If you are looking for a dish that brings together creamy, cheesy, and wholesome flavors in one satisfying meal, you have to try this Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake Recipe. It combines tender, lean chicken breasts with a luscious spinach and artichoke topping, all crowned by gooey melted mozzarella. This dish feels like a warm embrace on a plate, offering a deliciously comforting way to enjoy a nutritious dinner that’s quick to prepare but impressive enough for guests or a family feast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet flavorful ingredients is key to making this Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake Recipe shine. Each component adds something special, whether it’s freshness from the spinach, a tangy bite from the artichokes, or creamy richness from the yogurt and cheese.
- Chicken breasts (4, 6-8 oz each): Lean and juicy, they’re the hearty base of the dish that soak up all those creamy flavors.
- Baby spinach (2 cups, roughly chopped): Brings vibrant color and a mild earthiness that balances the richness beautifully.
- Plain low-fat yogurt (1 cup): Adds creaminess without heaviness and keeps the topping light yet luscious.
- Marinated artichoke hearts (1 cup, drained and chopped): Provides a tangy, slightly briny note that elevates the entire bake.
- Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon): Gives a subtle kick and depth, tying all the flavors together.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses savory warmth that enhances the overall profile.
- Mozzarella cheese slices (8 slices): Melts into a golden, stretchy topping that makes every bite irresistibly gooey.
How to Make Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Chicken
Begin by preheating your oven to 400ºF. This is important because a hot oven ensures the chicken cooks evenly and the topping bubbles just right. Meanwhile, lay your chicken breasts in a single layer in a 9×13 baking dish, making sure they have enough room so they roast rather than steam.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Topping
In a large bowl, combine the chopped spinach, plain low-fat yogurt, drained artichokes, garlic powder, and Dijon mustard. This mixture forms the signature creamy layer of the Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake Recipe, offering a delightful flavor pop with every mouthful. Give it a good stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 3: Assemble the Bake
Spoon the spinach and artichoke mixture evenly over each chicken breast, making sure to cover them generously for that perfect creamy coating. Then, place two slices of mozzarella cheese over the top of each breast. Overlapping the slices is perfectly fine — this ensures an even, cheesy blanket that bakes up beautifully golden and gooey.
Step 4: Bake Until Perfectly Cooked
Slide your baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes. Cooking times can vary depending on the size of your chicken breasts, so it’s best to check that the internal temperature has reached 165ºF to confirm doneness. When ready, let the bake rest for 3 to 5 minutes before serving — this helps the juices redistribute, keeping each bite tender and juicy.
How to Serve Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil adds a bright herbal contrast and a pop of color to the creamy Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake Recipe. For a little zing, a light drizzle of lemon juice or even a few twists of cracked black pepper can elevate the flavors right at the table.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides that won’t compete but gently complement its creamy nature. Think garlic roasted potatoes, fluffy rice pilaf, or even a crisp side salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style meal, serve the spinach artichoke chicken bake directly from the baking dish, inviting everyone to dig in. Alternatively, plating each breast with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a spoonful of your favorite pesto can make it look restaurant-worthy while adding extra layers of flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers from the Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually intensify after resting, but it’s best enjoyed within 3 days for optimal freshness and taste.
Freezing
You can freeze portions individually by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen spinach artichoke chicken bake keeps well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, place your leftover chicken bake in a preheated 350ºF oven until warmed through and the cheese is melty again. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes. Microwaving is an option but may result in a less crisp cheese topping.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach but make sure to thaw and drain it very well to avoid extra moisture making the topping watery. Fresh spinach is ideal for the best texture but frozen is a convenient alternative.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Absolutely! The Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake Recipe reheats well and leftovers taste great for several days. It’s a tasty option to batch cook for busy weeknights or packed lunches.
What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
If you’re out of Dijon, a small amount of yellow mustard can work, or even skip it altogether — though the mustard does add a nice subtle tang that enhances the overall flavor.
Can I use a different cheese?
Mozzarella is perfect for melting and mild flavor, but feel free to experiment with provolone, Monterey Jack, or even a sprinkle of parmesan for a sharper twist.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest and most reliable method is to use a meat thermometer. Chicken is cooked thoroughly at an internal temperature of 165ºF. Cutting into the chicken to check is okay but will release juices, which might dry it out slightly.
Final Thoughts
This Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake Recipe is one of those golden dishes that’s incredibly easy yet delivers restaurant-quality wow. Creamy, cheesy, and full of fresh, wholesome ingredients, it’s a recipe you’ll want in your regular rotation. Give it a try—you’ll soon wonder how you ever enjoyed chicken any other way!
Print
Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake features tender chicken breasts topped with a creamy, healthy spinach and artichoke mixture, all melted under a layer of mozzarella cheese. It’s a simple, flavorful bake perfect for a nutritious dinner that combines lean protein with vibrant greens and cheesy goodness.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 (6-8 oz) chicken breasts
Spinach Artichoke Topping
- 2 cups packed baby spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup plain low-fat yogurt
- 1 cup marinated artichoke hearts, drained and roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 8 slices mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400ºF (200ºC) to prepare for baking the chicken evenly and quickly.
- Prepare the Spinach Artichoke Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the roughly chopped spinach, plain low-fat yogurt, drained and chopped marinated artichoke hearts, garlic powder, and Dijon mustard. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Arrange Chicken Breasts: Place the chicken breasts in a single layer inside a 9×13-inch baking dish, ensuring they are evenly spaced for uniform cooking.
- Add Topping and Cheese: Evenly spread the spinach and artichoke mixture over each chicken breast. Then, lay two slices of mozzarella cheese on top of each breast. Overlapping slices is okay to ensure full coverage.
- Bake the Chicken: Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes. Cooking time may vary depending on the size of the chicken breasts. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF (74ºC).
- Rest and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes to retain its juices and enhance flavor before serving.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached a safe internal temperature of 165ºF.
- If chicken breasts are larger than 8 oz, increase baking time slightly to ensure doneness.
- For extra flavor, marinate chicken breasts briefly in olive oil, salt, and pepper before baking.
- This dish pairs well with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.
- Low-fat yogurt keeps the topping creamy but feel free to substitute with Greek yogurt for added protein.
