Creamy Chicken Mushroom and Spinach Bake
This Creamy Chicken Mushroom and Spinach Bake is the ultimate comfort food dish It’s rich creamy and cheesy with tender chicken earthy mushrooms and fresh spinach all baked to bubbly perfection This dish makes a hearty dinner served with a side of rice pasta or crusty bread and it’s easy enough for a weeknight but delicious enough for guests
Ingredients
2 tbsp olive oil
1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast cut into chunks
2 cups fresh spinach
1 1/2 cups sliced mushrooms
2 cloves garlic minced
1 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour
1 1/2 cups milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 tsp nutmeg optional
Fresh thyme for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken and Veggies
Preheat oven to 375°F 190°C
In a large skillet heat olive oil over medium heat
Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through about 6 to 8 minutes Remove and set aside
In the same skillet add mushrooms and cook until golden about 4 minutes
Add spinach and cook until wilted about 2 minutes Add garlic and cook for 1 minute
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
Add butter to the skillet and melt
Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux
Slowly whisk in milk and cream until smooth
Add salt pepper and nutmeg if using
Cook until sauce thickens about 3 to 4 minutes
Step 3: Assemble the Bake
Add cooked chicken back into the sauce
Stir in half of the mozzarella and half of the Parmesan
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish
Top with remaining cheeses
Step 4: Bake and Serve
Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until bubbly and golden
Garnish with fresh thyme and serve hot
Time and Servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Tips
Use rotisserie chicken to save time
Substitute kale or chard for spinach if desired
Add red pepper flakes for heat
Use gluten-free flour and pasta for a gluten-free option
Add a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy topping
Q&A
Q: Can I freeze this dish
A: Yes allow it to cool completely then cover and freeze for up to 2 months Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven
Q: Can I make it ahead
A: Yes assemble the dish then refrigerate before baking When ready bake it directly from the fridge adding 5 more minutes
Q: What can I serve with it
A: It pairs well with pasta rice roasted veggies or garlic bread
Q: Can I use canned mushrooms
A: Yes but fresh mushrooms will give better flavor and texture
Q: Can I make it vegetarian
A: Yes omit the chicken and add extra mushrooms or chickpeas for protein
Nutrition Per Serving Approximate
Calories: 450
Protein: 32g
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g
Conclusion
Creamy Chicken Mushroom and Spinach Bake is a cozy wholesome and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your home It’s loaded with flavor rich in protein and simple to prepare Whether you’re making dinner for the family or meal prepping for the week this creamy bake delivers comfort and nutrition in every bite