If you’re a fan of classic spinach artichoke dip, you’re going to love this Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake! This easy, creamy dish combines tender chicken breasts with a rich spinach-artichoke topping, all baked under a layer of melty mozzarella. Perfect for weeknights or casual entertaining, it’s a meal that feels indulgent but is simple to prepare. Pair it with a side of rice, quinoa, or a green salad for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and creamy: It combines the beloved flavors of spinach artichoke dip with juicy chicken.
- Easy to prepare: Just mix, spread, and bake—it’s a great recipe for busy evenings.
- Crowd-pleaser: The creamy, cheesy topping makes this dish a hit with both kids and adults.
- Make-ahead option: Assemble ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake when you’re ready.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (or 1/2 cup frozen, thawed and drained)
- 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)
Tools You’ll Need
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula or spoon
- Small brush (for greasing the baking dish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Place them in the greased baking dish in an even layer.
Step 3: Make the Spinach Artichoke Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), minced garlic, chopped spinach, chopped artichoke hearts, 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until everything is well mixed and creamy.
Step 4: Spread the Mixture
Spoon the spinach artichoke mixture evenly over each chicken breast, spreading it to cover the top of the chicken.
Step 5: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese over the spinach artichoke mixture to create a cheesy top layer.
Step 6: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
Step 7: Serve
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle. Serve warm with a side of rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Tips for the Best Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake
- Add a bit of heat: If you like a hint of spice, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the topping before baking.
- Use fresh spinach if possible: Fresh spinach gives the best flavor, but if using frozen, make sure it’s well drained to avoid excess moisture.
- Make it in advance: Prepare the dish and cover it tightly in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy, cheesy chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides:
- Rice or quinoa: These grains soak up the delicious flavors from the creamy sauce.
- Roasted or steamed vegetables: Try broccoli, asparagus, or green beans for a balanced meal.
- Garlic bread: Perfect for scooping up every bit of the spinach artichoke mixture.
- Green salad: A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the dish.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Assemble and freeze before baking, or freeze leftovers after baking.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well in this recipe, but may require a slightly longer baking time.
Is there a lower-fat option?
For a lighter version, use light cream cheese and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
What if I don’t have fresh garlic?
You can substitute with 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, though fresh garlic adds the best flavor.
Wrapping Up: A Comforting, Flavorful Dish for Any Night
This Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake is an easy yet elegant recipe that combines the rich flavors of spinach and artichoke with juicy baked chicken. Perfect for family dinners or even a special occasion, it’s a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that’s sure to impress!
More Delicious Recipes to Try:
- Chicken Parmesan Casserole: Layers of chicken, marinara, and cheese baked to perfection.
- Baked Garlic Butter Chicken: Simple, savory chicken with a rich garlic butter sauce.
- Creamy Tuscan Chicken: Loaded with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Parmesan for an Italian-inspired meal.
Did You Make This Recipe?
Share your feedback below, or tag your photos with #SpinachArtichokeChickenBake on social media. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite! 🧄🍗
