Treat yourself to the delightful tastes of this Chicken and Spinach Bake. Ideal for a warm family gathering, this dish features succulent chicken, vibrant spinach, and a luscious, creamy cheese sauce. Simple to make, it’s bound to become a beloved staple in your home.
Ingredients:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1⁄4 teaspoon salt
- 1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1⁄2 cup Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Chicken:
- In a skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Season the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Cook the chicken breasts in the skillet until they are golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest. Once cool, cut it into bite-sized pieces.
- Sauté the Garlic and Spinach:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook until aromatic, which should take around 1 minute.
- Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Prepare the Creamy Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, and the optional Parmesan cheese.
- Mix until well combined and creamy.
- Combine the Ingredients:
- Add the cooked chicken and sautéed spinach to the creamy mixture.
- Mix until everything is fully combined and blended.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Transfer the chicken and spinach mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Conclusion
This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a delicious and satisfying meal that combines the rich flavors of chicken, spinach, and creamy cheese. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, offering comfort and delight in every bite. Enjoy this easy-to-make casserole with your loved ones and savor the comforting flavors!