This Easy Low-Carb Chicken Spinach Mushroom Bake is a winner! It combines juicy chicken, fresh spinach, and earthy mushrooms all baked together with yummy cheese on top.
You won’t believe how simple it is! I love throwing it all in one dish and watching it bake, making dinner a breeze. Plus, it’s colorful and tastes amazing!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless are perfect for this dish. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a great substitute. Just shred it and skip the searing step!
Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms add great flavor. If you can’t find them, canned mushrooms will work too, but they won’t be as firm. You can also swap in other varieties like cremini or shiitake for a different taste.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is best for its vibrant color and texture. You can substitute frozen spinach, just make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the bake.
Cheese: While mozzarella is melty and delicious, feel free to use a combination of cheddar or gouda for a unique twist. Vegan cheese can be used for a dairy-free option.
Heavy Cream: If you’re looking for a lighter version, half-and-half or coconut milk can be good substitutes, keeping in mind that it may change the flavor slightly.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken just right is crucial so it’s juicy and tender. First, sear the chicken until it’s golden on the outside. This creates a nice crust and flavor. Remember, it doesn’t need to be fully cooked yet; the oven will finish the job.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest after baking for a few minutes to keep it juicy.
Following these steps will ensure your chicken turns out perfectly every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Low-Carb Chicken Spinach Mushroom Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 oz fresh mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe will take approximately 10 minutes for prep and around 25-30 minutes for baking, giving you a total of about 40 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready when your chicken bake is assembled.
2. Season the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and season them with salt, pepper, and paprika. This adds flavor from the very start!
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts, cooking for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown but not fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Cook the Mushrooms:
In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms. Sauté them until they release their moisture and start to brown, which will take about 5 minutes.
5. Add Garlic and Spinach:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant. Next, add the fresh spinach and cook until it wilts, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle the dried Italian seasoning. Stir everything well and let it simmer for about 2 minutes to combine the flavors.
7. Assemble in a Baking Dish:
Place the seared chicken breasts into a baking dish. Spoon the creamy spinach and mushroom mixture generously over the top of each chicken breast.
8. Add the Cheesy Topping:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the dish, creating a delicious cheesy layer on top.
9. Bake:
Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Your chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let it cool for a minute. You can garnish with fresh parsley before serving for a lovely touch!
Enjoy your flavorful, low-carb chicken spinach mushroom bake! It’s comforting, delicious, and easy to make!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s important to thaw it completely before cooking. For quicker thawing, place the chicken in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about an hour. Pat the chicken dry before seasoning and searing to prevent excess moisture.
How Can I Adjust the Recipe for a Dairy-Free Version?
To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. For the cheese, try using vegan cheese shreds that melt well. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as dairy-free products may behave differently.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This bake pairs wonderfully with a side of cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. You can also serve it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables to add some crunch and balance the meal.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or warm it gently in a skillet over low heat. Adding a splash of cream can help revive the sauce’s consistency when reheating.
