If you’re looking for a comforting yet healthy chicken dinner that feels indulgent but fits into a balanced lifestyle, this Chicken, Spinach, and Mushroom Bake is exactly what you need. Packed with lean protein, nutrient-dense vegetables, and a creamy, savory sauce, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even a casual dinner party.
This recipe is especially popular among people searching for healthy chicken casserole recipes, low-carb chicken dinners, keto chicken bakes, and high-protein family meals—all of which are high-CPM keywords in food and wellness content. Best of all, it’s easy to customize, naturally gluten-free, and can be made lighter or richer depending on your preferences.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Bake
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High in protein and iron
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Naturally low-carb and keto-friendly
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One-pan oven-baked recipe (easy cleanup!)
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Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
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Family-friendly and customizable
The combination of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and vibrant spinach creates a well-balanced flavor profile, while the creamy sauce brings everything together without overpowering the ingredients.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
Protein
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2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-size pieces)
Vegetables
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2 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen, thawed and squeezed dry)
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1½ cups mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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½ small onion, finely chopped (optional)
Sauce
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1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
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½ cup chicken broth
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½ cup grated mozzarella or cheddar cheese
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings
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1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
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½ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp paprika
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½ tsp dried Italian seasoning
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Pinch of nutmeg (optional but recommended)
Cooking Fat
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2 tbsp olive oil or butter
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a medium baking dish with olive oil or butter and set aside.
2. Sauté the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook for 5–6 minutes until lightly golden (they don’t need to be fully cooked yet). Remove and set aside.
3. Cook the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining oil. Sauté onions (if using) until soft, then add garlic and mushrooms. Cook until the mushrooms release their moisture and become golden brown. Stir in the spinach and cook just until wilted.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce
Lower the heat and pour in the chicken broth and cream. Stir gently, then add Italian seasoning, nutmeg, and half of the cheeses. Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Assemble the Bake
Return the chicken to the skillet and mix well. Transfer everything into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan evenly on top.
6. Bake
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the top is bubbly and lightly golden.
7. Rest and Serve
Let the bake rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce set and enhances flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is incredibly versatile. Serve it with:
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Steamed rice or quinoa (for a balanced meal)
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Zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice (low-carb option)
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Garlic bread or dinner rolls
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A fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
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Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
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Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months (cream sauces may slightly change texture)
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Reheat: Oven or stovetop reheating works best for maintaining creaminess
Recipe Variations
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Keto Chicken Spinach Bake: Use full-fat cream and extra cheese
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Dairy-Free Version: Substitute coconut cream and dairy-free cheese
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High-Protein Meal Prep: Add extra chicken or mix in chickpeas (non-keto)
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Spicy Version: Add red chili flakes or cayenne pepper
Related Questions (High-CPM SEO FAQ Section)
Is Chicken, Spinach, and Mushroom Bake healthy?
Yes. This dish is rich in lean protein, iron, calcium, and antioxidants, making it ideal for healthy dinner recipes and clean eating meal plans.
Can this recipe be used for weight loss?
Absolutely. With simple substitutions like light cream or reduced cheese, it fits well into weight loss meal plans and low-calorie chicken recipes.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes. It’s naturally low in carbohydrates and works perfectly as a keto chicken casserole.
Can I make this chicken bake ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready—ideal for meal prep recipes.
What mushrooms work best for chicken bake recipes?
Cremini, button, or baby bella mushrooms are best for creamy chicken and mushroom dishes due to their flavor and texture.
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, just make sure to squeeze out all excess moisture to avoid a watery bake.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken, Spinach, and Mushroom Bake is the perfect balance of comfort and nutrition. Whether you’re cooking for your family, prepping meals for the week, or searching for a high-protein healthy dinner recipe, this dish delivers every time.
