Description
This Cheesy Chicken Spinach Bake is a delicious and easy-to-make dish featuring tender chicken breasts topped with creamy seasoned cream cheese, sautéed spinach, and melted mozzarella. Perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner, this bake combines comforting flavors and wholesome ingredients for a crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 3 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut in half lengthwise to form thinner cutlets)
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Cheese and Vegetables
- 6 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 2 cups baby spinach leaves
- 1 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly spray a 9×13 inch glass baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Chicken Base: Lay the chicken breast cutlets evenly in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the chicken. Sprinkle the minced garlic and Italian seasoning evenly atop the chicken pieces. Then, spread the softened cream cheese over the tops of each chicken cutlet, creating a creamy layer.
- Sauté Spinach: Heat a small non-stick skillet over medium heat and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the baby spinach leaves and cook, stirring continuously until the spinach wilts. Once wilted, distribute the cooked spinach evenly over the cream cheese layer on the chicken.
- Add Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle the shredded Mozzarella cheese evenly over the spinach-covered chicken. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safe consumption.
- Serve: Remove the dish from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes, then serve warm. Enjoy your cheesy, savory chicken spinach bake!
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the Italian seasoning.
- Use fresh mozzarella for a creamier texture if preferred.
- Make sure the chicken is evenly cut so it cooks uniformly.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain cheesy texture.
