Marry Me Chicken (with Spinach)
Tender chicken cutlets in a creamy parmesan skillet sauce with garlic, chili flakes, spinach, and angel hair pasta.
Steps
- 1
Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to make thin cutlets, then season both sides with salt and pepper.
- 2
Lightly dredge the chicken in flour, shaking off the excess.
- 3
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the angel hair until just shy of al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain.
- 4
Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- 5
Cook the chicken for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden and nearly cooked through, then transfer to a plate.
- 6
Lower the heat to medium. Add the remaining butter, garlic, and red pepper flakes, and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- 7
Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits, then stir in the heavy cream, parmesan, and lemon zest.
- 8
Simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until slightly thickened, then add the spinach and stir until wilted.
- 9
Return the chicken and any juices to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and a splash of pasta water, then toss until glossy and the chicken is fully cooked through.
- 10
Finish with lemon juice and herbs if using, then serve hot.
Make it fancy
Kick it up a notch
Optional moves for when you want to impress.
- Top with toasted panko, lemon zest, and salt to taste for a crunchy finish.
- Add a spoonful of dijon to the sauce for extra depth and tang.
- Tuck in a few torn basil leaves right before serving to keep the sauce bright.
- Serve it over buttery orzo or mashed potatoes to catch every bit of sauce.