This Easy Low-Carb Chicken Spinach Mushroom Bake is a fantastic dish that’s packed with flavor. It’s loaded with tender chicken, fresh spinach, and juicy mushrooms, all baked together!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great because they cook quickly and stay tender. If you prefer, use chicken thighs for extra flavor, or even turkey cutlets!
Mushrooms: I love using cremini mushrooms for their rich taste, but you can substitute with white button mushrooms or even portobello if you want a meaty texture.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is a must for this dish. If it’s not available, you can use frozen spinach—just make sure to squeeze out the excess moisture after thawing.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, try half-and-half or even unsweetened almond milk. They won’t be as creamy, but they’ll keep the dish low-carb!
Cheese: Mozzarella is delicious here, but feel free to mix it up! Cheddar or gouda can also add a nice twist. If you’re dairy-free, there are great dairy-free cheese options on the market.
How Do I Sear Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Searing chicken locks in flavor and gets a nice golden crust. It’s easier than it sounds, just follow these steps!
- Start with a hot skillet—medium-high heat is perfect. This helps avoid sticking.
- Add olive oil and let it heat up until it shimmers, then place the chicken in the skillet. Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if needed.
- Cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side without moving it. This establishes a nice sear.
- Once both sides are golden brown, remove the chicken and let it rest. This keeps it juicy!
Easy Low-Carb Chicken Spinach Mushroom Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 20-25 minutes to cook, so plan for about 35-40 minutes total. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that heats up, season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This adds great flavor right from the start!
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet or pan over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully place your chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Veggies:
In the same skillet, toss in the sliced mushrooms. Let them cook for about 5 minutes until they’re tender and brown. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until it smells wonderful.
4. Add the Spinach & Cream:
Now, add the fresh spinach to the skillet. Cook it until it wilts down—this will happen quickly! Pour in the heavy cream, sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, and add the red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Let everything simmer together for a few minutes until it thickens a little.
5. Assemble the Bake:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, placing them on top of the mushroom-spinach mixture. Spoon some sauce over the chicken to keep it moist. Then, sprinkle both the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over everything.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C), and the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven. Garnish your dish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy this easy, healthy, and low-carb chicken bake with a smile!
FAQ for Easy Low-Carb Chicken Spinach Mushroom Bake
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s essential to thaw them completely before cooking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for a quick thaw. Pat them dry before seasoning to ensure a good sear!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. You can also add a splash of cream to refresh the sauce if needed!
Can I Substitute Spinach with Other Greens?
Absolutely! While fresh spinach is ideal, you can use kale or Swiss chard as alternatives. Just make sure to cook them until tender. If using frozen greens, be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
What Can I Serve This Dish With?
This cozy bake pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables. For a heartier option, consider serving it over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles to keep it low-carb while adding extra veggies!
