@315justme: Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 30–35 minutes Total Time: 45–50 minutes Servings: 4 Calories: Approximately 420 kcal per serving Ingredients For the Chicken 1½ lb (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces 1 tbsp olive oil 1 tsp Italian seasoning ½ tsp smoked paprika ½ tsp garlic powder ½ tsp salt ¼ tsp black pepper For the Spinach and Mushroom Mixture 2 tbsp unsalted butter 10 oz (280 g) mushrooms, sliced 4 cups (120 g) fresh baby spinach 3 garlic cloves, minced ½ small yellow onion, finely diced, optional ¼ tsp salt ¼ tsp black pepper For the Creamy Cheese Sauce 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese ½ tsp Italian seasoning ¼ tsp ground nutmeg, optional ½ cup (50 g) shredded mozzarella cheese For the Topping ¾ cup (75 g) shredded mozzarella cheese 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese 1 tsp fresh parsley, chopped, optional Instructions Preheat the oven: Heat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9 × 13-inch (23 × 33 cm) baking dish. Season the chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a bowl and toss with olive oil, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Sear the chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer and sear for 3–4 minutes, turning occasionally, until lightly golden on the outside. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked yet. Transfer to a plate. Cook the mushrooms: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and optional onion. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their moisture and become golden. Add the garlic and spinach: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add the spinach in batches and cook until wilted, about 2–3 minutes. If excess liquid collects in the pan, drain it carefully to keep the bake creamy rather than watery. Prepare the creamy sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Add the cream cheese and heavy cream, stirring until smooth. Mix in the Parmesan, Italian seasoning, optional nutmeg, and ½ cup mozzarella. Stir until the cheese melts into a rich sauce. Season to taste. Combine everything: Return the chicken and any accumulated juices to the skillet. Stir until the chicken, mushrooms, and spinach are evenly coated in the creamy sauce. Transfer to the baking dish: Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan over the top. Bake until golden: Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the sauce is bubbling, the cheese is golden, and the thickest pieces of chicken reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Rest and serve: Let the bake rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired. Serving Suggestions Serve this creamy chicken bake with roasted broccoli, garlic green beans, cauliflower mash, or a crisp green salad. For a heartier meal, pair it with roasted zucchini or cauliflower rice to keep the meal low in carbohydrates. Tips for the Best Chicken Bake Avoid watery mushrooms: Cook them until their moisture has evaporated before adding the cream sauce. Use room-temperature cream cheese: It blends more easily and helps create a smooth sauce. Don't overcook the chicken: Searing first adds flavor, while finishing in the oven keeps the chicken tender. Use a thermometer to check for 165°F (74°C). Choose fresh or frozen spinach: If using frozen spinach, thaw it completely and squeeze out as much liquid as possible before adding it. Customize the cheese: Gruyère, provolone, or Monterey Jack can replace some of the mozzarella for a different flavor. Add extra flavor: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a few chopped sun-dried tomatoes can give the dish a delicious twist Estimated per serving: 420 calories, 43 g protein, 9 g carbohydrates, 24 g fat, 2 g fiber, and 680 mg sodium. #whatsfordinner? #chickenrecipes

CatjustMe

Open In TikTok:

Region: US

Tuesday 20 October 2026 12:08:51 GMT