Jen
There’s something magical about golden, flaky phyllo pastry wrapped around a rich, savory filling. If you love the flavors of traditional Greek spanakopita but want to add a hearty protein twist, this Skillet Chicken Spanakopita Pie is the perfect dish. With tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and creamy feta cheese baked in a crisp, buttery crust, this recipe is both comforting and impressive enough for guests. Plus, using a skillet makes the entire process easy and fuss-free!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pan Convenience – Everything cooks in one skillet, reducing dishes and maximizing flavor.
- Balanced & Nutritious – Packed with lean protein, leafy greens, and healthy fats.
- Crispy Perfection – Phyllo dough ensures a crisp, golden crust every time.
- Greek-Inspired Flavors – A delicious blend of spinach, feta, garlic, and herbs.
- Easy to Customize – Adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
- Perfect for Meal Prep – Great for leftovers and reheats beautifully.
- Impressive Yet Simple – Looks elegant but requires minimal effort.
- Great for Any Occasion – Serve it for a casual dinner, brunch, or a special gathering.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for added brightness)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of spice)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, adds warmth and depth)
For the Phyllo Crust:
- 6 sheets phyllo dough, thawed
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (or olive oil for a lighter option)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra savory flavor)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil.
- Sauté the onion until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the chopped spinach, oregano, dill, salt, black pepper, nutmeg, and red pepper flakes. Cook until the spinach wilts and excess moisture evaporates, about 2 minutes.
Step 3: Combine the Filling
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
- Stir in the feta, ricotta, beaten egg, lemon zest, and mix until well combined. Remove from heat.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
- Layer a sheet of phyllo dough over the skillet, letting the edges hang over.
- Brush lightly with melted butter or olive oil.
- Repeat with remaining phyllo sheets, alternating directions for even coverage.
- Tuck in any overhanging dough and lightly brush the top with more butter.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and Parmesan cheese if using.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the phyllo is golden brown and crisp.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips for the Best Skillet Chicken Spanakopita Pie
- Keep Phyllo Dough from Drying Out – Cover the unused sheets with a damp kitchen towel while working.
- Use Fresh or Frozen Spinach – If using frozen, be sure to squeeze out excess moisture before adding it.
- Make It Vegetarian – Skip the chicken and add more spinach, mushrooms, or artichokes for a delicious meat-free version.
- Enhance the Flavors – A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a drizzle of honey over the finished pie enhances the flavors.
- Add a Crunchy Topping – Sprinkle with sesame seeds, pine nuts, or slivered almonds before baking for extra texture.
- Make Ahead – Prepare the filling in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before assembling and baking.
- Serve with a Side – A simple Greek salad, roasted potatoes, or tzatziki pairs beautifully with this dish.
- Storage & Reheating – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to retain crispiness.
- Freezing Instructions – Assemble the pie but do not bake. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F for 35-40 minutes.
Final Thoughts
This Skillet Chicken Spanakopita Pie is a delightful twist on a classic Greek dish, offering the perfect balance of flaky, crispy pastry and rich, savory filling. It’s an easy, one-pan meal that feels special enough for a weekend dinner yet simple enough for a weeknight treat. Try it today and enjoy a bite of Mediterranean comfort!
Have you made this recipe? Share your thoughts and tips in the comments below! We’d love to hear how you customized your Spanakopita Pie and what sides you paired it with!
