Description
This rich and savory dish combines juicy chicken, tender spinach, and a velvety cheese sauce baked until golden and bubbling. It’s an ideal comfort food recipe that works well for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Filling:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound cooked, shredded or cubed chicken breast or thighs
- 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk, warmed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Topping:
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Chopped parsley or basil (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion until translucent. Add garlic and cook briefly. Stir in spinach until wilted. Season and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour. Gradually add milk, whisking to remove lumps. Add cream and spices. Stir until thickened.
- Stir in 1½ cups mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted.
- In a large bowl, mix chicken, sautéed spinach, and cheese sauce until combined.
- Pour mixture into baking dish. Top with 1/2 cup mozzarella.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly. Broil for 2–3 minutes for a golden top.
- Let rest for 5–10 minutes. Garnish if desired. Serve warm.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes