Creamy Chicken & Spinach Alfredo Bake

This creamy chicken and spinach Alfredo bake is a comforting dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. It’s rich, cheesy, and packed with flavor, combining tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a creamy Alfredo sauce.

Ingredients

For the Bake:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 2 cups Alfredo sauce
• 1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Stir in the diced chicken and fresh spinach, cooking until the spinach is wilted.
5. Add the Alfredo sauce to the skillet and cook until heated through.

Step 2: Assemble the Bake

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken mixture with half of the mozzarella cheese.
2. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

1. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
2. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Let the dish cool slightly before serving.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve with garlic bread for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4

Variations

• Add cooked pasta, such as penne or rotini, to make it a more substantial meal.
• Substitute the spinach with kale or other leafy greens for a different flavor.
• For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in short intervals.

FAQs

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
   Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great option for this recipe, making it even quicker to prepare.
2. Can I use frozen spinach?
   Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before adding it to the dish.
3. Is there a substitute for Alfredo sauce?
   You can use a homemade white sauce or a store-bought creamy sauce if desired.
4. Can this dish be made ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
5. How do I know when it’s done?
   The bake is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are lightly golden.
6. Can I add other vegetables?
   Absolutely! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or broccoli would all be great additions.
7. What can I serve with this bake?
   Garlic bread, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables would complement this dish well.
8. Can I freeze this dish?
   Yes, you can freeze it before or after baking. Just ensure it’s tightly wrapped.
9. How long can I store leftovers?
   Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
10. Is this dish gluten-free?
    To make it gluten-free, ensure all ingredients, especially the Alfredo sauce, are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

This creamy chicken and spinach Alfredo bake is a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to please the whole family. With its rich flavors and cheesy goodness, it’s a perfect option for busy nights or special occasions. Enjoy every comforting bite!

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