Asado Chicken Breasts with Sautéed Garlic Spinach is a vibrant and flavorful meal that combines tender, spice-rubbed chicken with fresh, garlicky greens. The bold seasoning of the chicken brings out smoky, savory notes that pair beautifully with the subtle earthiness of wilted spinach.
This dish is perfect for those who want a healthy yet satisfying dinner option. It’s low-carb, packed with protein, and easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress with its simplicity and delicious flavor.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Spinach:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups fresh spinach
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, ground cumin, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and evenly coat them with the spice mixture.
- Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- While the chicken is baking, prepare the sautéed spinach. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add fresh spinach to the skillet and toss until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve the chicken breasts alongside the sautéed garlic spinach, and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
History and Inspiration Behind the Recipe
The term “asado” originates from Latin America, where it traditionally refers to grilled or barbecued meats prepared with bold, smoky flavors. This recipe takes inspiration from asado seasoning but adapts it for a simple stovetop and oven preparation, making it accessible to home cooks. The spice rub used here is reminiscent of classic Latin flavors, featuring smoked paprika, cumin, and oregano, which evoke the rich, earthy taste of an authentic asado. By pairing the chicken with sautéed garlic spinach, this dish becomes a healthy and balanced meal that celebrates bold flavors without the need for heavy sauces.
Cooking Tips and Variations
- For Juicier Chicken Breasts: If you have time, brine the chicken breasts in a saltwater solution for 30 minutes before applying the spice rub. This helps retain moisture during cooking.
- Alternative Cooking Methods: While this recipe uses an oven-safe skillet, you can grill the chicken on an outdoor barbecue or a stovetop grill pan for an extra smoky flavor.
- Make It Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free, but you can add a squeeze of lemon or a drizzle of olive oil over the spinach for a fresh, tangy finish.
- Add More Veggies: If you’d like to bulk up the meal, add sliced mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers to the spinach as it cooks.
- Meal Prep Idea: Cook the chicken breasts and spinach ahead of time and store them in separate airtight containers. This makes a great grab-and-go meal for busy days.
Nutritional Benefits
This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients:
- Chicken Breasts: High in protein, low in fat, and an excellent source of essential amino acids.
- Spinach: Rich in iron, vitamin K, and antioxidants, spinach helps support bone health, immune function, and overall vitality.
- Garlic: Known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties, garlic enhances both the flavor and the nutritional profile of the dish.
Serving Suggestions
- Low-Carb Option: Serve the chicken and spinach on their own for a light, low-carb meal.
- Hearty Side Pairing: Pair with roasted sweet potatoes, mashed cauliflower, or quinoa to round out the meal.
- Quick Salad Addition: Slice the chicken and toss it with spinach, arugula, cherry tomatoes, and avocado for a flavorful salad.
How to Store and Reheat
- Storing: Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through. For the spinach, gently reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or olive oil to prevent it from drying out.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With only a few basic steps, this recipe is perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike.
- Healthy and Balanced: High in protein and packed with vitamins, it’s a wholesome meal that fits various diets, including low-carb and gluten-free.
- Versatile: The asado spice rub can be used on other proteins like shrimp, tofu, or even pork, making it a great all-purpose seasoning to have in your kitchen.
Cultural Significance and Origins
The recipe draws its flavors from traditional Latin American cooking, where “asado” refers to grilling or roasting meats seasoned with robust spices like paprika, cumin, and oregano. While the traditional asado involves open-flame grilling, this recipe simplifies the process for home kitchens while retaining the essence of the smoky, earthy flavors characteristic of Latin cuisine. It’s a modern take that blends tradition with convenience.
Flavor Profile
This dish offers a bold yet balanced flavor profile:
- The asado spice rub provides a smoky, slightly spicy, and aromatic base for the chicken.
- The sautéed garlic spinach brings a fresh, earthy contrast with subtle notes of sweetness and the unmistakable richness of garlic.
The combination of these flavors makes the dish satisfying, comforting, and perfect for any occasion.
Why This Recipe Works
- Quick and Easy: The recipe uses a straightforward cooking method that’s perfect for weeknights but elegant enough for entertaining guests.
- Healthy and Nutrient-Dense: Packed with lean protein from the chicken and essential vitamins and minerals from the spinach, this meal is as nutritious as it is delicious.
- Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor: With pantry staples and fresh spinach, you can create a dish bursting with flavor in under 40 minutes.
Kitchen Tips for Success
- Perfect Searing: For a beautifully golden crust on the chicken, make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken breasts.
- Spinach Preparation: Wash the spinach thoroughly and pat it dry to prevent excess water from diluting the garlic flavors.
- Rest the Chicken: After baking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to lock in its juices.
Recipe Pairings
Here are some complementary sides and beverages to elevate your meal:
- Sides: Garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a quinoa salad.
- Beverages: Pair with a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing lemonade for a non-alcoholic option.
Dietary Modifications
- Keto-Friendly: This recipe is naturally low-carb, making it a perfect fit for keto or low-carb diets.
- Dairy-Free: No adjustments are needed, as the recipe doesn’t include dairy.
- Gluten-Free: The spices used are gluten-free, ensuring the dish works for those with gluten sensitivities.
Presentation Ideas
Make the dish visually appealing by:
- Slicing the chicken breasts on a bias and fanning them out over a bed of spinach.
- Garnishing with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for color.
- Serving in a rustic cast-iron skillet for a farmhouse-style presentation.
Leftover Ideas
If you have leftovers, don’t let them go to waste! Here are some creative ways to repurpose this dish:
- Chicken Wraps: Shred the chicken and wrap it in a tortilla with spinach, avocado, and a dollop of Greek yogurt.
- Power Bowl: Combine the chicken and spinach with quinoa, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a hearty bowl meal.
- Breakfast: Chop the chicken and spinach and use them as a filling for an omelet or a breakfast burrito.
Fun Fact
Spinach, the sidekick in this recipe, has a long history as a “superfood.” It was popularized in the U.S. by Popeye, the iconic cartoon sailor, who claimed spinach gave him super strength. Though it might not make you instantly strong, its iron content and antioxidants are certainly a health boost.
Conclusion
The Asado Chicken Breasts with Sautéed Garlic Spinach is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions. Packed with bold spices and fresh greens, it’s a healthy, versatile meal that suits various dietary needs. Quick to prepare and full of vibrant flavors, this recipe is sure to become a favorite at your table. Give it a try and enjoy a wholesome, delicious dinner!