Description
This delicious Chicken Spinach Bake is a quick and easy meal featuring tender chicken breasts topped with a creamy garlic and Italian seasoned cream cheese mixture, fresh spinach, and melted mozzarella. Baked to perfection, this comforting dish is perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner and serves four.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced in half vertically for a total of 4 cutlet pieces
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Cream Cheese Mixture
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
Toppings
- 2 cups (60 g) fresh spinach
- 1 cup (113 g) mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and set aside.
- Season the chicken: Evenly season all sides of the chicken breasts with kosher salt and black pepper. Arrange them in a single layer on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare the cream cheese mixture: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well until smooth and well incorporated.
- Spread cream cheese mixture: Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over each chicken breast piece, covering the surface thoroughly.
- Add spinach and cheese: Place fresh spinach leaves over the cream cheese layer on each chicken piece. Then sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the spinach.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from oven, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to check that chicken is fully cooked to ensure food safety.
- Red pepper flakes are optional; omit if you prefer a milder dish.
- You can substitute mozzarella with other cheeses like provolone or cheddar if desired.
- For a lower-fat option, use reduced-fat cream cheese and mozzarella.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
