Tuscan Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake

If you’re searching for a comforting, flavorful dinner that combines creamy richness with the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean, look no further than the Tuscan Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake. This dish takes tender boneless, skinless chicken breasts and bakes them in a luscious blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and mozzarella, with the added goodness of fresh spinach and artichoke hearts. The result is an irresistible, cheesy, savory bake that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak some greens into your meal without sacrificing taste.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Tuscan Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake is a dish that hits all the right notes: creamy, cheesy, savory, and packed with veggies. It’s a delightful twist on classic spinach artichoke dip, transformed into a hearty, protein-packed main course. The combination of garlic, oregano, and basil gives it that unmistakable Tuscan flair, transporting your taste buds straight to the Italian countryside.

What makes this recipe especially wonderful is how easy it is to prepare. In just a few simple steps, you can have a crowd-pleasing dinner that everyone will love, with minimal cleanup. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this bake is sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation. For a complementary side, consider serving it alongside a light salad or some garlic bread. And if you love incorporating spinach into your meals, you might also enjoy my Cheesy Spaghetti Squash With Spinach recipe, which is equally delicious and nutritious.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 can (14 ounces) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

How To Make Tuscan Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Chicken

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then season both sides generously with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil. This seasoning layer will infuse the chicken with the classic Tuscan herb flavors.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large oven-safe skillet or frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the chicken breasts and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust. This step locks in the juices and adds extra flavor. Once seared, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Spinach Artichoke Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, chopped spinach, and chopped artichoke hearts. Stir until everything is well incorporated. Then fold in half of the shredded mozzarella and all the grated Parmesan cheese. This creamy mixture will be the luscious topping and filling for the chicken.

Step 4: Assemble the Bake

Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet or transfer to a baking dish if you prefer. Spoon the spinach artichoke cream cheese mixture evenly over each chicken breast, spreading it generously to cover the top. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top for a bubbly, golden finish.

Step 5: Bake Until Perfect

Place the skillet or baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese topping is melted and slightly browned. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, let the Tuscan Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a crisp green salad.

Expert Tips

• Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese blends more smoothly with the other ingredients, creating a creamier topping.
• Don’t Skip Searing: Browning the chicken first adds flavor and helps keep it juicy during baking.
• Fresh vs. Frozen Spinach: If using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water before mixing to avoid a watery bake.
• Customize Cheese Options: Feel free to swap mozzarella for provolone or fontina for a different flavor profile.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the creamy mixture and chicken in advance, then assemble and bake when ready.

Variations and Customizations

• Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: For an extra burst of tangy sweetness, fold in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the cream mixture.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne to the cream cheese mixture for a subtle kick.
• Use Different Greens: Swap spinach for kale or Swiss chard if you prefer a heartier green.
• Make It Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese and sour cream with dairy-free alternatives and use a vegan cheese blend.
• Instant Pot Version: For a quicker version, try making this as a creamy chicken dish in the Instant Pot, similar to an Instant Pot Spinach Artichoke Dip but with chicken.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover Tuscan Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short bursts to maintain moisture. This dish also freezes well; just wrap individual portions tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to fully thaw them before cooking to ensure even cooking and food safety.

What can I serve with Tuscan Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake?

This bake pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a light salad. A side of crusty bread or rice pilaf also complements the creamy, cheesy flavors.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat-based ingredients. Just be sure to check that your sour cream and cream cheese brands don’t have any hidden gluten additives.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the dish up to a day in advance and refrigerate it. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if the chicken is cold from refrigeration.

Conclusion

The Tuscan Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake is a deliciously creamy, cheesy, and herbaceous dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress. With tender chicken breasts smothered in a luscious spinach and artichoke cream cheese mixture, it’s a meal that feels indulgent without being complicated. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or meal prepping, this recipe delivers comforting flavors inspired by the Italian countryside. Give it a try and watch it become a favorite in your kitchen!

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