Description
This creamy spinach and chicken bake is a cozy and flavorful casserole featuring tender chunks of chicken breast, fresh spinach, and a luscious, cheesy cream sauce. Perfect for a comforting family dinner, this dish combines rich mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses with garlic and Italian seasoning to create a satisfying meal that’s both hearty and simple to prepare.
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 2 lbs (900g) boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy & Cheese
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to heat while preparing the dish.
- Prepare baking dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Cook chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and cook for 5 to 6 minutes until it is lightly browned on all sides but not fully cooked through.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Add spinach: Add fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, stirring occasionally to combine evenly with the chicken and garlic.
- Assemble casserole: Transfer the chicken and spinach mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Add cream: Pour the heavy cream evenly over the chicken and spinach mixture, ensuring good coverage for a creamy texture.
- Top with cheese and seasoning: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Then, evenly distribute Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper for flavor.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.
- Rest and serve: Remove from the oven and let the bake rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and the casserole to set slightly.
Notes
- Add sliced mushrooms for extra earthiness and flavor.
- Serve the casserole over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated well.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American Comfort Food