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- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes - 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped - 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button mushrooms work best) - 1 cup cream cheese, softened - 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, plus extra for topping These main ingredients create a great base for our dish. The chicken gives protein, and the spinach adds nutrients. Mushrooms bring a nice texture and flavor. Cream cheese and mozzarella make it creamy and cheesy. - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat) These seasonings add flavor. Garlic and onion powders bring depth. Black pepper enhances the taste, while red pepper flakes give a little kick if you like heat. - 2 tablespoons olive oil - Salt to taste Olive oil is key for cooking the chicken. Salt brings out the flavors in all ingredients. Use these essentials to make your dish pop. {{ingredient_image_2}} - Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This gets it hot for baking. - Cook the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 large chicken breasts cut into cubes and season with salt, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes until it is fully cooked and no longer pink. Stir it often to cook evenly. - Add the Mushrooms: Toss in 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the mushrooms soften. Stir them as they cook for even heat. - Incorporate the Spinach: Add 2 cups of roughly chopped fresh spinach to the skillet. Cook for about 2 minutes until the spinach wilts. Remove the skillet from the heat when done. - Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, mix 1 cup of softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended. - Combine Everything: Gently fold the cheese mixture into the skillet with the chicken, mushrooms, and spinach. Make sure every piece is coated with the creamy mixture. - Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a baking dish. Spread it out evenly. If you want, sprinkle more mozzarella cheese on top for extra flavor. - Bake the Dish: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Look for the cheese on top to bubble and turn golden. - Final Touches: Once baked, take the dish out of the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors blend nicely. Choosing the Right Chicken Use fresh chicken breasts for this bake. They should be firm and pink. Cut them into bite-sized cubes. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy. You can also use chicken thighs for more flavor if you prefer. Ensuring Even Cooking Cook the chicken in a single layer in the skillet. This way, it cooks through without steaming. Stir the chicken often to avoid burning. A good rule is to cook until no pink shows in the center. Presentation Tips Serve this dish in individual ramekins. This makes it look fancy and fun. You can also place it on a large platter for sharing. Spread it out evenly so everyone gets a good portion. Garnishing Ideas Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for color. Grated Parmesan cheese can boost flavor too. These small touches make the dish even more inviting. Adding Herbs and Spices Try adding thyme or basil for extra flavor. Fresh herbs work best, but dried ones are fine too. If you like heat, toss in more red pepper flakes. Adjusting Creaminess If you want a creamier texture, add more cream cheese or mozzarella. Mixing in a bit of sour cream can also add a nice tang. Adjust the creaminess to fit your taste. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh spinach and mushrooms for the best flavor and texture. Fresh ingredients elevate the dish significantly. Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as cream feta or gouda, to add unique flavors to your bake. Meal Prep Friendly: This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat before serving. Spice It Up: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes or add other spices like smoked paprika for a different flavor profile to suit your taste. {{image_4}} - Low-Fat Cheese Alternatives: You can use low-fat cream cheese or mozzarella. They lower calories but keep the taste. - Vegetarian Options: Swap chicken for tofu or chickpeas. This adds protein and makes the dish plant-based. - Adding Different Vegetables: Try bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli. Each adds unique tastes and textures. - Incorporating Different Cheeses: Use gouda or cheddar for a different flavor. Mixing cheeses can change the whole dish. - Slow Cooker Version: Cook the chicken and veggies in a slow cooker. This makes the chicken tender and juicy. - Skillet Method: If you want a quick meal, use a skillet. Just sauté all ingredients until done. This method saves time. - Refrigeration Guidelines: Store your leftover chicken spinach mushroom bake in an airtight container. It can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge. Make sure it cools down before sealing to keep moisture out. - Freezing Options: You can freeze leftovers too. Place the dish in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 2-3 months. For best results, portion it into smaller servings. This makes it easy to thaw only what you need. - Best Methods for Reheating: The best way to reheat is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the dish with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warm. This keeps the bake creamy and delicious. - Microwave vs. Oven: You can use the microwave for quick reheating. Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium for 1-2 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating. However, the oven gives better texture. - How Long it Lasts: The chicken spinach mushroom bake lasts 3-4 days in the fridge. In the freezer, it can be safe for 2-3 months. - Signs of Spoilage: Look for changes in color or smell. If it smells sour or looks off, it is best to toss it. Always trust your nose and eyes; they rarely lie! Can I use frozen spinach? Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well. This helps avoid extra water in your dish. Frozen spinach works great and saves time. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through? Check the chicken's color and temperature. The inside should not be pink. You can use a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F (75°C). This ensures it is safe to eat. Is this dish gluten-free? Yes, this dish is gluten-free. All the ingredients used, like chicken and cheese, contain no gluten. Always double-check labels to be sure. Calories per Serving This dish has about 380 calories per serving. It is filling and low in carbs. Macronutrient Breakdown - Protein: 32g - Fat: 25g - Carbohydrates: 6g This makes it a great option for low-carb diets. Can this be made ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead. Cook it and then store it in the fridge. It stays good for about three days. How to include in meal prep? You can divide it into containers. This makes it easy to grab for lunch or dinner. Pair it with a side salad for a complete meal. This dish uses simple ingredients like chicken, spinach, and cheese for a tasty meal. You learned the steps to cook it just right. Adding your favorite spices can enhance the flavor. Storing leftovers safely keeps them fresh. For variation, try different cheeses or cooking methods. I hope you feel inspired to make this dish your own. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Creamy Low Carb Chicken Spinach Mushroom Bake

A delicious and creamy low carb chicken bake with spinach and mushrooms.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 0.5 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, plus extra for topping
  • 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
  • 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • to taste salt

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken breasts, seasoning them with salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Sauté the chicken until it is fully cooked and no longer pink in the center, approximately 6-8 minutes.
  • Incorporate the sliced mushrooms into the skillet with the chicken. Cook them for an additional 4-5 minutes until they become tender, stirring occasionally.
  • Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for about 2 minutes, or until the spinach is just wilted. Once done, remove the skillet from heat.
  • In a separate mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix together until the two cheeses are well incorporated and smooth.
  • Gently fold the cream cheese mixture into the skillet with the cooked chicken, mushrooms, and spinach. Make sure all ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
  • Pour the mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. If desired, sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese generously over the top for an extra cheesy finish.
  • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and lightly golden.
  • Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to set.

Notes

For an appealing serving suggestion, divide the bake into individual ramekins or serve it on a large platter. Enhance the visual appeal by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or a light sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Keyword bake, chicken, low carb, mushrooms, spinach