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If you’re craving a comforting dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Creamy Chicken Spinach Bake Recipe is exactly what you need. Tender chicken breasts get a luscious makeover with a dreamy cream cheese and garlic blend, layered with fresh spinach and melted mozzarella that bakes to gooey perfection. It’s a simple yet indulgent dish that brings together vibrant greens, rich creaminess, and satisfying protein in every bite, guaranteed to brighten up any weeknight or special occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Creamy Chicken Spinach Bake Recipe lies in how straightforward the ingredients are, yet each one plays a crucial role in creating that irresistible flavor, texture, and color balance. From creamy and tangy to fresh and cheesy, these ingredients combine effortlessly to make magic happen.
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced in half vertically: Ensures thin, even pieces that cook quickly and soak up all the flavors.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Brings out the natural juices and enhances every component of the dish.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild kick and depth to the savory profile.
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened: Creates the creamy base that makes this bake so indulgent and luscious.
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced: Infuses a bright, aromatic punch that awakens the entire dish.
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning: A perfect herb blend that complements both the chicken and the spinach seamlessly.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Gives a subtle heat that balances the creaminess if you’re feeling adventurous.
- 2 cups (60 g) fresh spinach: Adds a vibrant green color and fresh, earthy flavor that brightens the bake.
- 1 cup (113 g) mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts beautifully to create a golden, gooey topping that everyone loves.
- Parsley, chopped for garnish: Provides a fresh, herbaceous finish to lift the whole presentation.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Spinach Bake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by heating your oven to 400°F and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray. This ensures your chicken won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze. Having everything ready ahead truly sets you up for success.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Grab those thinly sliced chicken breasts and sprinkle kosher salt and black pepper evenly on all sides. This simple seasoning is key to developing a juicy, flavorful foundation. Then arrange the chicken in a single layer in your prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Mix and Spread the Cream Cheese Layer
In a small bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. This mixture isn’t just creamy – it’s packed with bright, savory notes that elevate the chicken perfectly. Spread this luscious mixture evenly over each piece of chicken for that signature richness.
Step 4: Add Spinach and Mozzarella
Next, layer fresh spinach evenly on top of each chicken piece – the spinach wilts beautifully in the oven, keeping the dish light and fresh. Finally, scatter shredded mozzarella over the spinach, which will melt into a golden bubbly blanket that’s utterly irresistible.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide your baking dish into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The cheese should be golden and bubbly, and the aromas filling your kitchen will hint at the delicious meal to come.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top—it adds a lovely pop of color and a subtle fresh note that rounds out the flavors beautifully.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Spinach Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Chopped parsley is a straightforward garnish that instantly brightens the dish, but feel free to get creative with some lemon zest or a light drizzle of olive oil for extra freshness and shine.
Side Dishes
This creamy, cheesy chicken bake pairs wonderfully with light, crisp sides such as a simple green salad, steamed asparagus, or garlic roasted potatoes. The sides should complement without overpowering the richness of the main event.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this creamy chicken spinach bake over a bed of fluffy quinoa or your favorite pasta. You can also portion it into individual ramekins for charming single servings that are perfect for dinner parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying this scrumptious bake, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for an even tastier meal the next day.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this dish freezes beautifully. Wrap tightly in foil or place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through, or microwave on medium power to avoid drying out the tender chicken and creamy topping.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! If using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding it to the bake to prevent a watery dish.
Is the cream cheese mixture very spicy with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes just add a gentle heat that balances the creaminess—it’s optional and easily omitted if you prefer a milder flavor.
What can I substitute for mozzarella cheese?
You can use provolone, fontina, or even a mild cheddar for a slightly different but delicious cheesy topping.
How can I tell when the chicken is cooked?
Using a meat thermometer is your best bet—make sure the internal temperature hits 165°F. The cheese should also be bubbly and golden as a good visual clue.
Can this recipe be made dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, swap the cream cheese and mozzarella with plant-based alternatives that melt well. This will still yield a creamy, delicious dish without dairy.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Spinach Bake Recipe is one of those dishes you’ll want to keep in your weeknight rotation. It’s quick to throw together, packed with flavor, and hits that cozy comfort food spot without feeling heavy. Give it a go—you might just find your new favorite dinner!
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Creamy Chicken Spinach Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Chicken Spinach Bake is a delicious, easy-to-make dish featuring tender baked chicken breasts topped with a creamy garlic and herb cream cheese mixture, fresh spinach, and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, it’s baked to perfection and garnished with fresh parsley.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced in half vertically for a total of 4 cutlet pieces
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Cream Cheese Mixture
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
Toppings
- 2 cups (60 g) fresh spinach
- 1 cup (113 g) mozzarella cheese, shredded
- parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and set it aside.
- Season the chicken: Evenly season all sides of the chicken breasts with kosher salt and black pepper. Place the seasoned chicken cutlets in a single layer on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare the cream cheese mixture: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well until smooth and evenly incorporated.
- Spread the mixture on chicken: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the top of each chicken piece, covering it completely.
- Add spinach and cheese: Place fresh spinach evenly on top of each chicken piece, followed by a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake the dish: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and golden.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is cooked through by using a meat thermometer to check for 165°F internal temperature.
- Red pepper flakes are optional and can be omitted if you prefer a milder flavor.
- For extra flavor, you can add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top before baking.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
