Description
This Chicken Spinach Bake is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a creamy garlic-cream cheese mixture, fresh spinach, and melted mozzarella cheese. Baked to perfection, it offers a delightful combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
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) and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. This ensures the chicken won’t stick and makes cleanup easier.
- Season the chicken: Evenly season all sides of the chicken breasts with kosher salt and black pepper. Arrange them in a single layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish for even cooking.
- Prepare the cream cheese mixture: In a small bowl, combine softened cream cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes. Mix until smooth and well blended.
- Spread cream cheese mixture on chicken: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the top of each chicken piece, coating them thoroughly to impart flavor and moisture during baking.
- Add spinach and cheese: Place fresh spinach evenly on top of each chicken breast, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the spinach to create a cheesy, melty topping.
- Bake the chicken: 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 golden and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch, and serve the chicken bake warm for a delicious, wholesome meal.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
- The red pepper flakes are optional but add a nice subtle heat.
- Use fresh spinach for the best texture and flavor, but you can substitute with frozen spinach that has been thawed and drained if needed.
- Check the chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it is fully cooked.
- Serving suggestion: pair this bake with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad.
