27 May 2025
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 10 min
Ingredients:
1 tbsp olive oil
2 chicken breasts
1 cup spinach
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1 oz low moisture mozzarella cheese
This Cheesy Chicken and Spinach Bake is a delightful and nutritious dish that's perfect for any meal. It's a delectable combination of tender chicken breasts, fresh spinach, juicy cherry tomatoes, and gooey mozzarella cheese, all brought together with a touch of olive oil. Follow this simple recipe to create a satisfying and healthy meal that will be a hit with family and friends.
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, or any other seasoning of your choice (such as garlic powder, paprika, or Italian seasoning).
3. Sear the Chicken:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet.
- Cook the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked at this stage as it will finish cooking in the oven.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
4. Prepare the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the spinach and cook for about 1-2 minutes, or until it is wilted. If needed, add a little more oil.
- Toss in the cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, just until they start to soften.
5. Assemble the Bake:
- Turn off the heat and place the seared chicken breasts back in the skillet, nestling them among the spinach and cherry tomatoes.
- Sprinkle the low-moisture mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken.
6. Bake:
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve:
- Remove the skillet from the oven carefully; it will be hot.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the chicken breasts topped with the melted mozzarella, and spoon the spinach and cherry tomatoes around the chicken.
8. Enjoy!
- Pair this delicious chicken and spinach bake with a side of your choice, such as a fresh green salad, quinoa, or a slice of crusty bread.
Tips:
- Preheat the oven: Always preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) before you start preparing the ingredients to ensure even cooking.
- Use fresh ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh spinach, ripe cherry tomatoes, and high-quality mozzarella cheese.
- Season the chicken: Before baking, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and any other preferred herbs to enhance the flavor.
- Layering: When assembling the bake, start with a layer of spinach, then add the chicken, followed by the cherry tomatoes and mozzarella cheese.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Cheesy Chicken and Spinach Bake as a well-rounded meal that not only tastes great but also offers a balance of protein and vegetables. Share this recipe with your loved ones and savor the delightful flavors together. Bon appétit!