If you’re craving a meal that’s bursting with bold flavors and vibrant colors, look no further than the Asado Chicken Breast with Sautéed Garlic Spinach Recipe. This dish brings together perfectly seasoned, juicy chicken breasts marinated in a lively blend of spices and zesty lime, paired with tender spinach infused with the fragrant warmth of garlic. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together in harmony to create an unforgettable weeknight dinner or a special occasion entrée that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Asado Chicken Breast with Sautéed Garlic Spinach Recipe relies on straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in crafting the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and color on your plate. From vibrant spices to fresh greens, every element adds something special.
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: The lean, tender protein base that soaks up the marinade beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps the chicken cook evenly with a golden crust.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice: Brings bright acidity that tenderizes and lifts the flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic minced: Infuses the marinade with deep, aromatic notes.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Offers a warm, earthy complexity classic to asado flavors.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds smoky sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Lends an herbal touch that rounds out the spice blend.
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder: Provides a gentle kick without overwhelming heat.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Delivers subtle warmth and sharpness.
- 1 pound fresh spinach, washed and dried: The lively green base for the sautéed garlic side, packed with nutrients.
- 2 additional cloves garlic, thinly sliced: Sautéed until fragrant to complement the spinach perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for spinach: Helps the garlic infuse the spinach with savory flavor.
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional): Adds richness and a silky finish to the sautéed spinach.
How to Make Asado Chicken Breast with Sautéed Garlic Spinach Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade and Marinate the Chicken
Start by mixing the olive oil, fresh lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, oregano, chili powder, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. This marinade is the heart of your Asado Chicken Breast with Sautéed Garlic Spinach Recipe. Coat each chicken breast thoroughly with this mixture, allowing the zesty and spicy flavors to seep in for at least 20 minutes. For a richer flavor, marinate it for up to 12 hours in the fridge—it’s worth the wait!
Step 2: Cook the Chicken to Perfection
Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat until hot and drizzle a little oil if necessary. Place your marinated chicken breasts onto the pan, cooking for 6 to 7 minutes on each side. You’ll want to see a gorgeous golden-brown crust before flipping. The internal temperature should hit 165°F to ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked and juicy. Then, remove the chicken from heat and let it rest—this step keeps all those savory juices locked inside.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic Spinach
Using the same pan or a clean skillet, warm the olive oil and optional butter over medium heat. Toss in the sliced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until the aroma fills your kitchen; this gentle cooking prevents the garlic from burning but allows its flavor to blossom. Add the fresh spinach and keep it moving in the pan until it just wilts, about 2 to 3 minutes. A light sprinkle of salt finishes your sauté, enhancing the spinach’s natural sweetness and the garlic’s punch.
How to Serve Asado Chicken Breast with Sautéed Garlic Spinach Recipe
Garnishes
To add a bright finishing touch to your Asado Chicken Breast with Sautéed Garlic Spinach Recipe, consider sprinkling fresh chopped cilantro or parsley on top. A wedge of lime on the side invites guests to squeeze extra tang, elevating the dish with a zesty zing that complements the spices perfectly.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs beautifully with simple sides such as fluffy white rice, nutty quinoa, or crispy roasted potatoes. Each side adds a new texture and absorbs the savory juices of the chicken, creating a hearty, satisfying meal that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive presentation, slice the chicken breasts diagonally and lay them across a bed of garlic spinach on a large platter. Drizzle extra marinade or a light chimichurri sauce over the top to add color and boldness. Serving family-style encourages sharing and brings warmth to your dining table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers of this scrumptious Asado Chicken Breast with Sautéed Garlic Spinach Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the chicken juicy and the spinach fresh enough to enjoy again without sacrificing flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked chicken breasts plain or with the sautéed spinach. For best results, wrap tightly with plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen properly, the components will keep their quality for up to 2 months. Remember to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat or in a microwave at medium power to prevent drying out the chicken. Adding a splash of water or chicken broth can help revive moisture, while tossing the spinach lightly ensures it doesn’t lose its lovely tenderness.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative if you prefer darker meat with more fat. Just adjust your cooking time accordingly, as thighs generally take a bit longer to cook through.
How long can I marinate the chicken for this recipe?
While the recipe suggests at least 20 minutes, marinating for up to 12 hours in the fridge will deepen the flavors dramatically without compromising texture.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients in this Asado Chicken Breast with Sautéed Garlic Spinach Recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent choice for those avoiding gluten.
Can I prepare the spinach in advance?
You can wash and dry the spinach ahead of time, but for the best taste and texture, sauté the spinach just before serving. Pre-cooked spinach tends to lose its vibrant color and texture quickly.
What can I substitute for fresh lime juice if I don’t have any?
If fresh lime juice is not available, fresh lemon juice is the best substitute as it provides a similar acidity and brightness. Bottled lime juice can work in a pinch, but fresh is always best for flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Asado Chicken Breast with Sautéed Garlic Spinach Recipe is a treasure trove of flavor and nutrition wrapped in one delicious plate. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply treating yourself, it’s a dish that promises satisfaction with every bite. So grab those fresh ingredients, and let this recipe become your new favorite weeknight superstar. Happy cooking!
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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 American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Asado Chicken Breast with Sautéed Garlic Spinach is a flavorful and healthy Latin American-inspired meal. Tender chicken breasts are marinated in a zesty blend of lime juice, garlic, and spices, then cooked to juicy perfection on the stovetop. Served alongside lightly sautéed garlic spinach, this dish offers a nutritious balance of protein and greens, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Sautéed Garlic Spinach
- 1 pound fresh spinach, washed and dried
- 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional)
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, dried oregano, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create the marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Coat the chicken breasts evenly with the marinade. Let them rest for at least 20 minutes to absorb the flavors; for deeper flavor, marinate up to 12 hours in the refrigerator.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Place the marinated chicken breasts in the pan and cook for 6 to 7 minutes per side until they are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest briefly to retain juices.
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same or a separate skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Cook the Spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet with garlic. Toss frequently and cook until just wilted, about 2 to 3 minutes. Season lightly with salt to taste.
- Serve: Plate the cooked asado chicken breasts alongside or over the sautéed garlic spinach for a delicious and balanced meal.
Notes
- Chicken can be marinated up to 12 hours for deeper flavor.
- This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or roasted potatoes for a complete meal.
- Use chicken thighs if preferred, adjusting cooking time as needed to ensure they are fully cooked.
