Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake
Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake: A Delicious and Nutritious Dish
If you’re looking for a satisfying meal that combines comfort food with nutritious ingredients, look no further than Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake. This dish is not only creamy and flavorful, but it also packs a punch with protein from chicken and a variety of vitamins from spinach and artichokes. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends, this baked dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
Why Make This Recipe
Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake is a fantastic choice for several reasons:
- Rich Flavor: The combination of cream cheese, Parmesan, and mozzarella creates a rich, cheesy flavor that complements the tender chicken and fresh veggies.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and nutrient-rich vegetables, this dish is both delicious and filling.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can have this dish ready to bake in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
How to Make Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake
Follow this simple guide to create a delightful Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup cream cheese or Greek yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the cream cheese or Greek yogurt, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese until well combined.
- Stir in the cooked chicken, spinach, and artichokes, mixing until everything is evenly coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Grease a baking dish with olive oil and transfer the mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
How to Serve Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake
This dish is versatile and can be served in various ways. Consider serving it with:
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for scooping up the creamy goodness.
- Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, serve it over cauliflower rice for a wholesome meal.
- Green Salad: Pair it with a fresh salad to balance the richness of the bake.
How to Store Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake
To keep your Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake fresh:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the dish before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge before baking.
Tips to Make Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake
- Make it Ahead: This dish can be prepared a day in advance, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or feta for added flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley can enhance the freshness of the dish.
Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or additional vegetables.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños for a spicy twist.
- Additional Veggies: Include mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for more vegetable goodness.
FAQs
-
Can I use raw chicken in this recipe?
- It’s best to use cooked chicken for this recipe. However, if you have raw chicken, consider cooking it separately before adding it to the mix.
-
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
- Greek yogurt is a great alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option or want to add more protein.
-
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
- Yes! Use dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based cheeses to make this dish dairy-free.
Enjoy making your Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake and delight in every flavorful bite! This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also fuels your body with healthy ingredients.
Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake
A creamy and flavorful dish packed with protein from chicken and nutrients from spinach and artichokes, perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced Can use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- 1 cup cream cheese or Greek yogurt Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Adds flavor to the mixture.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated Freshly grated preferred.
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded For a gooey texture.
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped Can substitute with frozen spinach.
- 1 can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped Canned artichokes should be rinsed.
- Salt and pepper to taste Adjust seasoning to preference.
- 1 teaspoon olive oil For greasing the baking dish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the cream cheese or Greek yogurt, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese until well combined.
- Stir in the cooked chicken, spinach, and artichokes, mixing until everything is evenly coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Grease a baking dish with olive oil and transfer the mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
This dish can be prepared a day in advance, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. You can experiment with different cheeses and add fresh herbs for enhanced flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
