Creamed Spinach Chicken Bake
A comforting dish where poached chicken is baked with creamy spinach, topped with cheese and baked until golden. This dish is easy to prepare and is perfect for a wholesome family meal. It combines tender chicken with a creamy spinach sauce, all topped with melted cheese for a delicious finish.
- Total
- 30 min
- Serves
- 4
- Level
- Everyday
Created with Pantry Bliss
Ingredients
4 servings
For the chicken and spinach
- 4 pieces Poached chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 250 grams Fresh spinach, washed
For the creamy sauce
- 30 grams Butter, melted
- 30 grams All-purpose flour
- 250 milliliters Milk, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- ½ teaspoon Black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Garlic powder
- 100 grams Grated cheese (e.g., mozzarella or cheddar)
- Prep
- 10 min
- Cook
- 20 min
About this recipe
This recipe draws inspiration from classic comfort food dishes that feature a creamy base and tender protein. The combination of poached chicken and creamy spinach pays homage to the traditional creamed spinach often served as a side dish, while innovative baking makes it a hearty main course. Using fresh ingredients and a simple sauce, this recipe is designed to be both satisfying and approachable for all skill levels in the kitchen, echoing the nurturing spirit of home-cooked meals.
Method
-
Step 1: Prepare the chicken and spinach
In a pot of gently simmering water, poach the chicken breasts for about 15 minutes or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 75°C). Remove chicken, let it cool slightly, and then shred it into bite-sized pieces. In a frying pan, add washed spinach over medium heat, cook until wilted and then remove from heat.
Ensure the chicken is fully cooked with an internal temperature of 75°C. -
Step 2: Make the creamy sauce
In the same frying pan, melt 30 grams of butter over medium heat. Add 30 grams of flour, whisk together for 1 minute until mixed. Gradually add in 250 milliliters of milk, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens. Add 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder. Stir to combine well.
Keep whisking to avoid lumps forming in the sauce. -
Step 3: Combine chicken, spinach, and sauce
In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken and wilted spinach. Pour in the creamy sauce and mix well until everything is combined. Transfer this mixture to a greased baking dish evenly spreading it out.
Ensure the chicken and spinach are evenly coated with the sauce for optimal flavor. -
Step 4: Top with cheese and bake
Sprinkle 100 grams of grated cheese over the top of the chicken-spinach mixture. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Bake in the oven for 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Keep an eye on the cheese to avoid burning; it should be golden brown.
Tips
- You can add other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for added nutrition.
- Try using different types of cheese such as feta or parmesan for different flavors.
- This dish can be prepared in advance and baked just before serving.
- Serve with a side of rice or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Equipment
- Oven
- Baking dish (30 cm x 20 cm)
- Stovetop pot
- Frying pan
- Spatula
- Whisk
Serve it with
Sides
-
Steamed Broccoli
Broccoli adds a fresh and crunchy contrast to the creamy texture of the bake.
-
Garlic Bread
Garlic bread pairs perfectly, providing a crispy complement to the creamy chicken.
Goes well with
-
Caesar Salad
A light Caesar salad balances the richness of the bake with its fresh greens.
-
Chocolate Mousse
Finish the meal with a light dessert like chocolate mousse for a sweet ending.
Drinks
-
Sparkling Water
Sparkling water cleanses the palate and is a refreshing drink alongside this dish.
-
Chardonnay
A chilled glass of Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce of the bake.
Created by a home cook with Pantry Bliss’s AI recipe creator and shared with the community. Always check recipes for allergens and cook food to safe temperatures.
