Description
Cheesy Chicken and Spinach Bake
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen, thawed and drained)
1 cup sliced mushrooms
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the spinach and mushrooms: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic, spinach, and mushrooms, cooking until softened (about 3-4 minutes). Season with salt and pepper.
Sear the chicken: In the same skillet, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and thyme. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown (chicken will finish cooking in the oven).
Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together heavy cream and chicken broth.
Assemble the bake: Place the sautéed spinach and mushrooms at the bottom of a greased baking dish. Add the seared chicken on top. Pour the cream sauce over everything. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Pair with a side of rice, pasta, or crusty bread.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~400 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect bake every time. First, ensure all ingredients are prepped and measured. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the mushrooms and cook for 2-3 minutes before adding the fresh spinach. Cook just until the spinach wilts and the mushrooms are tender. Season with salt and pepper, then transfer this mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, and dried thyme. In the same skillet, increase heat to medium-high and sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side to develop a golden crust. Place the seared chicken breasts on top of the spinach-mushroom layer. Whisk the heavy cream and chicken broth together and pour it evenly over the chicken and vegetables. Finally, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the entire dish.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty bake pairs beautifully with several sides to complete the meal. For a classic comfort food combination, serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice, fettuccine pasta, or with crusty garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce. To keep it low-carb, consider cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the dish. For added color and nutrition, roasted vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes are excellent choices.
How-to Summary
Quickly summarize the process: Sauté garlic, spinach, and mushrooms, then layer them in a dish. Sear seasoned chicken breasts and place them on top. Pour a mix of cream and broth over everything, cover with cheeses, and bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the top is golden brown.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen spinach? Yes, you can substitute one 10-ounce package of frozen chopped spinach. Thaw it completely and squeeze out all excess liquid to prevent a watery bake.
How can I make this dish lighter? Substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk, and use a reduced-fat mozzarella cheese. The sauce will be slightly less rich but still delicious.
Can I prepare this bake ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble the dish completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, you may need to add 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
What’s the best way to store leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work very well. They may require a slightly longer baking time (check for an internal temperature of 165°F).
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for the best results. First, do not skip searing the chicken, as this step adds crucial flavor and texture. Second, ensure you thoroughly drain any thawed frozen spinach; excess moisture will make the sauce runny. Third, avoid overcooking the chicken by using a meat thermometer to check for the precise 165°F internal temperature. Finally, let the bake rest for 5 minutes after removing it from the oven; this allows the sauce to thicken slightly for perfect serving.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Chicken and Spinach Bake is the ultimate weeknight dinner solution, seamlessly combining protein, greens, and creamy comfort in one pan. Its straightforward preparation leads to an impressively flavorful and satisfying meal that is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Customize it with your favorite veggies or cheeses to make it your own. Enjoy the delicious, cheesy goodness!