Chicken, Cheese, and Spinach Dish

As we enter into another school year with busy schedules and hungry growing children, this meal consists of a few basic ingredients, is quick to make, and fulfilling for all of us. This dish could also be served to guests – the cream cheese and spinach dress up this chicken – adding fresh tomatoes would be wonderful, too.

This meal is so simple. Chicken smothered in cheese, seasonings, and vegetables – it’s healthy and not bland. I realize I need to add more chicken as a part of our weekly menu, and this makes a simple and impressive meal. It’s an easy one to “just throw in the oven.” Even better! I just added some rice and warm bread and dinner was ready.

Chicken, Cheese, and Spinach Dish

Author: Molly (adapted from Dimars kitchen)

Cuisine: main dish

Prep time: 15 mins

Cook time: 25 mins

Total time: 40 mins

Serves: 4-6

Ingredients

2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut in half length wise
8 oz. cream cheese, softened
2 c. spinach, rinsed
1 T. olive oil
4 oz Mozzarella cheese, shredded
For the chicken marinade:
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 T. olive oil
½ t. red pepper flakes (if desired)
½ t. Italian seasoning
1 t. sea salt
½ t. black pepper
1 T. fresh basil, chopped

Instructions

Add olive oil, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes into a Ziploc bag along with salt, pepper, and basil. Seal the bag and shack until mixed. Then add the chicken breasts, seal, and massage so the chicken is covered in the marinade, set aside for 10-15 minutes while prepping the remaining ingredients.
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Farenheit.
Quickly wilt the spinach in a skillet with 1 tablespoon of olive oil on medium heat, set aside.
Arrange chicken breasts drained from the marinade in a baking dish. Dollop the cream cheese over the chicken and smooth out evenly with a spatula. Lay the spinach on top of the cream cheese. Lastly, sprinkle the mozzarella over the top.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through. Serve warm with rice, grains, or cooked vegetables.