If you’re on the lookout for a comforting, flavorful, and wonderfully nutritious meal, look no further than this Chicken Spinach Mushroom Low Carb Oven Dish Recipe. It strikes the perfect balance between hearty and healthy with tender chicken pieces, earthiness from mushrooms, and vibrant spinach, all topped with gooey melted cheese. This dish will quickly become your go-to for weeknights or whenever you crave a satisfying dinner that fits beautifully into a low carb lifestyle without sacrificing any indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is key to nailing this Chicken Spinach Mushroom Low Carb Oven Dish Recipe. Each component plays a vital role, contributing texture, flavor, or color to make the dish vibrant and well-rounded.
- Fresh spinach (2 cups, chopped): Adds a boost of green freshness and a tender bite that complements the heartier ingredients.
- Sliced mushrooms (2 cups): Bring an earthy depth that pairs beautifully with the savory chicken and cheese.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Essential for sautéing the veggies and enhancing their natural flavors.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 pound, cut into bite-sized pieces): The star protein, tender and juicy when cooked just right.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Provides warm, aromatic undertones.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Rounds out the seasoning with sweet and savory notes.
- Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle herbaceous touch to keep things fresh.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): Introduces a mild smoky flavor and a lovely reddish hue.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): The ultimate flavor enhancers that balance the dish.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Melts smoothly, creating that irresistible creamy blanket.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Sprinkles of sharp, nutty flavor to elevate the cheesy layer.
- Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For those who love a gentle kick of heat to wake up the palate.
How to Make Chicken Spinach Mushroom Low Carb Oven Dish Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
First things first, set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready by the time you finish prepping. This simple step ensures a smooth cooking flow and perfectly baked results.
Step 2: Sauté Mushrooms
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and add your sliced mushrooms. Let them cook for 5 to 7 minutes until they soften and take on a beautiful golden-brown color. This develops a deep, rich flavor that’s essential for the dish’s savory notes.
Step 3: Wilt the Spinach
Once the mushrooms are just right, toss in the chopped spinach and sauté for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until it wilts down nicely. Don’t overcook; you want it tender but still vibrant. Once done, take the skillet off the heat and set aside this delicious veggie mix.
Step 4: Season the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly so every bite of chicken is packed with flavor. This seasoning blend is what makes this recipe so crave-worthy and satisfying.
Step 5: Arrange Layers in Baking Dish
Spread the seasoned chicken evenly across your baking dish to ensure even cooking. Next, layer the sautéed spinach and mushrooms right on top, building those wonderful flavors upward.
Step 6: Add the Cheeses and Optional Heat
Now comes the best part: sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the veggies, then follow with a generous dusting of grated Parmesan. If you’re feeling adventurous, add red pepper flakes for a subtle but lively heat boost.
Step 7: Bake Covered
Cover the baking dish with foil and slide it into the preheated oven. Let it bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through—the internal temperature should hit 165°F (74°C), ensuring juicy and safe-to-eat meat.
Step 8: Brown the Cheese
Remove the foil for the last 5 to 10 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to bubble up and turn a gorgeous golden brown. This step adds that glorious crispy texture and irresistible aroma.
Step 9: Rest and Serve
Once out of the oven, let the dish cool for a few minutes so the flavors settle and serving is easy. Then dig in and enjoy the wholesome, comforting magic of this low carb oven dish!
How to Serve Chicken Spinach Mushroom Low Carb Oven Dish Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil make perfect garnishes to add a fresh pop of color and brightness to this rich dish. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice can also enhance the flavors before serving.
Side Dishes
This Chicken Spinach Mushroom Low Carb Oven Dish Recipe shines brilliantly alongside crisp salads, steamed cauliflower rice for extra low carb goodness, or roasted vegetables. These sides keep the meal balanced and satisfying without overpowering the main star.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special touch, serve individual portions in small ramekins or cast iron skillets for an attractive, rustic look. Alternatively, plate over a bed of zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for an extra veggie punch and delightful texture contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for effortless next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
This low carb oven dish freezes beautifully. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags and keep it for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm leftovers gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as the oven helps maintain the texture and flavor integrity.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap mozzarella and Parmesan with your favorites like cheddar, Gruyere, or even a sprinkle of feta for a tangy twist. Just keep in mind how the melting characteristics might change.
Is this dish suitable for a keto diet?
Yes, this Chicken Spinach Mushroom Low Carb Oven Dish Recipe fits perfectly into a ketogenic diet thanks to its low carbohydrate content and high protein and fat balance.
Can I use frozen spinach or mushrooms?
While fresh ingredients bring the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen spinach or mushrooms. Just be sure to thaw and drain excess moisture to avoid a watery dish.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning. You could also serve it with spicy hot sauce on the side for an extra kick.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time before baking?
Definitely! Assemble the dish up to the cheese layer, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Spinach Mushroom Low Carb Oven Dish Recipe is truly a keeper for anyone wanting a nourishing, tasty meal with minimal fuss. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and versatile enough for any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how quickly it becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen!
Print
Chicken Spinach Mushroom Low Carb Oven Dish Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
A flavorful low-carb oven-baked dish featuring tender chicken breasts cooked with sautéed spinach and mushrooms, topped with a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal with a mild kick from optional red pepper flakes.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
Protein
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Oil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the dish.
- Sauté Mushrooms: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they are soft and browned, enhancing their flavor.
- Cook Spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the skillet with the mushrooms and sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts. Remove the skillet from heat and set aside.
- Season Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine the bite-sized chicken pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to coat the chicken evenly with the spices.
- Assemble Dish: Spread the seasoned chicken evenly in a large baking dish. Layer the sautéed spinach and mushrooms on top of the chicken.
- Add Cheese and Optional Spice: Sprinkle 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the vegetables, followed by 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. If desired, sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to add a touch of heat.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), indicating it is fully cooked.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, creating a delicious crust on top.
- Rest and Serve: Carefully remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your wholesome low-carb oven dish!
Notes
- Ensure chicken pieces are cut evenly for uniform cooking.
- You can substitute mozzarella with any other melting cheese if preferred.
- Red pepper flakes are optional and can be omitted for a milder flavor.
- Use fresh spinach for best results; frozen spinach needs to be thawed and drained before use.
- Check chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure safety.
