Chicken, Spinach, and Mushroom Bake
Introduction
This Chicken, Spinach, and Mushroom Bake is a comforting, creamy casserole that brings together tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and fresh spinach in a luscious sauce. Topped with melted mozzarella, it’s a wholesome dish that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prep.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups chopped fresh spinach
1 cup sliced mushrooms
1 cup cream of mushroom soup
½ cup sour cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preheat Oven
Heat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13‑inch baking dish.
Prepare Chicken
Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sear chicken on both sides until lightly golden (about 3–4 minutes per side). Transfer to baking dish.
Cook Vegetables
In the same skillet, sauté garlic and mushrooms until softened. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
Make Sauce
Stir in cream of mushroom soup and sour cream. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Assemble Bake
Pour the mushroom‑spinach mixture over chicken. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
Bake
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C) and cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Time & Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: ~45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Tips & Tricks
Extra flavor: Add a splash of white wine to the mushroom sauce.
Cheese swap: Try provolone or parmesan for a different taste.
Meal prep: Bake, cool, and store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Vegetarian option: Replace chicken with cooked pasta or rice for a meat‑free casserole.
Variations
Creamy Alfredo Bake: Replace mushroom soup with Alfredo sauce.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños.
Low‑carb version: Use chicken thighs for richer flavor and skip the soup, replacing with heavy cream.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with garlic bread or a side salad.
Pair with roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Enjoy with rice or pasta to soak up the creamy sauce.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen spinach?
A: Yes, thaw and drain well before adding.
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Assemble the bake, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
Conclusion
This Chicken, Spinach, and Mushroom Bake is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized to your taste and makes a satisfying, family‑friendly meal.