Frequently Asked Questions
What are Creamy Spinach and Chicken Crepes?
They are a savory dish featuring tender chicken, sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and spinach wrapped in delicate crepes and topped with a Swiss cheese sauce.
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Boneless skinless chicken breast diced into small pieces is recommended for even cooking and a tender texture.
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach, but you will need to sauté it down first and ensure it is well-drained to avoid making the crepes soggy.
How do I prepare the frozen spinach?
The frozen spinach should be thawed completely and then squeezed or drained to remove as much moisture as possible before adding it to the filling.
What kind of mushrooms should I use?
Baby portabella mushrooms are suggested for their earthy flavor, sliced thick to provide a nice texture in the filling.
Is this recipe suitable for breakfast or brunch?
Yes, these savory crepes are an elegant choice for both breakfast and brunch, and are perfect for sharing.
What type of cheese is used in the sauce?
Shredded Swiss cheese is used both in the filling and as a topping to create a luscious cheese sauce.
Can I use store-bought crepes?
Yes, this recipe specifically suggests using a 16-ounce package of pre-made crepes cooked according to package instructions for convenience.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, the savory chicken and spinach filling can be prepared ahead of time, making it a great option for meal planning.
How do I dice the chicken?
The chicken should be diced into small, bite-sized pieces to ensure it cooks quickly and fits easily inside the crepes.
What kind of onion is used in the filling?
A yellow onion is used, diced finely to add a sweet and savory base to the chicken and spinach mixture.
How much garlic is needed?
The recipe calls for two garlic cloves, finely minced, to provide a fragrant aromatic flavor.
Can I substitute the Swiss cheese?
While Swiss is recommended for its melting properties, you could substitute it with Gruyere or white cheddar if preferred.
Are these crepes savory or sweet?
These are strictly savory crepes, focusing on protein and vegetables rather than sugar.
How do I prevent the crepes from breaking?
Be careful not to overfill the crepes and ensure they are warmed slightly so they remain flexible when rolling.
What makes the crepes 'creamy'?
The creaminess comes from the combination of melted butter, sautéed vegetables, and the melted Swiss cheese sauce.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, bell peppers or leeks would make excellent additions to the chicken and spinach sauté.
Is the chicken cooked before being added to the crepe?
Yes, the chicken should be sautéed with the onions, garlic, and mushrooms until fully cooked before being wrapped in the crepes.
Do I need special equipment to make these?
No special equipment is needed other than a standard skillet for sautéing the filling.
How should I season the filling?
The filling is seasoned simply with salt and pepper to taste, allowing the flavors of the garlic and mushrooms to shine.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the chicken and add extra mushrooms or even tofu to keep the dish savory and filling.
What size should the mushroom slices be?
The mushrooms should be sliced thick so they retain their shape and provide a meaty texture against the spinach.
How much butter is used?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of melted butter for sautéing the ingredients.
Can I freeze these crepes?
While best served fresh, you can freeze the filled crepes; however, the texture of the spinach may change slightly upon thawing.
Is this a restaurant-quality dish?
Yes, the combination of Swiss cheese sauce and delicate crepes creates an elegant, restaurant-quality presentation.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 10 main ingredients, including the seasonings and pre-made crepes.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheating in a low-heat oven covered with foil is best to keep the crepes from drying out and to remelt the cheese.
Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used for a slightly juicier filling if you prefer them over breast meat.
Is the Swiss cheese used inside or outside?
The Swiss cheese is used both inside the filling and as a topping to create the sauce effect.
Can I make the crepes from scratch?
Absolutely! If you have the time, homemade crepes will work perfectly with this savory filling.