Cheesy Chicken and Spinach Bake
A comforting, creamy, and cheesy dish packed with tender chicken, spinach, and a deliciously seasoned sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minute
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tbsp olive oil
For the Spinach & Cheese Sauce:
2 tbsp Olive Oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
8 oz (225g) fresh spinach (or 1½ cups frozen, thawed and drained)
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
½ cup cream cheese, softened
1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp paprika
For the Topping:
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until lightly golden (it will finish cooking in the oven). Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Spinach & Cheese Sauce
In the same skillet, pour oil ver medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted (or stir in thawed frozen spinach).
Pour in heavy cream and stir in cream cheese, melting it into the sauce.
Add mozzarella, Parmesan, red pepper flakes, oregano, and paprika. Stir until melted and combined.
Step 3: Assemble & Bake
Return seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce.
Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan topping over the chicken.
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C).
Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes for a golden, bubbly top.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
Pair with steamed vegetables or a side salad for a low-carb option.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for added freshness.
Tips for the Best Cheesy Chicken and Spinach Bake
1. Use Thin Chicken Breasts
If your chicken breasts are thick, slice them in half horizontally or pound them to even thickness for faster and more even cooking.
2. Sear for Extra Flavor
Searing the chicken before baking adds a delicious golden crust and locks in moisture.
3. Avoid Watery Spinach
If using frozen spinach, thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding it to the sauce. This prevents a watery dish.
4. Choose the Right Cheese
Mozzarella for melty goodness, Parmesan for a sharp bite, and cream cheese for creaminess.
Use grated cheese, not pre-shredded, for better melting.
5. Add a Crunchy Topping (Optional)
For a crispy top, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan before baking.
6. Make It Keto or Low-Carb
This dish is naturally keto-friendly. Just serve it with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of pasta or rice.
7. Meal Prep & Storage
Make ahead: Assemble everything, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes or microwave in short intervals.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken with sauce
Calories: ~420 kcal
Protein: ~40g
Fat: ~28g
Carbohydrates: ~5g
Fiber: ~1.5g
Net Carbs: ~3.5g