Chicken spinach mushroom bake is a creamy, savory one-pan dish that brings together tender chicken breasts, sautéed mushrooms, and wilted spinach in a rich garlic-Parmesan cream sauce. This easy and elegant recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining, offering both comfort and nutrition in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is a flavorful blend of creamy, cheesy, and garlicky elements, balanced with the earthy taste of mushrooms and the freshness of spinach. It’s made in one oven-safe skillet, making cleanup simple. The garlic-Parmesan cream sauce adds richness without being overly heavy, and the chicken bakes to tender perfection in under 40 minutes. It’s keto-friendly, low-carb, and crowd-pleasing—ideal for any night of the week.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add sliced mushrooms. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic and spinach, cooking until spinach is wilted.
- Pour in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine and simmer for 2 minutes.
- Return chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over the top.
- Transfer skillet to the oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4 servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Cheesy Upgrade: Add shredded mozzarella on top before baking for a cheesy finish.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute with coconut cream and dairy-free cheese.
- Add Veggies: Include chopped sun-dried tomatoes or bell peppers for added flavor and color.
- Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- Protein Swap: Use turkey cutlets or boneless pork chops instead of chicken.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a covered skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Freezing is not recommended due to the cream-based sauce, which may separate when thawed.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless thighs work perfectly and tend to stay juicier when baked.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s low in carbs and high in healthy fats and protein, ideal for a keto lifestyle.
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding to avoid excess liquid.
What kind of mushrooms work best?
Cremini or white button mushrooms are excellent choices, but you can also use portobello or shiitake.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Can I make this ahead?
You can prepare the sauce and chicken separately a day in advance and bake them together when ready to serve.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish or two skillets to accommodate.
How do I make it spicier?
Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the cream sauce.
Can I make this without an oven-safe skillet?
Yes, transfer everything to a baking dish before placing it in the oven.
What sides go well with this dish?
Serve with rice, mashed cauliflower, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Chicken spinach mushroom bake is a deliciously creamy and savory dish that combines wholesome ingredients with rich flavor. It’s quick to prepare, simple to clean up, and easy to customize, making it perfect for weeknights or special occasions. With tender chicken, fresh spinach, mushrooms, and a comforting garlic-Parmesan sauce, this recipe is a surefire crowd-pleaser you’ll return to again and again.
Print
Chicken Spinach Mushroom Bake
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Chicken Spinach Mushroom Bake is a creamy, one-pan wonder packed with juicy chicken breasts, sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, and a rich garlic Parmesan cream sauce. It’s a comforting yet low-carb dinner that’s easy enough for weeknights and delicious enough for entertaining.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
- Add mushrooms to the skillet and cook until soft. Stir in garlic and spinach; cook until wilted.
- Pour in heavy cream, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir and simmer for 2 minutes.
- Return chicken to skillet, spoon sauce over it, and bake for 15 minutes, or until chicken is fully cooked through.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs for a juicier result.
- Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for extra depth.
- Serve over cauliflower rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Dinner
- Method: Searing, Baking
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired