream:

Refrigerator:

  • Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat in a pan over medium heat or microwave for 2–3 minutes.

Freezer:

  • Freeze in portions for up to 2 months.
  • Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

Meal Prep Idea:

Portion with cauliflower rice and steamed green beans in prep containers for healthy lunches all week!


💡 Helpful Tips and Tricks

  • Don’t overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken becomes dry. Remove it once fully cooked and finish the dish with residual heat.
  • Use fresh spinach: It wilts perfectly and doesn’t water down the dish like frozen spinach can.
  • Add cream (optional): If you want a creamy version, add 1/3 cup of light cream or coconut milk after the spinach wilts.
  • Deglaze the pan: After cooking the mushrooms, use the chicken broth to deglaze for added flavor from the browned bits.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs add more flavor and tend to stay juicier.

Can I add cheese?

Yes! Parmesan, mozzarella, or even goat cheese work wonderfully if you’re not avoiding dairy.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

Yes, this dish is very keto-compliant when served with low-carb sides like cauliflower rice.

Can I use frozen spinach?

You can, but make sure to thaw and drain it very well to avoid excess water in the dish.


👪 Family-Friendly and Kid-Approved

Though it’s veggie-forward, the savory flavors of mushrooms, garlic, and chicken make it appealing to even picky eaters. If needed, chop spinach extra fine or blend it into a light sauce for kids. Serve with pasta or rice to balance things out for the whole family.


🔄 Variations to Try Next Time

  • Add sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
  • Stir in cooked lentils or white beans for plant-based protein.
  • Make it spicy with chili flakes or cayenne pepper.
  • Add a splash of white wine instead of broth for a fancier take.

The simplicity of this dish makes it a perfect canvas for your creativity!


📢 Perfect For:

  • Healthy weeknight meals
  • Low-carb lunch boxes
  • Light, protein-packed dinners
  • Make-ahead meal prep
  • Clean eating meal plans
  • High-protein, low-calorie diets
  • Quick comfort food fix

📝 Final Thoughts

The Chicken Spinach and Mushroom dish is proof that healthy meals don’t have to be bland, boring, or complicated. With its protein-rich chicken, flavorful mushrooms, and vibrant spinach, it’s a perfect example of how everyday ingredients can come together to make something truly satisfying.

Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family, hosting friends, or trying to stay on track with your nutrition goals, this meal fits beautifully into your routine. It’s a staple recipe that you can rely on again and again — healthy, hearty, and always a hit.

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