Asado Chicken Breast with Sautéed Garlic Spinach Recipe

Prepare to meet your new weeknight hero: Asado Chicken Breast with Sautéed Garlic Spinach. This dish takes juicy chicken breasts and blankets them in a Latin-inspired asado marinade bursting with smoky paprika, tangy apple cider vinegar, and the subtle sweetness of brown sugar. Paired with garlicky spinach that cooks in under five minutes, it’s the kind of meal you’ll return to again and again for its bold flavors and satisfying simplicity. Whether you’re trying to eat a bit lighter or just want something exciting in your dinner repertoire, Asado Chicken Breast with Sautéed Garlic Spinach makes healthy cooking downright irresistible.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for Asado Chicken Breast with Sautéed Garlic Spinach is a breeze—and it’s worth it! Each one brings something special to the party, whether it’s depth of flavor, a pop of color, or that crave-worthy aroma that fills your kitchen.

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless, they cook quickly and soak up every bit of the tangy asado marinade.
• Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps the marinade cling to the chicken while also sautéing the spinach to glossy perfection.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Brightens the marinade and helps tenderize the chicken breasts.
• Soy Sauce: Lends a savory, umami backbone that balances the dish.
• Brown Sugar: A touch of sweetness enhances the smoky, spicy flavors and adds a beautiful caramelized finish.
• Tomato Paste: Concentrates the savoriness, boosting color and body in the marinade.
• Smoked Paprika: Essential for that signature asado smokiness!
• Ground Cumin: Adds warm, earthy notes that make the whole dish pop.
• Dried Oregano: Brings a subtly herbal touch to round everything out.
• Salt & Pepper: Don’t forget these basics! They keep all the other flavors in balance.
• Garlic (for Chicken & Spinach): Minced for the chicken and thinly sliced for the spinach, garlic is the aromatic star here.
• Fresh Baby Spinach: Tender and vibrant, this wilts down quickly but stays packed with flavor and nutrients.
• Lemon Juice (optional): A squeeze right before serving brightens the greens and lifts the whole dish.

How to Make Asado Chicken Breast with Sautéed Garlic Spinach

Step 1: Whisk Together the Asado Marinade

Begin by combining olive oil, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, tomato paste, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, and minced garlic in a large bowl. Whisk until smooth and glossy—the mixture should smell absolutely amazing! This flavorful bath is what transforms everyday chicken breasts into a crave-worthy centerpiece.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add your chicken breasts to the bowl, turning to fully coat each piece in the luscious marinade. Let them soak up those robust flavors for at least 30 minutes, or pop everything in the fridge for up to four hours if you’re planning ahead. The longer the chicken chills in the marinade, the juicier and more flavorful it becomes.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, swirling in a splash of oil if needed. Gently lay the marinated chicken breasts in the hot pan. Sear for five to six minutes per side, leaving enough space so they brown beautifully and stay juicy inside. You’ll know they’re ready when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest—this helps keep every bite moist.

Step 4: Sauté the Garlic Spinach

In the same skillet (for maximum flavor), lower the heat and add a bit more olive oil. Toss in the sliced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn. Pile in the fresh spinach and toss until just wilted, which only takes two to three minutes. Season with a pinch of salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice if you like—a citrusy finish makes it irresistible.

Step 5: Plate and Serve

Arrange a generous portion of Sautéed Garlic Spinach next to each beautifully browned chicken breast. Spoon any extra juices from the skillet over the top for even more flavor. Take a moment to admire your Asado Chicken Breast with Sautéed Garlic Spinach—dinner is served!

How to Serve Asado Chicken Breast with Sautéed Garlic Spinach

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro brings color and a burst of freshness to your Asado Chicken Breast with Sautéed Garlic Spinach. A final zest of lemon or a few cranks of black pepper can also make the flavors absolutely sing.

Side Dishes

While the chicken and spinach are perfectly satisfying on their own, they’re fantastic with simple rice, fluffy quinoa, or crispy roasted potatoes. These sides soak up the asado sauce and turn your meal into an effortless feast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, slice the chicken breasts on the bias and fan them over a bed of the sautéed garlic spinach. Or try serving everything family-style from a big platter—let everyone help themselves for a fun, convivial vibe. Asado Chicken Breast with Sautéed Garlic Spinach is also wonderful tucked into a warm pita or layered on top of a grain bowl for a twist!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, simply let your Asado Chicken Breast with Sautéed Garlic Spinach cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to develop overnight, making leftovers just as good (if not better) the next day!

Freezing

To freeze, place cooled chicken breasts (and spinach, separately, if possible) in airtight bags or containers. They’ll keep beautifully in the freezer for up to two months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

For the juiciest results, reheat chicken gently in a covered skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth. The spinach can be warmed in the microwave or skillet for just a minute. This helps preserve both flavor and texture so your Asado Chicken Breast with Sautéed Garlic Spinach tastes fresh and fabulous.

FAQs

Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-searing?

Absolutely! Grilling your Asado Chicken Breast with Sautéed Garlic Spinach adds a lovely smoky flavor and gorgeous grill marks. Follow the same marinating process, then cook the chicken over medium-high grill heat until it hits 165°F internally.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The best way is to use a meat thermometer; your chicken is done when it reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part. If you’re without a thermometer, check that the juices run clear and the flesh is no longer pink.

Can I use frozen spinach for the sautéed garlic spinach?

You can! Just thaw and squeeze out moisture before sautéing. Fresh spinach gives the best color and texture, but frozen works in a pinch for your Asado Chicken Breast with Sautéed Garlic Spinach.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, Asado Chicken Breast with Sautéed Garlic Spinach is naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for a variety of diets.

What if I want the marinade a little spicier?

Go for it! Add a pinch of chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce to your asado marinade for extra heat. The flavors of Asado Chicken Breast with Sautéed Garlic Spinach balance spice beautifully.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dinner that’s vibrant, nourishing, and bursting with flavor, you truly can’t go wrong with Asado Chicken Breast with Sautéed Garlic Spinach. Give it a try, share it with friends or family, and watch it become an instant favorite at your table!

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