Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake

Gather the following ingredients to create your mouthwatering dish:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• 1 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

Here’s how to whip up this incredible dish:

• Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
• Step 2: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
• Step 3: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until lightly golden. They do not need to be fully cooked at this stage.
• Step 4: Transfer the seared chicken to the prepared baking dish.
• Step 5: In a bowl, combine the chopped artichoke hearts, thawed spinach, cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using), mixing until well combined.
• Step 6: Spread the spinach artichoke mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
• Step 7: Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked with an internal temperature of 165°F and the top is bubbly and golden.
• Step 8: Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving. It pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, rice, or crusty bread.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen? Absolutely! Fresh spinach can offer a brighter flavor. Just sauté it briefly to wilt it before mixing.
• How can I make this dish more spicy? You can add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to amp up the heat.
• Can I make this vegetarian? While the chicken is a main ingredient, you can substitute it with portobello mushrooms or zucchini for a vegetarian option.
• How long can leftovers be stored? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Can I freeze this dish? Yes, this dish freezes well. Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container and thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.

Conclusion

Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake is a standout dish that tantalizes taste buds while being simple to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. With its creamy, cheesy topping and tender chicken, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite in your household. Try it out tonight and enjoy a delightful culinary experience!