Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake Recipe

Creamy Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake Recipe: Comfort on a Plate

Creamy, cheesy comfort food takes a delightful turn with this spinach artichoke chicken bake that promises to tantalize your taste buds.

Rich flavors and wholesome ingredients blend seamlessly in this crowd-pleasing dish.

The combination of tender chicken, velvety spinach, and hearty artichokes creates a mouthwatering meal that stands out from ordinary weeknight dinners.

Packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor, this recipe delivers a satisfying experience for everyone at the table.

Each bite offers a perfect balance of creamy textures and savory notes that make dinner feel special.

The simple preparation means you can have this delectable meal ready in no time.

Prepare to fall in love with a new family favorite that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dining experience.

What Makes Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake a Favorite

  • Dive into a hassle-free meal that combines protein, vegetables, and creamy goodness in one delightful dish.
  • Pack your plate with protein-rich chicken, spinach's iron, and artichoke's fiber for a wholesome dinner that supports your health goals.
  • Swap ingredients or adjust seasonings to match your taste preferences, making this recipe a versatile go-to for any palate.
  • Create a satisfying meal that appeals to both adults and kids, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.

Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake Ingredients Guide

Main Protein:
  • Chicken Breast: A lean and tender protein that provides the foundation for this hearty dish.
Dairy Components:
  • Neufchatel Cheese, Greek Yogurt, Cottage Cheese: These creamy ingredients create a rich and smooth base with a tangy flavor profile.
  • Mozzarella Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Melty cheeses that add depth and provide a golden, bubbly topping.
Vegetable and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Artichoke Hearts: Tender, slightly tangy vegetable that adds a sophisticated flavor to the dish.
  • Spinach: A nutritious green that brings color and earthy notes to the recipe.
  • Olive Oil: Used for cooking the chicken and adding a subtle richness.
  • Garlic Powder, Dried Basil, Onion Powder: Seasonings that provide a harmonious blend of savory flavors.
Seasoning and Finishing Touches:
  • Salt, Pepper: Classic seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the chicken and cheese mixture.
  • Cooking Spray: Used to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal from the baking dish.

Must-Have Tools for Chicken Bake Perfection

  • Large Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining creamy cheese mixture and mixing ingredients smoothly.
  • Skillet: Perfect for cooking chicken evenly and getting that nice golden color.
  • 8×8 Baking Dish: Ideal for assembling and baking the chicken casserole with even heat distribution.
  • Cutting Board: Necessary for slicing chicken and chopping artichoke hearts and spinach.
  • Sharp Knife: Helps make precise cuts for chicken and vegetable preparation.
  • Measuring Cups: Ensures accurate ingredient proportions for the cheese mixture.
  • Cooking Spray: Prevents sticking and helps with easy dish cleanup.
  • Spatula or Mixing Spoon: Great for stirring and combining ingredients thoroughly.

Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake Made Simple

Step 1: Fire Up the Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 400F and give an 8×8 baking dish a quick spritz of cooking spray to prevent any sticky situations.

Step 2: Transform the Chicken

Slice chicken breasts into long strips, then cut crosswise into thin pieces.

Sizzle olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Toss in chicken and cook until it turns from pink to white, about 6-8 minutes.

Season with salt and pepper, then set aside.

Step 3: Whip Up the Creamy Goodness

Grab a big mixing bowl and toss in:
  • Softened Neufchatel cheese
  • Greek yogurt
  • Cottage cheese
  • Mozzarella
  • Parmesan
  • Garlic powder
  • Dried basil
  • Onion powder

Blend everything until super smooth and dreamy.

Step 4: Welcome the Veggie Squad

Chop artichoke hearts and spinach into tiny bits.

Gently fold these green heroes into your creamy cheese mixture.

Step 5: Build Your Flavor Masterpiece

Mix the cooked chicken into the cheesy veggie blend.

Spread this deliciousness evenly in the baking dish.

Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and parmesan on top for extra yum.

Step 6: Bake to Bubbly Brilliance

Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese turns molten.

For that irresistible golden crust, blast under the broiler for 4-5 minutes.

Pull out and serve immediately!

Smart Tips for Creamy Chicken Bake Results

  • Cut chicken against the grain into thin, uniform slices for even cooking and tender texture.
  • Remove extra liquid from chicken and vegetables to prevent a watery casserole and maintain a creamy consistency.
  • Use a combination of Neufchatel, Greek yogurt, and cottage cheese for a lighter, protein-packed creamy base with rich flavor.
  • Enhance the dish by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like thyme for an extra flavor kick.
  • Swap out high-carb ingredients with cauliflower or zucchini to make this recipe suitable for low-carb or keto diets.

Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake Recipe Variations

  • Low-Carb Cauliflower Swap: Replace chicken with riced cauliflower, keeping the creamy cheese base and spinach artichoke mix for a vegetarian, low-carb alternative.
  • Dairy-Free Fusion: Substitute Neufchatel and dairy cheeses with cashew cream and nutritional yeast, using coconut yogurt for a plant-based version that maintains rich flavors.
  • Mediterranean Herb Remix: Incorporate feta cheese, swap basil for oregano, and add chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a Greek-inspired transformation of the original recipe.
  • Protein-Packed Seafood Edition: Replace chicken with chunks of white fish or shrimp, maintaining the same creamy spinach artichoke base for a seafood-friendly adaptation.

Serving Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake for Any Meal

  • Cozy Family Dinner Delight: Pair this hearty chicken bake with fluffy white rice or quinoa to soak up the creamy sauce and add extra nutrition.
  • Mediterranean Platter Partner: Serve alongside a crisp Greek salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and kalamata olives to balance the rich, cheesy flavors.
  • Low-Carb Veggie Companion: Create a side of roasted zucchini spears or cauliflower rice for a lighter, vegetable-forward meal that complements the dish's creamy texture.
  • Fresh Herb Finish: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley on top just before serving to add a bright, herbal note that cuts through the richness of the cheese.

Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake Storage Advice

  • Store cooled chicken bake in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keeps fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
  • Transfer to freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags. Freeze up to 2 months. Wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn and maintain flavor.
  • Place individual serving on microwave-safe plate. Heat at 50% power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Add splash of milk to restore creamy texture.
  • Preheat oven to 350F. Cover dish with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165F. Remove foil last 5 minutes for crispy cheese top.

FAQs

  • Is this recipe low-carb friendly?

Yes, this Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake is naturally low-carb and fits perfectly into ketogenic and low-carbohydrate diet plans. The recipe focuses on protein and healthy fats from chicken, cheese, and yogurt.

  • Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Absolutely! For frozen spinach, thaw it completely and squeeze out all excess moisture before adding to the cheese mixture. This ensures your dish doesn’t become watery and maintains the right creamy consistency.

  • What type of chicken works best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal, but you can also use chicken thighs for a slightly more tender result. Just ensure the chicken is cut into uniform thin slices for even cooking.

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Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake Recipe

Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake Recipe


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4.7 from 30 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Spinach artichoke chicken bake brings classic comfort to weeknight dinners with creamy, cheesy goodness. Mediterranean flavors meld perfectly with tender chicken and rich, tangy sauce for a memorable meal you’ll savor.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein & Main Components:

  • 1.5 pounds (680 grams) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Dairy & Cheese:

  • 8 ounces (226 grams) Neufchatel cheese, softened
  • 2/3 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 cup small curd cottage cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons shredded parmesan cheese

Vegetables & Seasonings:

  • 14 ounces (397 grams) artichoke hearts packed in water, drained
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F and lightly grease an 8×8 baking dish with cooking spray to ensure easy release and prevent sticking.
  2. Slice chicken breasts lengthwise, then cut into thin strips against the grain for even cooking. Sauté in olive oil over medium heat for 6-8 minutes until fully opaque, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat, drain excess liquid, and season with salt and pepper.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, blend Neufchatel cheese, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, mozzarella, parmesan, garlic powder, dried basil, and onion powder until smooth and creamy.
  4. Finely chop drained artichoke hearts and spinach to distribute evenly throughout the mixture. Gently fold these vegetables into the cheese blend.
  5. Incorporate the cooked chicken into the cheese and vegetable mixture, ensuring all ingredients are well-coated and distributed.
  6. Transfer the combined mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top for a golden, crispy finish.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is completely melted and bubbly. For an extra crispy top, broil for 4-5 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
  8. Remove from oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving hot, allowing the dish to set and flavors to meld together.

Notes

  • Slice chicken uniformly to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the dish.
  • Use room temperature cream cheese for smoother blending and easier mixing with other ingredients.
  • Consider draining spinach and artichoke thoroughly to prevent excess moisture in the final casserole.
  • Low-fat dairy alternatives work perfectly without compromising rich, creamy flavor profile.
  • For gluten-free version, verify all cheese and dairy products are certified gluten-free.
  • Add red pepper flakes for subtle heat and extra flavor complexity if desired.
  • Fresh herbs like parsley or chives make excellent garnish and brighten overall presentation.
  • Leftovers stay delicious when stored in airtight container and reheated gently in oven.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 40g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg
Clara Thompson

Clara Thompson

Recipe Developer & Food Educator

Expertise

Plant-based and vegetarian recipe development, Nutritional analysis and meal planning, Culinary education and workshop facilitation, Content writing with a focus on healthy living​

Education

Diploma in Culinary Arts, Mt. San Jacinto College, CA
Focus: Comprehensive culinary training with an emphasis on sustainable cooking practices.

Certificate in Nutrition and Healthy Living, Cornell University (Online Program)
Focus: Understanding the principles of nutrition to create balanced and health-conscious recipes.


Clara lives where fresh ideas and fresh ingredients meet. She pairs her culinary know-how with her passion for healthy, planet-friendly cooking.
For Clara, good food should taste great, nourish your body, and feel easy to make. Her recipes highlight whole foods, colorful produce, and a deep respect for seasonal eating.

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