Cheesy Chicken, Spinach & Mushroom Low Carb Bake

Cheesy Chicken, Spinach & Mushroom Low Carb Bake

If you’re craving a wholesome, comforting meal that’s packed with flavor and won’t derail your low carb lifestyle, then this Cheesy Chicken, Spinach & Mushroom Low Carb Bake is the answer. Imagine tender chicken, sautéed mushrooms, and vibrant spinach all nestled in a creamy cheese sauce, baked until bubbly and golden—it’s an easy, satisfying dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe blends simplicity with nutrition perfectly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Simple: Minimal prep steps make this bake perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Low Carb Friendly: Keeps carbs low without sacrificing creamy, cheesy goodness.
  • Rich Nutrient Profile: Spinach and mushrooms add a boost of vitamins and antioxidants.
  • Family Favorite: It’s satisfying and flavorful, appealing to both kids and adults.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep: Makes great leftovers that reheat beautifully without drying out.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient plays a key role in building the rich layers of texture and flavor in this dish. From juicy chicken that serves as your protein base to creamy cheeses that bind everything, every component is simple but essential.

  • Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless, cut into bite-size pieces for even cooking.
  • Fresh spinach: Adds a vibrant color and nutrient-packed green freshness.
  • Mushrooms: Sliced button or cremini mushrooms bring umami depth.
  • Shredded cheese blend: A mix of mozzarella and cheddar for meltiness and tang.
  • Heavy cream or cream cheese: Creates the creamy texture that ties all ingredients together.
  • Garlic and onion: For aromatic flavor boost that complements the veggies.
  • Olive oil or butter: To sauté mushrooms and spinach and add richness.
  • Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and optional herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra fragrance.

Variations for Cheesy Chicken, Spinach & Mushroom Low Carb Bake

This dish is incredibly adaptable, so feel free to mix and match ingredients or tweak it to fit your dietary needs or flavor preferences.

  • Swap chicken for turkey: Use ground turkey or diced turkey breast for a leaner alternative.
  • Add bell peppers: For a colorful crunch and natural sweetness.
  • Use dairy-free cheese: Perfect for those with lactose intolerance or vegan needs.
  • Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika to give the bake a kick.
  • Include nuts: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top for extra texture.
Easy Cheesy Chicken, Spinach & Mushroom Low Carb Bake

How to Make Cheesy Chicken, Spinach & Mushroom Low Carb Bake

Step 1: Prepare and Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped garlic and onion, cooking until fragrant and translucent. Toss in sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their juices and begin to brown. Finally, add fresh spinach, stirring until just wilted.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In the same skillet or separately, lightly season chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then cook over medium-high heat until golden on all sides and fully cooked through. This step seals in moisture and enhances flavor.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients with Cream and Cheese

Lower the heat and stir heavy cream or cream cheese into the cooked chicken and veggies. Mix until creamy. Take half of the shredded cheese and stir it into the mixture, saving the rest for topping.

Step 4: Assemble the Bake

Transfer the creamy mixture into a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top for that golden, bubbly crust we all love.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

Pop the dish into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly browned on top. Let it rest a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Chicken, Spinach & Mushroom Low Carb Bake

  • Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and mushrooms provide the best texture and flavor compared to frozen.
  • Don’t overcook the chicken: Cook until just done to keep it juicy in the bake.
  • Mix cheeses: Combining mozzarella with sharper cheddar adds authentic depth and melt power.
  • Let it rest: Allowing the bake to rest after coming out of the oven helps it set for easier slicing.
  • Customize seasoning: Feel free to add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to brighten the dish.

How to Serve Cheesy Chicken, Spinach & Mushroom Low Carb Bake

Garnishes

Top with freshly chopped parsley or basil to bring a vibrant, fresh touch that cuts through the creamy richness.

Side Dishes

Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted low carb vegetables like cauliflower rice or asparagus for a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual portions in small ramekins for a dinner party, or as a hearty topping over spiralized zucchini noodles or mashed cauliflower for extra low carb flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring leftovers into an airtight container. Refrigerate and consume within 3-4 days for best freshness and taste.

Freezing

This Cheesy Chicken, Spinach & Mushroom Low Carb Bake freezes well. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain a crispy top, or microwave gently to avoid drying out the creamy sauce.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach, but be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture to avoid a watery bake.

Is this dish suitable for keto diets?

Absolutely! It’s low in carbs and high in fats and protein, making it a perfect keto-friendly dinner option.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, replace the chicken with extra mushrooms or firm tofu and use vegetarian-friendly cheese to keep it deliciously cheesy.

What’s the best cheese to use?

A combination of mozzarella for meltiness and sharp cheddar for flavor works best, but feel free to experiment with your favorites.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cream alternatives and vegan cheese substitutes to enjoy this bake without dairy.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Chicken, Spinach & Mushroom Low Carb Bake is a fantastic, flavorful way to enjoy a healthy dinner without compromising on comfort or taste. It’s straightforward to prepare, adaptable to your pantry, and truly hits that satisfying combination of creamy, cheesy, and fresh. Give it a go—you might just find your new favorite weeknight meal!

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Cheesy Chicken, Spinach & Mushroom Low Carb Bake

A comforting and flavorful low carb bake featuring tender chicken, sautéed mushrooms, and fresh spinach in a creamy cheese sauce, baked to a golden bubbly finish. Perfect for quick weeknight meals, family dinners, or meal prepping, this recipe blends simplicity, nutrition, and rich taste while keeping carbs low.

  • Author: Sarah
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces

Vegetables

  • 4 cups fresh spinach
  • 8 oz sliced button or cremini mushrooms
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped

Dairy and Cream

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup heavy cream or 4 oz cream cheese

Fats and Oils

  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

Seasonings

  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Optional herbs: 1 tsp fresh or dried thyme or rosemary

Instructions

  1. Prepare and Sauté the Vegetables: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped garlic and onion, cooking until fragrant and translucent. Toss in sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their juices and begin to brown. Finally, add fresh spinach, stirring until just wilted.
  2. Cook the Chicken: In the same skillet or separately, lightly season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Cook over medium-high heat until golden on all sides and fully cooked through, sealing in moisture and enhancing flavor.
  3. Combine Ingredients with Cream and Cheese: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream or cream cheese into the cooked chicken and vegetables. Mix thoroughly until creamy. Take half of the shredded cheese blend and stir it into the mixture, saving the remaining half for topping.
  4. Assemble the Bake: Transfer the creamy chicken and veggie mixture into a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top to form a golden, bubbly crust.
  5. Bake Until Golden and Bubbly: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the assembled dish for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly browned on top. Let it rest a few minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh spinach and mushrooms for best texture and flavor.
  • Do not overcook chicken to keep it juicy.
  • Combine mozzarella and sharp cheddar for optimal melt and flavor.
  • Allow the bake to rest after baking for easier slicing.
  • Customize seasoning with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/6th of recipe
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg

Keywords: cheesy chicken bake, low carb chicken, spinach mushroom bake, keto chicken casserole, low carb comfort food

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