Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup flour
Sauce & Cooking
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup chicken stock
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
- 2 cups spinach
To Serve
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry using paper towels. Season both sides evenly with salt and black pepper, then lightly dust each piece with flour to ensure a crisp and golden crust during cooking.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat and add unsalted butter and olive oil. Once melted and hot, add the floured chicken thighs. Cook each side for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes until fragrant, ensuring it doesn’t burn as this builds the flavor base for the sauce.
- Create the Sauce Base: Pour in the chicken stock and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to meld the flavors and begin reducing the sauce.
- Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Simmer: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Return the chicken thighs to the skillet and allow them to simmer gently for 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the sauce has thickened nicely.
- Incorporate Spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet, stirring until it wilts and is fully incorporated into the creamy sauce.
- Serve: Plate the chicken thighs topped with the rich sauce, then garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for added aroma and flavor.
Notes
- For crispier chicken skin, make sure the chicken is thoroughly dried before seasoning and flouring.
- If sun-dried tomatoes are packed in oil, drain them before chopping to avoid thinning the sauce.
- The dish pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce.
- You can substitute spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a different green vegetable option.
- Make sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian