Savory Crepes with Chicken and Spinach

Indulge in the rich flavors and delicate textures of savory crepes with chicken and spinach. This dish elegantly combines the soft, paper-thin crepes with a hearty filling of sautéed chicken and spinach, all wrapped in a light, flavorful sauce. Whether you’re preparing a special weekend brunch or a sophisticated dinner, these crepes promise to impress. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make this delightful dish, from ingredients to serving suggestions.

Ingredients

Creating the perfect savory crepes with chicken and spinach requires the right blend of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Crepes:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to craft a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Step 1: Prepare the Crepe Batter

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Whisk Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, water, and melted butter.
3. Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, whisking continuously until smooth. Let the batter rest for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Crepes

1. Heat the Pan: Place a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with oil or butter.
2. Pour the Batter: Pour about 1/4 cup of the batter into the skillet, tilting to spread evenly.
3. Cook the Crepes: Cook until the edges start to lift, about 1-2 minutes, then flip and cook for another minute. Repeat with the remaining batter.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

1. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken slices with salt and pepper, then sauté until cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté Garlic and Spinach: In the same skillet, add garlic and stir until fragrant. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
3. Combine Ingredients: Mix the cooked chicken, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and thyme with the spinach.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. Melt Butter: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add Flour: Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute.
3. Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Assemble the Crepes

1. Add Filling: Spoon a generous amount of the chicken and spinach mixture onto each crepe.
2. Fold Crepes: Fold the crepes over the filling and place them in a baking dish.
3. Top with Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the crepes.

Step 6: Bake and Serve

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake Crepes: Bake the crepes for 15-20 minutes, until heated through and the sauce is bubbly.
3. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and serve warm.

Nutrition Facts

Understanding the nutritional profile of your meal is crucial. Here’s a rough estimate of the nutrition facts per serving (yielding about 6 servings):

• Calories: 410
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g

How to Serve

Savory crepes filled with chicken and spinach are not only delicious but also remarkably versatile, making them an excellent choice for various occasions. Here’s an in-depth look at how to serve these delectable crepes to enhance your dining experience.

1. As a Main Dish

When serving savory crepes as a main dish, you can elevate the meal by thoughtfully pairing them with complementary sides:

• Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad can add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the crepes. Consider using a mix of leafy greens such as arugula, spinach, and romaine, topped with a light vinaigrette dressing. Ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and sliced radishes can add texture and flavor. For an extra layer of taste, sprinkle some feta cheese or toasted nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, over the salad.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables can enhance the dish’s overall appeal, contributing both taste and nutrition. Choose seasonal vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, and asparagus. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them in the oven until tender and caramelized. This not only offers a colorful contrast on the plate but also complements the savory notes of the crepes.
• Grain Side Dishes: For a heartier meal, consider serving the crepes alongside a grain dish like quinoa, farro, or a wild rice blend. These grains can be lightly seasoned with herbs and lemon juice, providing a wholesome foundation that pairs beautifully with the crepes.

2. For Brunch

Savory crepes with chicken and spinach are an excellent brunch option, offering a delightful alternative to traditional breakfast fare. Here are some ideas for serving them as part of a larger brunch spread:

• Breakfast Buffet: Create a brunch buffet by offering a variety of breakfast items. Include fresh fruits such as berries, melons, and citrus for a vibrant touch. You can also provide a selection of pastries, such as croissants, muffins, and scones, to cater to sweet cravings. Add a coffee bar with different brews and flavored creamers for a complete experience.
• Accompaniments: To enhance the brunch atmosphere, consider adding sides like crispy bacon or sausage links. A cheese platter with assorted cheeses and crackers can provide a savory complement to the crepes. Offering a selection of spreads, such as hummus, tzatziki, or a light yogurt dip, can further elevate your brunch spread.
• Beverage Pairings: To wash down the savory flavors, serve refreshing beverages like mimosas, bloody marys, or a selection of herbal teas. These drinks can add a celebratory touch and make the brunch feel special.

3. Garnish Ideas

Garnishing your savory crepes can elevate their presentation and add depth to their flavor profile. Here are several garnish ideas that you can consider:

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkling freshly chopped herbs such as parsley, chives, or dill on top of the crepes can add a burst of color and a fresh, aromatic flavor. These herbs can also enhance the visual appeal, making the dish more inviting.
• Microgreens: For a sophisticated touch, consider using microgreens as a garnish. They not only add a delicate crunch but also offer various flavors depending on the type you choose, such as radish microgreens or pea shoots.
• Cheese Shavings: A light dusting of freshly grated Parmesan or crumbled goat cheese can introduce a delightful saltiness that complements the chicken and spinach filling. Cheese shavings also add a touch of elegance to the dish.
• Balsamic Reduction: Drizzling a balsamic reduction over the crepes adds a sweet and tangy flavor that beautifully contrasts with the savory filling. This garnish can enhance the overall presentation, creating an appealing plate.
• Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest can brighten the dish and balance the richness of the crepes with a hint of acidity. This simple addition can elevate the flavors and provide a refreshing finish.

Conclusion

Savory crepes with chicken and spinach can be served in numerous ways to suit different occasions and preferences. Whether they’re the star of a cozy dinner, a delightful brunch centerpiece, or a sophisticated dish adorned with garnishes, these crepes can be tailored to create an unforgettable dining experience. By thoughtfully pairing them with sides, enhancing the presentation, and considering beverage options, you can transform a simple dish into a culinary celebration that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Additional Tips

Creating the perfect crepe requires attention to detail, and while mastering the basic technique is essential, there are several additional tips that can elevate your dish to new heights. Here’s a comprehensive guide to ensure that your crepes turn out beautifully every time.

Resting the Batter

One of the key steps to achieving tender and flavorful crepes is to allow the batter to rest before cooking. Resting the batter for at least 30 minutes (or up to a few hours in the refrigerator) allows the flour to fully hydrate, leading to a smoother texture. This process also helps to relax the gluten, which can result in more delicate crepes that are less likely to tear during cooking. If you are short on time, a minimum of 15 minutes can still yield improvements, but the longer you let it rest, the better the outcome.

Additionally, resting the batter can also help reduce bubbles that form during mixing, ensuring a more uniform texture. Before you start cooking, give the batter a gentle stir to reincorporate any settled ingredients, but be careful not to over-mix, as this can develop gluten and make your crepes tougher.

Crepe Consistency

The consistency of your crepe batter is crucial for achieving the perfect crepe. Ideally, the batter should resemble heavy cream—not too thick and not too runny. A thicker batter will yield crepes that are fluffy and cake-like, while a thinner batter will produce delicately lacy crepes. If you find your batter is too thick after resting, you can easily adjust it by gradually adding a little more milk or water until you reach the desired consistency.

When testing your batter, consider doing a quick test by cooking a small crepe first. This will allow you to gauge whether the consistency is right. If the crepe is too thick and doesn’t spread easily in the pan, add more liquid. Conversely, if it spreads too thin and tears, you may need to thicken the mixture with a bit more flour. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if your first few crepes aren’t exactly as you envisioned!

Alternative Fillings

While traditional crepes are often filled with sweet ingredients like Nutella, fruit, or whipped cream, there’s a whole world of savory fillings that can add incredible depth and flavor to your dish. Customizing your crepes with alternative fillings not only enhances the taste but also allows for creativity in your cooking.

Consider incorporating sautéed mushrooms and fresh herbs for an earthy flavor profile. Caramelized onions add a sweet and savory touch that pairs beautifully with a variety of cheeses, such as goat cheese or Gruyère. For a protein boost, shredded chicken, spinach, or even smoked salmon can make a satisfying filling.

Don’t shy away from experimenting with international flavors—try filling your crepes with a spicy ratatouille, or a creamy Alfredo sauce with chicken and broccoli for an Italian twist. Additionally, you can sprinkle in some fresh arugula or microgreens for a burst of color and freshness.

Tips for Cooking Crepes

To ensure your crepes cook evenly and don’t stick to the pan, preheat your non-stick skillet or crêpe pan over medium heat before adding the batter. Lightly grease the pan with a small amount of butter or oil, using a paper towel to spread it evenly. You only need to grease the pan for the first crepe; subsequent crepes should not require additional oil if your pan is well-seasoned.

Pour a ladleful of batter into the center of the pan, then quickly tilt and swirl the pan to evenly coat the bottom. This technique will help achieve a uniform thickness. Cooking time is typically around 1-2 minutes per side; look for the edges to lift slightly and the surface to appear set before flipping.

Lastly, consider keeping your finished crepes warm in a low oven (around 200°F or 93°C) while you finish cooking the rest. Layering them between sheets of parchment paper will help prevent them from sticking together.

By implementing these additional tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating perfect crepes that are not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor. Whether you’re preparing a sweet dessert or a savory meal, these techniques will enhance your culinary repertoire and impress your family and friends. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Q: Can I make the crepes ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the crepes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them gently in a skillet before filling.

Q: Can I freeze the crepes?
A: Absolutely! Layer the crepes with parchment paper and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Q: What can I use instead of chicken?
A: You can substitute the chicken with turkey, tofu, or even a mixture of sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian option.

Conclusion

Savory crepes with chicken and spinach offer a delightful culinary experience that’s both satisfying and elegant. With their delicate crepes, flavorful filling, and creamy sauce, they make a perfect dish for any occasion. By following this guide, you’ll create a meal that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. Experiment with different fillings and toppings to make this recipe your own, and enjoy the compliments from family and friends. Happy cooking!

Print