Creamy Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake
This dish combines tender chicken breasts baked in a creamy spinach and artichoke sauce, topped with melted cheese. Inspired by the classic spinach artichoke dip, it’s hearty, flavorful, and kid-friendly. Perfect served with rice, quinoa, pasta, or roasted vegetables.
Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: 45–50 minutes
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
1–2 tbsp olive oil
For the Spinach Artichoke Cream Sauce:
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (or frozen, thawed and drained)
1 cup canned artichoke hearts, chopped
½ cup cream cheese, softened
½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 garlic cloves, minced
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
¼ cup milk (adjust for desired creamines)
Optional Topping:
Extra shredded mozzarella or Parmesan
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown (it will finish cooking in the oven).
2. Make the Spinach Artichoke Cream Sauce:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan, mozzarella, minced garlic, spinach, and artichokes.
2. Stir in red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Add milk gradually until the mixture is creamy but spreadable.
3. Assemble the Bake:
1. Place the seared chicken breasts in a baking dish.
2. Spoon the spinach artichoke mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
3. Sprinkle extra mozzarella or Parmesan on top if desired.
4. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C) and the topping is bubbly and golden.
4. Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley.
Serve warm with roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or your favorite grain.
Tips:
Use fresh spinach for a brighter flavor, but frozen works well if drained thoroughly.
You can prepare the sauce ahead of time to save cooking time.
For extra richness, add a splash of white wine or chicken broth to the sauce before baking.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 400–450 kcal
Protein: 35 g
Fat: 28 g
Carbohydrates: 6–8 g
Fiber: 2 g