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- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 small onion, finely chopped - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 cup Arborio rice (or long-grain rice) - 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth - 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded - 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

One-Skillet Cheesy Chicken and Spinach Rice

Discover the simplicity and flavor of One-Skillet Cheesy Chicken and Spinach Rice, the perfect recipe for busy weeknights! This convenient dish features tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and creamy cheeses, all cooked together with Arborio rice for a comforting meal. Enjoy a nutritious dinner with minimal cleanup, making it easy to gather the family around the table. Try this recipe to create a delightful, home-cooked experience that everyone will love!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup Arborio rice (or long-grain rice)

4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

2 cups fresh baby spinach, chopped

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Sauté Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the bite-sized chicken pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is nicely browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

    Cook Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the diced onion. Sauté for approximately 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for an additional minute until fragrant, being cautious not to burn the garlic.

      Add Rice: Pour in the Arborio rice, stirring well to coat it in the oil. Allow the rice to toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until it becomes slightly translucent at the edges.

        Combine Ingredients: Carefully pour the chicken broth into the skillet and stir in the Italian seasoning. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid has been absorbed by the rice.

          Add Spinach and Chicken: Add the chopped spinach, halved cherry tomatoes, and the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Gently mix everything together. Cover the skillet again and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt and all the flavors to meld.

            Add Cheeses: Remove the skillet from the heat. Evenly sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the rice and chicken mixture. Cover the skillet once more and let it sit for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and gooey.

              Serve: If desired, garnish your delicious dish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve hot directly from the skillet, allowing everyone to enjoy the cheesy goodness with every hearty bite!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4