This Easy Low-Carb Chicken Spinach Mushroom Bake is a tasty and healthy dish. Juicy chicken mingles with fresh spinach and mushrooms, all baked together in a creamy sauce. Yum!
I love how simple it is! Just mix, bake, and enjoy. Plus, it’s perfect for lunch or dinner, and my family never complains when I serve it. Makes me feel like a superstar chef! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep this dish low-carb and easy to prepare. You can substitute them with thighs for more flavor, but remember they will take slightly longer to cook.
Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms add wonderful texture and flavor. If you’re out of fresh ones, canned mushrooms work as a decent substitute. Just be sure to drain them well!
Spinach: Fresh spinach is best for this recipe, but you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding to the dish.
Cheese: Mozzarella gives that gooey stretch, while Parmesan adds flavor. If you’re dairy-free, you can use vegan cheese blends or nutritional yeast for a cheesy vibe.
Heavy Cream: This creates a rich sauce. For a lighter option, use half-and-half or coconut cream. Just be aware that the flavor and consistency may change slightly.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but with these handy tips, you’ll hit the mark every time! The key is to sear them for color and flavor, then bake to juicy perfection.
- Use a meat thermometer! Aim for 165°F (74°C) to ensure the chicken is safely cooked.
- Be careful not to overcrowd the pan while searing, as this will steam the chicken instead of browning it.
- Let the chicken rest after baking to keep the juices inside, making each bite super tender.
Easy Low-Carb Chicken Spinach Mushroom Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 ounces fresh mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious bake will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to cook. In total, you can enjoy this hearty meal in about 35 minutes! Perfect for a quick dinner option.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’s ready once you’ve assembled everything.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Lightly grease a baking dish with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. You want to ensure your chicken bakes nicely without any hassle during cleanup!
3. Season the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and season them generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides. This will give your chicken extra flavor as it bakes.
4. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. Don’t worry if they’re not fully cooked, as they’ll finish baking in the oven. After searing, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
5. Sauté the Vegetables:
Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Sauté until the mushrooms are softened and golden, which takes about 5 minutes. The garlic will add a lovely aroma and flavor!
6. Add the Spinach:
Next, add the chopped spinach to the skillet. Cook for about 2 minutes, just until the spinach is wilted. This adds a nice pop of color and nutrition to your dish.
7. Create the Creamy Mixture:
Now pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine all the ingredients. Let it simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes so it thickens slightly. This will create a rich, creamy sauce for the chicken.
8. Assemble in Baking Dish:
Place the seared chicken breasts back into the prepared baking dish. This is where all the flavors will come together.
9. Add the Creamy Mixture:
Pour the sautéed mushroom, spinach, and cream mixture evenly over the chicken. Make sure each piece is well-coated for maximum flavor!
10. Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese generously over the top. This will create a delicious gooey topping as it bakes.
11. Bake Until Done:
Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (reaching an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly on top.
12. Let It Rest:
Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to settle, making each bite extra juicy and tasty.
Enjoy your delicious low-carb chicken spinach mushroom bake! It’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table! 😊
FAQ
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it’s completely thawed first! Thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge or use the microwave for a quick defrost. Pat it dry before seasoning to avoid excess moisture.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and the creamy mixture a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, just assemble in the baking dish and cook as directed!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed for moisture.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This Chicken Spinach Mushroom Bake pairs wonderfully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a low-carb option. Alternatively, you can serve it over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a hearty meal!
