If you’re looking for a flavorful, comforting dish that’s both wholesome and indulgent, the Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake Recipe is an absolute must-try. This dish perfectly combines tender chicken breasts baked under a luscious layer of creamy spinach and tangy artichokes, all crowned with melted mozzarella cheese. It’s a delightful fusion of fresh greens and cheesy goodness that comes together effortlessly, making it a go-to for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this recipe just right is all about using simple, fresh ingredients that work in harmony to create a rich, satisfying flavor profile. Each component adds something vital—whether it’s the juicy chicken, the vibrant spinach, or the creamy artichoke blend—every ingredient plays a starring role.
- 4 (6-8 oz) chicken breasts: Choose fresh, boneless chicken breasts for tender meat that bakes evenly.
- 2 cups packed baby spinach, roughly chopped: Adds a vibrant color and a mild, fresh flavor that perfectly balances the dish.
- 1 cup plain low-fat yogurt: This adds creaminess and a touch of tang without heaviness, making the bake lighter but still rich.
- 1 cup marinated artichoke hearts, drained and roughly chopped: Brings a subtle acidity and heartiness, boosting the dish’s complexity.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds a gentle kick and depth of flavor that elevates the creamy mixture.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the dish with subtle warmth and aroma without overpowering other flavors.
- 8 slices mozzarella cheese: The crowning glory—melts beautifully to create a golden, bubbly topping that pulls the whole dish together.
How to Make Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by heating your oven to 400ºF. This high temperature ensures the chicken cooks evenly and the cheese on top gets perfectly golden and bubbly.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Spinach Artichoke Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the chopped spinach, low-fat yogurt, marinated artichokes, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder. Stir everything together until the mixture is creamy and evenly blended. This combination is what brings the classic spinach artichoke dip flavors into your chicken bake, creating a creamy, tangy layer that locks in moisture and flavor.
Step 3: Arrange the Chicken and Topping
Place the chicken breasts in a single layer in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spoon the spinach and artichoke mixture evenly over each chicken breast, making sure every bite will be packed with that delicious creamy topping. Then, lay two slices of mozzarella on top of each chicken breast. Overlapping the cheese is perfectly fine—it melts into a luscious blanket that adds an irresistible gooey texture.
Step 4: Bake and Rest
Transfer the dish to the oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF and is cooked through. Depending on the size of your chicken breasts, baking times may vary slightly. After baking, let the dish rest for 3 to 5 minutes before serving—this helps the juices redistribute and makes the chicken even juicier.
How to Serve Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake Recipe
Garnishes
For a final touch, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or basil over the top. A light dusting of cracked black pepper or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also brighten the rich flavors beautifully, adding freshness and a splash of color that makes the dish pop.
Side Dishes
This chicken bake pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with garlic roasted potatoes, a crisp green salad, or even steamed rice to soak up the creamy topping. For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice or roasted vegetables complement the dish without overwhelming the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to elevate the presentation for guests, try plating each chicken breast individually with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a dollop of extra Greek yogurt on the side. Serving in shallow bowls can also make the dish feel more rustic and homey, perfect for cozy dinners that feel warm and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooked and cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The spinach artichoke chicken bake tastes great the next day once flavors have had time to meld even further.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, making it a fantastic meal prep option. To freeze, place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly with plastic and aluminum foil. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, pop leftovers in the oven at 350ºF until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Using the oven keeps the cheese from becoming rubbery and helps maintain the chicken’s juicy texture. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the dish’s best qualities.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach?
Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach, but make sure to thoroughly drain and squeeze out as much moisture as possible to prevent your bake from becoming watery.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! The Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake Recipe stores well and tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for preparing in advance and reheating.
Can I swap the low-fat yogurt for sour cream or cream cheese?
Yes, sour cream or cream cheese can be used, but they will make the dish richer and slightly heavier. Yogurt keeps the bake lighter and adds a subtle tang.
How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 165ºF. The juices should also run clear when the chicken is pierced.
Can I use other types of cheese instead of mozzarella?
You can experiment with cheeses like provolone, fontina, or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that mozzarella offers the best melt and mild flavor that complements the spinach artichoke mix.
Final Thoughts
This Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake Recipe is a true winner—combining comfort food vibes with fresh, vibrant ingredients for a meal that feels both special and simple. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, it’s one of those dishes that brings warmth and joy every time it hits the table. Give it a try, and I promise it’ll become one of your favorite go-to recipes too!
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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
A delicious and healthy Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake featuring tender chicken breasts topped with a creamy spinach, artichoke, and yogurt mixture, all melted under layers of mozzarella cheese. This easy-to-make baked dish is perfect for weeknight dinners and combines wholesome ingredients for a flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 (6-8 oz) chicken breasts
Spinach Artichoke Mixture
- 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
Topping
- 8 slices mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400ºF (204ºC), ensuring it reaches the proper temperature for baking the chicken evenly.
- Prepare Spinach Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the roughly chopped baby spinach, plain low-fat yogurt, drained and chopped marinated artichoke hearts, garlic powder, and Dijon mustard. Mix thoroughly to create a creamy, flavorful topping mixture.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Place the chicken breasts in a single layer inside a 9×13 inch baking dish. Evenly spread the spinach and artichoke mixture over each chicken breast. Then, lay 2 slices of mozzarella cheese atop each piece of chicken, allowing them to overlap as needed to cover the surface well.
- Bake the Chicken: Transfer the prepared dish to the oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF (74ºC) to ensure it is fully cooked. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts.
- Rest and Serve: After baking, remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in moist and tender chicken. Serve warm and enjoy your Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake.
Notes
- Make sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken to confirm it is fully cooked.
- You can substitute the low-fat yogurt with Greek yogurt for a thicker texture.
- Artichoke hearts packed in water are preferred to avoid extra oil and calories.
- Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.
