If you are craving a comforting, flavorful meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than this Chicken, Spinach, and Mushroom Low-Carb Oven Bake Recipe. Its creamy textures paired with tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and vibrant spinach come together in perfect harmony, creating a wholesome dish that not only pleases your taste buds but also fits beautifully into a low-carb lifestyle. You’ll love how this recipe balances indulgence and health with every cheesy, garlicky bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the secret to making this Chicken, Spinach, and Mushroom Low-Carb Oven Bake Recipe shine. Each component plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color, making the cooking process both straightforward and rewarding.
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces: The star protein, tender and perfect for absorbing savory flavors.
- 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped: Adds vibrant color and a mild, earthy taste that balances richness.
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced: Bring an umami depth and satisfying texture contrast.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create that irresistible gooey layer.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty kick on top for extra flavor.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: The creamy base that ties everything together with lusciousness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with fragrant warmth and spice.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Brings subtle sweetness and aromatic depth.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for sautéing vegetables and enriching flavors.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A classic herb that enhances savory notes.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds an earthy, slightly minty undertone.
- Salt and pepper to taste: The final seasoning touches that elevate all ingredients.
How to Make Chicken, Spinach, and Mushroom Low-Carb Oven Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready to go when you finish the stovetop steps. Cutting your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces ensures they cook evenly and soak up all the delicious flavors from the veggies and cream.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and add finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Cooking them until translucent and fragrant—about 3 to 4 minutes—creates a savory flavor foundation that will carry through the entire dish.
Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms
Toss in the sliced mushrooms and let them soften, releasing their earthy aroma and juices. Stir occasionally and keep cooking for 5 to 6 minutes until they’re lightly browned, adding wonderful texture and richness.
Step 4: Wilt the Spinach
Stir in the chopped spinach and cook just until wilted, roughly 2 minutes. This quick step preserves the vibrant green color and fresh flavor, making the dish look as good as it tastes.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Veggies
Remove the skillet from heat, then transfer the vegetable mixture into a large mixing bowl. Add the chicken pieces and season everything with dried oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. This combination of herbs adds a fragrant Mediterranean vibe that’s so satisfying.
Step 6: Add Cream and Cheese
Pour in the heavy cream and stir in half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Gently fold the ingredients together to coat every bite-sized chicken piece, creating a rich, creamy base that bakes into a luscious casserole.
Step 7: Assemble and Bake
Grease a baking dish and spread the mixture evenly inside. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top, ensuring a golden, bubbly cheese crust forms in the oven. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the cheese has melted to perfection.
Step 8: Let It Rest
After baking, give the dish a few minutes to cool slightly. This resting time helps all the flavors settle and makes serving easier without losing any of that delicious juiciness.
How to Serve Chicken, Spinach, and Mushroom Low-Carb Oven Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Top your warm bake with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil for a burst of color and freshness. A light sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes adds just the right amount of heat, if you enjoy a little kick. These small touches elevate the final presentation beautifully.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp garden salads, roasted vegetables, or even cauliflower rice to keep things low-carb while adding a contrasting crunch or texture. The creamy, cheesy nature of the bake balances perfectly with lighter, fresh sides.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this bake in individual ramekins for personalized portions at gatherings. Alternatively, scoop it over a bed of zoodles or spiralized squash for a comfort-filled yet vegetable-heavy meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for quick lunches or easy dinners midweek.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish by placing it in a freezer-safe container. It’s best enjoyed within 2 months for optimal taste and texture. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best reheating results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly, about 15 to 20 minutes. You can also microwave portions, but the oven method keeps the cheese nice and melty without getting soggy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh for this recipe?
Absolutely! If using frozen spinach, be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the skillet to avoid a watery bake.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a mixture of cream cheese and milk for a similar creamy texture. Just keep in mind the flavor may shift slightly.
Can I add other vegetables to the bake?
Definitely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or even kale make excellent additions. Just sauté them with the onions and mushrooms to soften before combining.
How low-carb is this recipe?
This dish is designed with low-carb ingredients in mind, primarily focusing on protein, leafy greens, and mushrooms with minimal carbohydrates, making it ideal for low-carb and keto-friendly diets.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep! It stores well in the fridge and reheats nicely, giving you a nutritious and flavorful low-carb option throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
You’ve just discovered a wonderful staple in the Chicken, Spinach, and Mushroom Low-Carb Oven Bake Recipe. Not only is it simple and satisfying, but it also proves that eating low-carb doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or comfort. I can’t wait for you to make this dish, share it with loved ones, and enjoy all the warm, cheesy goodness it brings to your table.
Print
Chicken, Spinach, and Mushroom Low-Carb Oven Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
A flavorful and hearty low-carb oven-baked dish featuring tender chicken breasts combined with sautéed spinach and mushrooms, all baked in a creamy garlic sauce topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
Ingredients
Chicken & Vegetables
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy & Cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Others
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking the dish.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until they become translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes, creating a flavorful base.
- Cook Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally until they soften and get lightly browned, adding depth to the dish.
- Wilt Spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for about 2 minutes until it wilts down. Then remove the skillet from heat to prevent overcooking.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the bite-sized chicken pieces with the sautéed vegetables. Season the mixture with dried oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream and add half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir gently to coat all ingredients evenly, creating a creamy texture.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the chicken and vegetable mixture into a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top for a cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the baking dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the cheese topping is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes after baking. Serve warm for a comforting, low-carb meal.
Notes
- Feel free to substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, though the dish may be less rich.
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a more tender, juicy result.
- Fresh herbs like basil or parsley make a great garnish for extra color and flavor.
- Ensure the chicken pieces are similar in size to cook evenly throughout the dish.
- This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to keep it low-carb.
