If you’re craving a dish that perfectly blends bold, smoky flavors with fresh, vibrant greens, the Asado Chicken Breast with Sautéed Garlic Spinach Recipe is your new go-to. This Latin-inspired meal features juicy chicken breasts marinated in a lively mix of smoked paprika, cumin, and zesty lemon juice, grilled to savory perfection, then paired with tender spinach sautéed in fragrant garlic and a touch of butter. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures and tastes that feels both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re preparing a weekday dinner or impressing friends, this recipe brings a healthy, low-carb feast that’s as colorful on the plate as it is on the palate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is wonderfully straightforward, using simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that pack a punch in flavor and nutrition. Each element has its role, whether to highlight the smoky asado seasoning or to create that silky, garlicky spinach that complements the chicken brilliantly.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein that soaks up the spicy, citrusy marinade for juicy results.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided: Used both in the marinade and for sautéing, adding richness and helping flavors meld.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced and divided: Fresh garlic lends that irresistible aroma and depth to both the chicken and spinach.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Provides bright acidity that tenderizes the chicken and lifts the dish.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds an umami boost and balances the citrus with subtle saltiness.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Brings that iconic smoky warmth essential to the asado flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Infuses a hint of earthy herbaceousness reminiscent of traditional Latin spices.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin: Delivers a gentle nutty complexity that complements the paprika.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors harmoniously.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds mild heat and aromatic spice.
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder: Offers a subtle kick without overpowering the dish.
- 8 cups fresh spinach leaves: The healthy, vibrant green side that balances the smoky chicken with freshness.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Enriches the garlic spinach with luscious, creamy undertones.
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional): A finishing touch that melts into the spinach for savory, cheesy goodness.
How to Make Asado Chicken Breast with Sautéed Garlic Spinach Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade and Marinate the Chicken
Start by whisking together 2 tablespoons olive oil, half of the minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, soy sauce, smoked paprika, oregano, cumin, salt, black pepper, and chili powder in a bowl. This vibrant marinade infuses the chicken with layers of smoky, tangy, and aromatic notes. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish and coat each piece evenly. Let them soak up these flavors for at least 20 minutes or, if you have more time, up to 4 hours in the refrigerator. This patience pays off with tender, flavorful meat.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat and lightly oil it if necessary to prevent sticking. Cook the chicken breasts for 6 to 7 minutes on each side, or until they’re cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. You’ll notice a beautiful char and smoky aroma developing as the marinade caramelizes. Once done, remove the chicken and let it rest for about 5 minutes to lock in those juicy flavors.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic Spinach
While the chicken is resting, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil along with the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the remaining garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant and golden but not burnt—this step fills your kitchen with an inviting aroma! Add the spinach leaves and cook, stirring frequently, until the leaves are just wilted, around 2 to 3 minutes. Season lightly with salt and pepper, then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if using. This simple preparation lets the fresh garlic and butter shine while perfectly complementing the robust chicken.
How to Serve Asado Chicken Breast with Sautéed Garlic Spinach Recipe
Garnishes
To bring even more flavor and an inviting appearance, consider garnishing the chicken with a wedge of lemon or a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley. A drizzle of good olive oil or a few red pepper flakes can add a slight kick and vibrant color contrast that makes the dish pop on the plate.
Side Dishes
This Asado Chicken Breast with Sautéed Garlic Spinach Recipe pairs beautifully with light, complementary sides. Fresh avocado slices or a simple quinoa salad add nutritious balance, while roasted sweet potatoes or grilled corn introduce sweet and smoky notes that amplify the Latin-inspired flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation, slice the chicken breasts and fan them out over the sautéed spinach on a warm platter. You can also serve the chicken on a bed of fluffy cauliflower rice or alongside zesty salsa verde for an extra burst of freshness. These options make the dish perfect for sharing or a special occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Asado Chicken Breast with Sautéed Garlic Spinach Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen over time, making for tasty next-day meals. Keep the spinach and chicken together or separated based on your preference for reheating.
Freezing
If you want to keep the convenience going, freeze cooked chicken breasts wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and keep the spinach in a separate freezer-safe container. Both freeze well for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the oven to avoid drying it out. The spinach can be warmed quickly in a pan or microwave. Adding a splash of olive oil or a small knob of butter during reheating helps refresh the flavors and keeps the dish moist and flavorful.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken breasts instead of boneless?
Yes, bone-in chicken breasts can be used, but they will require a longer cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked through. Adjust the grilling time accordingly and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Is it okay to substitute lime juice for lemon juice?
Absolutely! Lime juice offers a brighter, slightly more tart citrus note that works beautifully with the smoky spices in this recipe, giving it a fresh twist.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to keep the marinade gluten-free without sacrificing any flavor.
What if I don’t have fresh spinach? Can I use frozen spinach instead?
You can use frozen spinach, but be sure to thaw and drain it very well to avoid excess moisture in the sauté. Fresh spinach provides the best texture and flavor for this dish.
How spicy is the Asado Chicken Breast with Sautéed Garlic Spinach Recipe?
This recipe has a mild to moderate heat level, thanks to the chili powder and black pepper. You can easily adjust the spice by adding more chili powder or red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicier kick.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly satisfying about the combination of smoky, tangy chicken with the buttery, garlicky greens in the Asado Chicken Breast with Sautéed Garlic Spinach Recipe. It’s a low-carb, flavorful, and nutritious meal that feels both wholesome and indulgent—a definite keeper in your recipe collection. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a beloved part of your weeknight dinners!
Print
Asado Chicken Breast with Sautéed Garlic Spinach Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Latin-Inspired
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
This Asado Chicken Breast with Sautéed Garlic Spinach is a flavorful, low-carb main course featuring tender marinated chicken grilled to perfection and served alongside nutrient-packed spinach sautéed with garlic and a touch of Parmesan cheese. It’s a quick and healthy meal ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1.5 cloves garlic, minced (half of the total garlic)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
Sautéed Garlic Spinach
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1.5 cloves garlic, minced (remaining garlic)
- 8 cups fresh spinach leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons olive oil, half of the minced garlic, lemon juice, soy sauce, smoked paprika, oregano, cumin, salt, black pepper, and chili powder until well combined.
- Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish and coat evenly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes or up to 4 hours to allow flavors to infuse.
- Cook the chicken: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat and lightly oil if needed. Grill or cook the chicken breasts for 6 to 7 minutes per side, until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes to retain juices.
- Sauté the garlic: While the chicken rests, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the remaining minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook the spinach: Add the fresh spinach leaves to the skillet with garlic. Stir frequently and cook until wilted, about 2 to 3 minutes. Season lightly with salt and pepper to taste.
- Finish and serve: If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the sautéed spinach. Serve the grilled Asado chicken breasts alongside the flavorful garlic spinach for a delicious and balanced meal.
Notes
- Pound the chicken breasts to even thickness for uniform cooking and faster, more consistent results.
- Substitute lime juice in place of lemon juice for a brighter, more citrusy flavor twist.
- For extra heat and spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the spinach.
