Savory Baked Chicken with Spinach and Mushrooms

Looking for a comforting yet low-carb meal to whip up on busy weeknights? Look no further than this delightful Chicken Spinach Mushroom Oven Dish. This creamy and savory dish features tender chicken breasts, earthy mushrooms, and vibrant spinach all baked to perfection with a gooey layer of melted mozzarella cheese. The blend of green onion cream cheese adds a touch of richness that transforms this humble dish into a dinner-time favorite.

I first stumbled upon this Chicken Spinach Mushroom Oven Dish on a chilly evening when I needed to use up some spinach, and it has since become a regular request at my family dinner table. The bubbling cheese, savory mushrooms, and tender chicken create a harmony of flavors that is both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.

The best part about this dish? It’s not only delicious but also easy to make ahead and reheat for a quick and convenient meal option. Whether you enjoy it with roasted cauliflower rice for a heartier plate or with a side of steamed green beans for a burst of color, this Chicken Spinach Mushroom Oven Dish is a versatile and wholesome addition to your recipe repertoire. Give it a try and savor the cheesy, spinach-infused goodness in every bite!

Quick Benefits

• Low in Carbs: Perfect for a satisfying, yet light dinner option.
• Creamy and Comforting: Cream cheese and melted mozzarella elevate the chicken to a dinner-worthy comfort dish.
• Flexible Ingredients: Easily adaptable with ingredient substitutions like using kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach, or plain cream cheese with green onions.

Why You’ll Love This Savory Baked Chicken with Spinach and Mushrooms Recipe

• Comforting Yet Low in Carbs: This dish is perfect for those looking for a hearty, comforting meal that is still low in carbohydrates.
• Easy Weeknight Dinner: Ideal for busy weeknights, this recipe is simple to prepare without the need for fancy ingredients or complex cooking techniques.
• Family Favorite: A hit with the whole family, this creamy chicken spinach and mushroom dish will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Cheesy Goodness: The bubbling mozzarella cheese and savory mushrooms create a deliciously cheesy topping that elevates the humble chicken breast.
• Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared ahead of time, stored in the fridge for up to three days, or frozen for future easy lunches.
• Versatile Ingredients: Easily adaptable with ingredient swaps, such as using regular cream cheese with added green onions or switching spinach for kale.
• Classic and Nostalgic: Reminiscent of old-school casseroles, this recipe brings the nostalgia of childhood dinners while meeting today’s desire for lighter, satisfying meals.
• Moist and Juicy Chicken: Baking the dish covered helps to keep the chicken moist, while the creamy sauce enhances its juiciness.
• Mushroom Variety: Experiment with different mushrooms like cremini, button, or portobello to add unique depth of flavor to the dish.
• Serve with Sides: Pair this dish with roasted cauliflower rice, steamed green beans, or a crisp green salad for a balanced and fulfilling low-carb meal.

Ingredients for Savory Baked Chicken with Spinach and Mushrooms

Main

• 1 small bag (approx. 120 g) fresh baby spinach
• 1 large package (approx. 300 g) sliced mushrooms
• 6 thinly sliced chicken breasts

Dairy

• 8 oz (225 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 container (approx. 227 g) green onion cream cheese

Seasonings

• 1 dash herb and garlic seasoning blend
• 1 dash freshly ground black pepper

Liquids

• 1/4 cup (60 ml) extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) chicken broth

Pro Tips for Savory Baked Chicken with Spinach and Mushrooms

Pro Tip 1: When baking this dish, cover it for the first half of cooking to ensure the chicken stays moist and juicy. This will also help the creamy sauce to retain its richness.

Pro Tip 2: Feel free to use cremini, button, or portobello mushrooms for added depth of flavor in this dish. They all work well and bring a unique taste to the recipe.

Pro Tip 3: If you can’t find green onion cream cheese, simply mix chopped green onions with regular or whipped cream cheese and a dash of garlic powder as an easy alternative. Additionally, you can swap spinach for kale or Swiss chard, adjusting cooking times as needed. Serve with a side of crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to balance this comforting, low-carb meal.

How to Make Savory Baked Chicken with Spinach and Mushrooms

Step 1: Prepare Chicken and Vegetable Layer

Place the sliced chicken breasts in a single layer in a 23×33 cm ovenproof dish. Top with baby spinach, sliced mushrooms, black pepper, and herb and garlic seasoning.

Step 2: Combine Cream Cheese Mixture

Allow the green onion cream cheese to soften. Combine with olive oil and chicken broth until smooth. Pour over chicken and vegetables, then loosely cover with foil.

Step 3: First Bake

Place in a preheated oven at 190°C and bake covered for 20 minutes.

Step 4: Second Bake

Uncover and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the mushrooms are softened.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Finish Baking

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Bake uncovered for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Take the dish out of the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Storage Tips

Once you have enjoyed your creamy chicken spinach and mushroom oven dish, ensure it cools down to room temperature before storing leftovers. Cover the dish and refrigerate it promptly, as it can be kept well for up to three days. When reheating, it is recommended to use a low oven or gently warm it in the microwave to retain the tenderness of the chicken and creaminess of the cheese. For convenience, you can freeze single portions of the dish and reheat them for easy and quick lunches.

If you run out of green onion cream cheese, simply substitute it with softened regular or whipped cream cheese mixed with sliced green onions and a hint of garlic powder. In case you prefer a sharper flavor, Swiss or provolone cheese can be used instead of mozzarella. Additionally, if you decide to use baby kale instead of spinach, ensure it is roughly chopped to match the cooking time. To enhance the meal, consider serving it over roasted cauliflower rice for added substance or alongside steamed green beans for a burst of color. Garnishing with fresh parsley can add a touch of brightness to the dish if desired.

Ingredient Substitutions

If green onion cream cheese is not available, you can easily substitute it with softened regular or whipped cream cheese mixed with a couple of sliced green onions and a touch of garlic powder for a similar flavor profile. Additionally, if you prefer a sharper taste, Swiss or provolone cheese can be used instead of mozzarella to add a different dimension to the dish.

In terms of greens, baby kale can be a great alternative to spinach if you prefer or if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure to coarsely chop the kale to ensure it cooks evenly with the other ingredients. Adjust cooking times as needed to accommodate the sturdier texture of kale compared to spinach.

For a complete meal, consider serving this dish over roasted cauliflower rice for added substance or alongside steamed green beans for a colorful side. If you like, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of freshness. This versatile dish allows for personal preferences and ingredient availability while still delivering a comforting and satisfying low-carb dinner option.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try topping the Chicken Spinach Mushroom Oven Dish with a sprinkle of crispy bacon crumbles for an extra layer of flavor and texture. The salty crunch of the bacon pairs perfectly with the creamy cheese and savory mushrooms, elevating this cozy dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Another fun way to serve this dish is to scoop it into individual baked potato skins for a fun twist on loaded potatoes. Simply bake some potatoes until tender, scoop out the flesh to create a shell, then fill each potato skin with the Chicken Spinach Mushroom mixture and top with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chives. This creative presentation is sure to impress guests and make for a satisfying and hearty meal.

FAQs for Savory Baked Chicken with Spinach and Mushrooms

Can I use different types of mushrooms in this recipe?

Yes, cremini, button, or portobello mushrooms all work well and add unique depth to the dish.

What can I use as a substitute for green onion cream cheese?

Plain cream cheese with finely chopped green onions is an easy alternative if green onion cream cheese is unavailable.

Can I use kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach in this dish?

Yes, kale or Swiss chard can be used instead of spinach, though cooking times may need slight adjustment.

What can I serve with this chicken spinach mushroom oven dish to make it a complete meal?

You can serve it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced, low-carb meal.

Conclusion

I hope this Chicken Spinach Mushroom Oven Dish becomes a staple in your weekly meal rotation, just like it has for my family. The creamy and comforting flavors paired with the ease of preparation make it a winning dish for busy nights or whenever you need a satisfying yet light meal. The blend of spinach, mushrooms, and cheesy goodness truly makes every bite a delight.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with this recipe and make it your own. Whether you switch up the cheese, try different greens, or serve it with your favorite sides, the versatility of this dish allows for endless variations to suit your taste preferences. Remember to savor those cheesy, bubbly edges and enjoy the heartwarming nostalgia that comes with classic comfort food like this Chicken Spinach Mushroom Oven Dish. Happy cooking!