Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Seasonings Start by creating your spice mix. In a small bowl, combine the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.

Next, prepare your chicken by patting it dry with paper towels (this helps achieve a golden crust when searing). Slice the chicken breasts horizontally to create 4 thinner cutlets of even thickness. This allows for quicker, more even cooking.

Season both sides of each chicken cutlet generously with your spice mixture, pressing the spices gently into the meat to help them adhere.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers (indicating it’s hot enough), carefully place the seasoned chicken cutlets in the pan. Cook for about 4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your cutlets.

Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will cause the chicken to steam rather than sear. If necessary, cook in batches. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can create a bitter taste.

The residual bits from cooking the chicken (called fond) will begin to lift from the bottom of the pan. These browned bits are packed with flavor and will form the base of our delicious sauce.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Dijon Sauce Pour in the chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up all the flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Add the Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce, stirring to combine.

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then stir in the heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce begins to thicken slightly, about 5 minutes.

Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste, remembering that both the chicken and cheese already contain salt. The sauce should be creamy, tangy, and well-balanced.

Step 5: Add Greens and Finish the Dish Add the spinach to the skillet and stir until it wilts, which should only take a minute or two. The fresh greens add color, nutrients, and a pleasant contrast to the rich sauce.

Return the chicken cutlets to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Allow everything to heat through for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring the chicken is hot and coated with the delicious sauce.

Serve immediately, garnished with additional parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if desired.