Chicken Spinach and Mushroom Low Carb Oven Dish Recipe

This Chicken Spinach and Mushroom Low Carb Oven Dish is a hearty and satisfying meal that highlights the flavors of tender chicken, fresh spinach, and savory mushrooms—all without the carbs. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special meal, this dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Sauté the Vegetables:

1. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

Make the Creamy Sauce:

1. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer.
2. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens slightly.

Combine and Bake:

1. Place the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the spinach and mushroom mixture in the skillet.
2. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken.
3. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and golden.

Serve:

1. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

1. Add Extra Veggies: Include other low-carb vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
2. Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
3. Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like Gouda or fontina for a different flavor profile.
4. Herbs: Add fresh herbs like basil or thyme for additional flavor.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also use the microwave, but the texture may be less crisp.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
   Yes, just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before using.
2. Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option?
   Yes, half-and-half or a low-fat cream can be used, but the sauce may be less rich.
3. What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet?
   Transfer the ingredients to a baking dish before baking.
4. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
   Yes, chicken thighs work well and can add extra flavor.
5. How do I know if the chicken is fully cooked?
   The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
6. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and bake it when ready to serve.
7. What can I serve with this dish?
   A side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad complements it well.
8. Can I freeze this dish?
   Yes, it can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
9. How can I add more flavor to the sauce?
   Add a splash of white wine or a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the sauce.
10. Is there a low-carb substitute for Parmesan cheese?
    Nutritional yeast can be used as a cheese alternative for a similar flavor.

Conclusion

The Chicken Spinach and Mushroom Low Carb Oven Dish is a perfect meal for those looking to enjoy a hearty, flavorful dish without the carbs. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and delicious vegetables, this dish is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal with family and friends, it’s sure to become a favorite in your low-carb recipe collection.