Description
Cheesy Baked Chicken with Spinach & Mushrooms
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tbsp garlic powder
8 oz fresh mushrooms, sliced
4 cups fresh spinach
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream
Directions
Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Season and Sear Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown (it doesn’t need to be cooked through yet).
Sauté Mushrooms & Spinach: Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat.
Layer the Dish: In a baking dish, arrange the chicken breasts. Spread the sautéed spinach and mushrooms evenly over the chicken.
Add Cheese and Cream: Pour heavy cream over the chicken and vegetables. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Let it cool slightly, then serve hot. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~350 kcal per serving
#CheesyChickenBake #ComfortFood #EasyDinners
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect bake every time. Begin by patting your chicken breasts dry with paper towels; this ensures a better sear. When seasoning, be generous with the salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides. For searing, ensure your skillet and oil are hot before adding the chicken to get that golden-brown crust. After removing the chicken, add the mushrooms to the same skillet without wiping it out—this captures all the flavorful browned bits. Once the mushrooms are soft and the spinach is wilted, you can optionally stir in a pinch of nutmeg or red pepper flakes for extra depth. When layering in the baking dish, slightly overlap the vegetables to cover the chicken completely. Pour the cream evenly, and for the cheesiest top, use a mix of full-fat mozzarella and freshly grated Parmesan.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and creamy chicken bake pairs wonderfully with simple sides that balance the dish. Serve it over a bed of steamed white rice, buttered egg noodles, or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. For a lighter option, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted asparagus makes an excellent accompaniment. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.
How-to Summary
In summary: Season and sear chicken until golden. Sauté mushrooms and spinach in the same pan. Layer chicken and veggies in a baking dish. Pour over cream and top with cheeses. Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until chicken is cooked through and cheese is bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely. Bone-in, skin-on thighs will add more flavor and require a slightly longer baking time (about 30-35 minutes). Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
How can I make this dish lighter?
Substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version. You can also reduce the cheese by half or use part-skim varieties.
What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a covered oven dish at 325°F or in the microwave at a reduced power to prevent the sauce from separating.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the entire dish up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.
My sauce is too thin. How can I thicken it?
If your sauce is runny after baking, you can create a quick slurry by mixing 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and stirring it into the hot sauce in the baking dish. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Skillet: Sear chicken in batches if necessary to avoid steaming and ensure a proper crust.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Since the chicken finishes cooking in the oven, searing should only be until browned, not cooked through, to prevent dryness.
- Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: These often contain anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy. Freshly grated cheese melts much more smoothly.
- Not Seasoning Enough: Be sure to season the chicken well and also taste your spinach and mushroom mixture, adding salt if needed before layering.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Baked Chicken with Spinach & Mushrooms is the ultimate comfort food that is deceptively simple to make. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can avoid common pitfalls and create a restaurant-quality meal at home. It’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing recipe perfect for a busy weeknight or a casual dinner with friends. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and flavorful vegetables, this dish is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation.