Chicken breast with spinach and oranges

Chicken Breast with Spinach and Oranges – A Unique Culinary Experience

Who would have thought that a combination of chicken breast, spinach, and oranges could create such a flavorful and colorful dish? This recipe is perfect for an elegant dinner or to impress guests. Additionally, it’s a great way to add vitamins and nutrients to your diet. I will guide you step by step in making this delicious dish, which will not only delight your taste buds but also look spectacular on the plate.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 4 chicken breast fillets (approximately 600g)
- 500g fresh spinach
- 100g butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 oranges (2 for juice and 2 for slicing)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe History:

This recipe combines Mediterranean influences with traditional cuisine, creating a dish that is not only healthy but also very aesthetically pleasing. Chicken is an excellent source of protein, and spinach provides substantial iron and vitamins. The oranges, with their fresh aroma and juice, perfectly complement this dish, transforming it into a symphony of flavors.

Step-by-Step Preparation:

1. Preparing the Chicken Breast:
- Wash the chicken breast fillets under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Season each fillet with salt and pepper, making sure all sides are evenly coated.
- Brush each fillet with olive oil, which will help achieve a delicious and juicy crust.

2. Cooking the Chicken Breast:
- Heat a grill pan or a regular pan over medium heat. You can check if the pan is ready by dropping a drop of water: if it sizzles, it’s time to add the chicken.
- Place the chicken fillets in the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. It’s important not to overcook them, or they will become dry.

3. Preparing the Spinach:
- While the chicken breast is cooking, wash the spinach under cold water, ensuring that you remove any impurities.
- Place the spinach in a pot with 2-3 tablespoons of water, cover with a lid, and let it steam for 5-10 minutes over low heat. The spinach is ready when it has wilted and reduced in volume.
- Drain the spinach and transfer it to a pan where you have melted 100g of butter. Sauté for 5 minutes, adding salt and pepper to taste. Finally, extinguish the heat with the juice from two oranges, letting the dish soak in the citrus flavors.

4. Assembling the Dish:
- Slice the other two oranges into thin rounds. Arrange the orange slices on four plates, forming an attractive base.
- Place a chicken fillet on top of each portion, followed by generous servings of sautéed spinach. This presentation not only looks good but also harmoniously combines all the flavors.

Practical Tips:

- Choose fresh chicken: For better taste, use fresh, high-quality chicken breast. You can opt for organic chicken if you want to avoid additives.
- Spinach: Make sure the spinach is fresh, without yellowed leaves. Frozen spinach can be used, but it will require a shorter cooking time.
- How to avoid dry chicken: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should be 75 degrees Celsius.

Possible Variations:

- Add nuts: You can sprinkle some toasted nuts (e.g., almonds or pecans) on top of the spinach for added crunch.
- Enhance flavors: You can add some fresh herbs, such as basil or dill, to intensify the flavors.
- Vary the citrus: Instead of oranges, you can use grapefruit or lemon for a tangier note.

Delicious Combinations:

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or mashed potatoes as a side. A recommended drink to accompany this dish is a dry white wine, which will complement the citrus flavors of the dish.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:

A serving of this chicken breast with spinach and oranges contains approximately 400 calories, being rich in protein and vitamins. Spinach provides a significant amount of iron and vitamin K, while oranges are an excellent source of vitamin C, boosting the immune system.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use frozen spinach?
- Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before sautéing.

2. How can I make the chicken breast juicier?
- You can marinate it in a bit of yogurt with spices a few hours before cooking to improve its texture.

3. Can this recipe be prepared in advance?
- Yes, you can cook the chicken breast and spinach a few hours ahead and reheat them at serving time.

I hope this chicken breast with spinach and oranges recipe brings you joy in the kitchen and at the table! Enjoy your meal!