Savor the delightful taste of this Savory Chicken Spinach Casserole. Featuring juicy chicken breasts layered with a luscious blend of spinach and cheese, this dish is both filling and flavorful. Ideal for a cozy family meal or an elegant dinner, this recipe is straightforward to make and guaranteed to please. Follow these easy instructions to whip up a delicious and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced in half vertically (total of 4 cutlet pieces)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 block (8 ounces) of softened cream cheese
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups (60 g) fresh spinach
- 1 cup (113 g) of grated mozzarella cheese
- Parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare a baking dish by giving it a light coating of oil or cooking spray and set it aside.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken cutlets with kosher salt and black pepper on both sides.
- Place the seasoned chicken in the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare the Creamy Spinach Mixture:
- In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until well blended.
- Add the fresh spinach to the cream cheese mixture, stirring until the spinach is evenly distributed.
- Assemble the Bake:
- Spread the creamy spinach mixture evenly over the chicken cutlets in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the spinach mixture.
- Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Conclusion:
This Creamy Chicken Spinach Bake is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. The combination of tender chicken, creamy spinach, and melted cheese creates a rich and flavorful dish that will delight your taste buds. Serve it with a side of rice, pasta, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy the comforting flavors and happy cooking!