Creamy Spinach Artichoke Chicken Skillet (Paleo, Whole30, Keto)

Name: Creamy Spinach Artichoke Chicken Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Paleo
Ingredients: 4 small-medium boneless skinless chicken breasts (or 2 large halved); 1 tablespoon basil; 1 tablespoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon sea salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons ghee (or olive oil); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 yellow onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup chicken broth; 1 can (13.5 ounces) unsweetened full-fat coconut milk; Juice from 1/2 lemon; 1 tablespoon arrowroot starch; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 can (14 ounces) quartered artichoke hearts, drained and chopped; 2 cups packed spinach; Red pepper flakes (for garnish)

By: John.Morgan35 | Published onFebruary 3, 2026

Creamy Spinach Artichoke Chicken Skillet served in a cast iron pan

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Introducing a Flavorful Delight

If you’re searching for a dish that beautifully balances comfort and health, look no further than this Creamy Spinach Artichoke Chicken Skillet. This recipe is not just another chicken dish; it brings the creamy richness of artichokes and spinach together with tender chicken for a meal that feels indulgent without the guilt. Whether it’s a busy weekday dinner or a special family gathering, this is one pot dish that’s sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

What makes this Creamy Spinach Artichoke Chicken Skillet a must-try? For starters, it’s incredibly quick to whip up, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish—perfect for weeknight dinners when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. It’s also Paleo, Whole30, and Keto-friendly, catering to a variety of dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. Plus, who can resist that creamy coconut milk sauce that clings to juicy chicken, all while being packed with nutrient-rich spinach and artichokes?

"This dish is a game changer! Hearty and creamy without the extra carbs. My whole family loved it!" — Emily T.

Preparing Creamy Spinach Artichoke Chicken Skillet (Paleo, Whole30, Keto)

Making this delightful dish is straightforward, even for novice cooks. You’ll be sautéing chicken to a perfect golden brown, then creating a luscious sauce infused with garlic, coconut milk, and citrus. The artichoke hearts and spinach add a beautiful burst of color and nutrition. Here’s a quick rundown of the cooking process: season, sauté, simmer, and serve! Your taste buds are in for a treat.

Gather These Items

For a meal that’s both delicious and nutritious, here’s what you’ll need:

4 small-medium boneless skinless chicken breasts or 2 large halved
1 tablespoon basil
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons ghee (or olive oil)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 yellow onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup chicken broth
1 can (13.5 ounces) unsweetened full-fat coconut milk (Thai Kitchen Coconut Milk is recommended)
Juice from 1/2 lemon
1 tablespoon arrowroot starch
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 can (14 ounces) quartered artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
2 cups packed spinach
Red pepper flakes (for garnish)

Feel free to swap ghee for olive oil if that’s your preference, and consider using fresh spinach for an even fresher taste.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Season the chicken breasts on both sides with basil, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper.
Heat ghee (or olive oil) in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chicken breast for 6-8 minutes on each side until cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
In the same skillet, melt more ghee (if needed) over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in chicken broth, coconut milk, lemon juice, arrowroot starch, salt, and pepper. Whisk to combine and simmer for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
Lower the heat and stir in artichoke hearts and spinach. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over it.
Garnish with red pepper flakes and serve hot.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

This Creamy Spinach Artichoke Chicken Skillet is versatile! Serve it over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option or pair it with a crisp side salad for a refreshing contrast. It also goes well with roasted vegetables or zucchini noodles, turning your meal into a colorful and wholesome platter. For an extra touch of flavor, a sprinkle of fresh herbs or lemon zest can brighten up the dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, storing this dish is a breeze! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in individual portions. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop or microwave until heated through. If the sauce thickens too much after refrigeration, add a splash of chicken broth or coconut milk to loosen it up.

Helpful Cooking Tips

For extra flavor, try marinating the chicken in the seasoning mix for a few hours before cooking.
Adjust the thickness of your sauce by adding more or less arrowroot starch, depending on your preference.
To prevent burning, ensure your heat isn’t too high while sautéing garlic and onions; they can quickly turn bitter.

Creative Twists

Looking to mix things up? Experiment with different greens like kale or collard greens instead of spinach for a more robust flavor. If you love a kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce. You can also switch up the protein and use shrimp or turkey instead of chicken!

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to make this recipe?
- The total cooking time is around 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
Can I substitute chicken with another protein?
- Absolutely! Shrimp or turkey can be great alternatives for this creamy dish.
What is the best coconut milk to use?
- Thai Kitchen’s unsweetened full-fat coconut milk is highly recommended for its creamy texture and rich flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
- Yes! It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days, and you can freeze leftovers too.
What should I serve with this?
- Serve it with cauliflower rice, salads, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
How do I make it dairy-free?
- This recipe is naturally dairy-free, thanks to the coconut milk. Just ensure all other ingredients are labeled dairy-free if you’re strict!
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
- Yes, fresh spinach works beautifully in this dish. Just toss it in towards the end to wilt slightly.
What if I want to make this spicier?
- Adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños can boost the heat level to your liking.

Now, take the plunge and delight in the flavorful experience of this Creamy Spinach Artichoke Chicken Skillet! You surely won’t regret adding this to your weekly dinner rotation.