Chicken and Spinach Soul Bake

Name: Chicken and Spinach Soul Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup breadcrumbs

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

When I first created this Chicken and Spinach Soul Bake, I was in the mood for something comforting and hearty. Combining tender chicken with vibrant spinach and a creamy sauce, I wanted a dish that delivered both flavor and nutrition in one go. As I experimented with different cheeses and seasonings, I realized how well they melded together, making it a family favorite. With minimal prep and a warm oven, this bake easily transforms into a main course everyone will love. I can't wait for you to try it!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-30T17:34:27.057Z

I’ve always believed that the right combination of ingredients can evoke warmth and comfort in a dish. In the case of my Chicken and Spinach Soul Bake, the marriage of sautéed chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich sauce creates a symphony of flavors. As I blended the creamy sauce, I added a hint of nutmeg, which unexpectedly elevated the taste, weaving a depth that complements the dish wonderfully.

This bake is perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, as it allows for meal prep without compromising on quality. I highly recommend letting it rest for a few minutes after baking—this small step prevents it from falling apart upon serving, ensuring every portion holds its delightful layers.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and satisfying, perfect for any meal
Nutritious spinach packed with essential vitamins
A creamy sauce that blankets everything in flavor

Key Techniques for a Perfect Bake

One of the most crucial steps in making the Chicken and Spinach Soul Bake is ensuring your chicken is perfectly cooked without being dry. Sauté the pieces over medium heat until they are just cooked through and lightly brown on the outside, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Remember, chicken continues to cook slightly after being taken off the heat, so remove it just when it's no longer pink in the center for a tender, juicy outcome.

When adding the spinach, a gentle hand is needed. Wilt it just until it’s bright green and reduced in volume – this usually takes only 2-3 minutes. Overcooking can lead to a soggy texture that won't hold its shape in the bake. Just this small adjustment can enhance the visual appeal and maintain some freshness within your dish.

Perfecting the Sauce

The creamy sauce is where the flavors unite and elevate this dish. Using fresh heavy cream creates a rich, velvety consistency that coats the chicken and spinach beautifully. If you're looking for a lighter alternative, you might consider using half-and-half or a combination of Greek yogurt and milk, but note that the texture and flavor will vary. Whichever you choose, make sure to mix until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is glossy before pouring it over the chicken.

Keep an eye on the amount of nutmeg you use; a little goes a long way. Its warm, aromatic flavor complements the creaminess and can lift the entire dish. Just a half teaspoon should suffice, but feel free to adjust based on personal preference. I often recommend tasting the sauce before assembly to ensure it meets your flavor profile.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make a delicious Chicken and Spinach Soul Bake

Ingredients

1 pound boneless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
4 cups fresh spinach, washed and chopped
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup breadcrumbs

With these ingredients ready, let's move on to the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Chicken and Spinach Soul Bake.

Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, onion powder, and sauté until cooked through and lightly browned, about 8-10 minutes.

Add the Spinach

Stir in the minced garlic and chopped spinach, cooking until the spinach is wilted. Remove from heat.

Make the Sauce

In a bowl, combine heavy cream, mozzarella, Parmesan, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well.

Combine and Assemble

In a large baking dish, layer the chicken and spinach mixture. Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the top and sprinkle with breadcrumbs.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbling and golden brown on top.

Serve

Let the bake sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your meal!

Now that your soul bake is ready, you're all set to enjoy a comforting meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, try adding some crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're busy during the week but still want to enjoy this comforting bake, consider prepping it the night before. You can sauté the chicken, mix in the spinach, and prepare the sauce ahead of time. Layer everything in the baking dish and cover tightly. When ready to bake, just remove it from the fridge for about 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even baking. This will save you time while still delivering the delicious flavors of a freshly made meal.

Leftovers can also be a friend! If you have extra servings, store them in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to three days. For reheating, the oven is your best option; simply cover the dish with foil to prevent drying out, and heat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This helps maintain the creaminess and texture of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

This Chicken and Spinach Soul Bake pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a side of roasted vegetables. The freshness from a salad can cut through the richness of the creamy bake, making it a balanced meal. Adding a squeeze of lemon over the spinach before serving can also brighten the flavors significantly.

Feel free to get creative with ingredient variations; for example, adding sun-dried tomatoes, artichokes, or even cooked quinoa can enhance the flavor and provide extra nutrients. If you want a bit of heat, toss in some red pepper flakes to the sauce! Each of these tweaks can bring a new twist to this already comforting dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain it well before using.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I substitute the chicken for another protein?

Absolutely! Cooked shredded turkey or even chickpeas work great.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prepping?

Yes, it's perfect for meal prep! Just reheating makes it easy to enjoy.