When the winter wind blows, you need a meal that feels like a hug. This High Protein Smoked Paprika Chicken is exactly that. It is warm, smoky, and wonderfully filling for your whole family.
You don’t need hours in the kitchen to eat well tonight. This recipe delivers big flavors with very little effort. It is the perfect way to fuel your body during a busy week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is a total winner for anyone starting a healthy reset. You get all the creaminess of a decadent meal without the heavy cream. We use Greek yogurt to keep things light and high in protein.
It is ready in just 35 minutes from start to finish. This makes it a reliable weeknight staple for your rotation. Your kitchen will smell amazing thanks to the aromatic smoked paprika.
Simple Cooking Method
Making this meal is truly straightforward and stress-free. You simply sear the seasoned chicken until it is golden and juicy. The spinach wilts down in the same pan to save on cleanup.
Even if you are a beginner, you can master this technique. The secret is keeping the heat low when adding the yogurt. This ensures your sauce stays silky and smooth every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple ingredients are likely already in your kitchen or easy to find.
- 200g boneless skinless chicken breast
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 200g fresh baby spinach
- 80g plain non-fat Greek yogurt
- 20g grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 pinch ground nutmeg
Step-by-Step Directions
- Pat the chicken breast dry and season both sides with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat.
- Place chicken in the skillet and cook for 6 to 8 minutes per side.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F, then remove and rest for 5 minutes.
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until aromatic.
- Add baby spinach to the pan and cook until fully wilted.
- Reduce heat to low and fold in the Greek yogurt, Parmesan cheese, and nutmeg.
- Stir the spinach mixture until creamy, ensuring the yogurt does not boil.
- Slice the chicken and serve immediately with the creamed spinach.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this warm in a shallow bowl for a cozy winter night. The bright green spinach looks beautiful against the golden, smoky chicken. It is a feast for your eyes and your appetite.
Pair it with roasted cauliflower or a simple side of quinoa. You can also pack leftovers into containers for easy weekday lunches. It stays delicious and satisfying even the next day.
Keep It Fresh
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to three days. This makes it a great meal prep option for busy people.
When reheating, use a low heat setting on your stove. Add a splash of water if the spinach looks too thick. This helps maintain that tender and creamy texture you love.
Tips for Best Results
- Pat the chicken very dry to get a perfect golden crust.
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking the breast.
- Don’t let the yogurt boil or it might separate and curdle.
- Swap fresh spinach for kale if you want more texture.
- Use smoked paprika rather than sweet for a deeper flavor.
- Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep the juices inside.
- Add the nutmeg at the very end for the best aroma.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Add red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little spicy kick.
- Try using turkey breast for a different lean protein option.
- Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of Mediterranean flavor.
- Use dairy-free Greek-style yogurt to make it lactose-free.
Common Questions
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach if you thaw it first. Be sure to squeeze out all the excess water very well. This prevents your creamy sauce from becoming too runny.
Why did my yogurt sauce curdle?
Yogurt curdles when it gets too hot too quickly. Always turn the heat to low before stirring it in. Gentle warming is the key to a smooth consistency.
I hope this warm, high-protein meal brings a little extra comfort to your table this week. It is proof that eating healthy can be simple and truly delicious. Enjoy every bite!
— Katie Wood
High Protein Smoked Paprika Chicken with Creamed Spinach
Ingredients
- 200 g boneless skinless chicken breast
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp sal t
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 200 g fresh baby spinach
- 80 g plain non-fat Greek yogurt
- 20 g grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic , minced
- 1 pinch ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Pat the chicken breast dry and season both sides evenly with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat.
- Place chicken in the skillet and cook for approximately 6 to 8 minutes per side, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove and rest for 5 minutes.
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until aromatic.
- Add baby spinach to the pan and cook until fully wilted, approximately 2 to 3 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and fold in the Greek yogurt, Parmesan cheese, and nutmeg.
- Stir the spinach mixture until a creamy consistency is achieved, ensuring the yogurt does not boil.
- Slice the chicken and serve immediately with the creamed spinach.
