Spinach with chicken

Spinach with Chicken on a Polenta Bed

Total preparation time: 40 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Introduction

Who doesn’t love a warm, flavorful, and colorful meal? Spinach with chicken is a recipe that brings together the simple and healthy flavors of fresh ingredients, offering a delicious and nutritious dish. This recipe, which combines the protein from chicken with the fiber and vitamins from spinach, is perfect for a quick dinner as well as for comforting lunches. And polenta, a staple food, perfectly complements this dish, adding extra texture and flavor.

Your basic ingredients

- 500 g chicken breast (chopped)
- 400 g fresh or frozen spinach
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 400 g canned tomatoes (or fresh if you prefer)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 300 g cornmeal (for polenta)
- 1 liter of water (for polenta)

Prepare your ingredients!

Before you start, make sure you have all the ingredients prepared and at hand. This will not only make your cooking more efficient but will also help you enjoy the process. If you are using frozen spinach, don’t forget to let it thaw a few hours beforehand. If you opt for fresh spinach, wash it well to remove any impurities.

Step 1: Preparing the chicken

Start by chopping the chicken into small cubes. This will help the meat cook evenly. In a large skillet, add the two tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until golden and fragrant. This is when the garlic will release its aroma, giving the dish a distinct note.

Step 2: Cooking the chicken

Add the chicken to the skillet and let it cook for about 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Make sure the chicken breast is well cooked and no longer pink. If you like, you can add a little salt and pepper to season the meat while cooking.

Step 3: Adding the spinach

Once the chicken is cooked, it’s time to add the spinach. If you are using fresh spinach, it may seem like a lot at first, but it will reduce significantly in volume. Stir well and let everything sauté for 15 minutes. If you are using frozen spinach, make sure it has completely thawed and has been drained of excess water before adding it to the skillet.

Step 4: Enriching the dish with tomatoes

When the spinach and chicken are well mixed, add the canned tomatoes (or fresh if you prefer) blended with salt and pepper. Let the dish cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step will add a pleasant acidity and rich texture, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

Step 5: Preparing the polenta

While the spinach and chicken dish is on the stove, it’s the perfect time to prepare the polenta. In another pot, bring 1 liter of water to a boil. When the water is boiling, add a pinch of salt and gradually the cornmeal, stirring constantly with a whisk to avoid lumps. Reduce the heat to low and continue stirring for about 10-15 minutes until the polenta becomes creamy and pulls away from the sides of the pot.

Serving and presentation suggestions

To serve, place a generous layer of polenta on a plate, then add the spinach and chicken mixture on top. You can garnish with a few fresh parsley leaves or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor. This meal can be accompanied by a simple green salad or a tomato salad to add a fresh contrast.

Useful tips and variations

- If you want to add a bit of flavor, try adding a few slices of hot pepper during cooking.
- You can experiment with different types of meat, such as turkey, or even vegetarian options using tofu or mushrooms.
- Another delicious variation would include adding feta cheese or parmesan on top for a more intense flavor.

Nutritional benefits and calories

Spinach is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, while chicken provides quality protein. This recipe is also rich in fiber and antioxidants, making it a good choice for a balanced meal. A serving of spinach with chicken on a polenta bed contains about 450 calories, making it a healthy choice for lunch or dinner.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, frozen spinach is an excellent option and can be used instead of fresh. Just make sure to thaw it and drain the excess water.

2. Is polenta necessary?
No, but polenta perfectly complements this dish. You can serve the spinach with chicken with rice or pasta if you prefer.

3. Can I prepare the recipe in advance?
Absolutely! The spinach with chicken dish can be cooked a day ahead and kept in the fridge. Reheat it on the stove or in the oven before serving.

I hope you try this wonderful recipe for spinach with chicken and that it becomes one of your favorites. Cooking is an art, and every meal is an opportunity to bring joy to the lives of your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!