This low-carb oven dish is a heavenly combination of tender chicken, fresh baby spinach, earthy mushrooms, and creamy green onion-infused cream cheese. It’s layered with mozzarella cheese and seasoned to perfection, offering a hearty yet health-conscious option for dinner. Whether you’re following a low-carb diet or simply looking for a wholesome, flavorful meal, this recipe delivers comfort and nutrition in every bite.
Why This Recipe Works
Balanced Flavors: The earthy mushrooms, creamy cheese, and lightly seasoned chicken create a rich, satisfying dish.
Low-Carb Option: Packed with protein and veggies, this dish fits well into keto and low-carb meal plans.
Effortless Preparation: With minimal prep and a single baking dish, cleanup is a breeze!
Versatile Ingredients: Easily customizable by adding other vegetables or herbs to suit your taste.
Ingredients Breakdown
Protein and Vegetables
Chicken Breasts (6 thin slices): The star of the dish, providing lean protein. Thin slices ensure even cooking.
Fresh Baby Spinach (1 small bag): Adds a fresh, vibrant flavor and plenty of nutrients.
Sliced Mushrooms (1 large package): A hearty vegetable that adds an earthy, umami taste.
Cheese and Cream Base
Green Onion Cream Cheese (1 container): Infuses the dish with a subtle onion flavor while keeping it creamy.
Mozzarella Cheese (8 oz, shredded): Provides the cheesy topping that melts into golden perfection.
Flavor Enhancers
Herb and Garlic Seasoning: Enhances the dish with aromatic and savory flavors.
Chicken Broth (1/2 cup): Adds moisture and depth to the creamy sauce.
Olive Oil (1/4 cup): Helps blend the cream cheese and adds a touch of richness.
Optional Garnishes
Fresh parsley or grated Parmesan for extra flavor and presentation.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep the Ingredients
Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by lightly greasing it or spraying it with non-stick spray.
Rinse and pat dry the chicken breasts.
Layer the Dish
Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of the baking dish.
Top the chicken with the fresh baby spinach, spreading it evenly.
Add a generous layer of sliced mushrooms over the spinach.
Season the Layers
Sprinkle a dash of pepper and Herb and Garlic Seasoning over the entire dish to enhance the flavors.
- Make the Creamy Sauce
In a mixing bowl, soften the green onion cream cheese in the microwave for a few seconds if needed.
Whisk in the olive oil and chicken broth until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble and Bake
Pour the creamy mixture evenly over the chicken, spinach, and mushrooms.
Lay a piece of aluminum foil over the top of the dish, ensuring it doesn’t touch the food, but don’t seal the edges.
- Initial Baking
Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 20-25 minutes.
- Add the Cheese Topping
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the dish.
Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese starts to brown and bubble.
- Rest and Serve
Allow the dish to cool for 10 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors settle and ensures clean slices when serving.
Tips for Recipe Success
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and mushrooms enhance the flavor and texture. Frozen alternatives can be used but ensure they’re thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture.
Thinly Sliced Chicken: Thin chicken breasts cook faster and more evenly, ensuring juicy and tender results.
Soften Cream Cheese: If your cream cheese is too firm, microwave it for 10-15 seconds to make whisking easier.
Don’t Skip Resting Time: Letting the dish cool ensures it sets properly, making it easier to serve.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is satisfying on its own but pairs beautifully with:
Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option that complements the creamy sauce.
Roasted Vegetables: Add variety with roasted zucchini, asparagus, or bell peppers.
Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes or until heated through.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Calories: ~350 kcal
Protein: 30g
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fiber: 2g
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Keto-Friendly: This recipe fits seamlessly into low-carb or keto meal plans.
Flavor-Packed: The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and cheesy topping is simply irresistible.
Customizable: Swap in your favorite vegetables or experiment with different cheeses.
One-Pan Wonder: Easy to prepare and perfect for minimal cleanup.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken, Spinach, and Mushroom Low Carb Oven Dish is the epitome of comfort food with a healthy twist. It’s rich, creamy, and full of flavor, making it a go-to recipe for weeknight dinners or meal prepping. Try it today, and watch it become a family favorite!