Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Difficulty Level: Easy
Recipe Intensity: Moderate
Servings: 6 servings
Cuisine: American
Course: Main Course
Ingredients
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 8 ounces fresh mushrooms, sliced
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large skillet
- Mixing spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Aluminum foil (optional)
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Low in carbohydrates and keto-friendly
- High in protein for a satisfying meal
- Rich and creamy without using flour
- Perfect for meal prep
- Family-friendly and easy to customize
- One-pan convenience for easy cleanup
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a small amount of olive oil.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry using paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 2–3 minutes on each side until lightly golden. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked at this stage since it will continue cooking in the oven.
Transfer the chicken to the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms
Using the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms. Cook for 5–6 minutes over medium heat until they release their moisture and begin to brown.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Add the Spinach
Add the fresh spinach to the skillet. Stir continuously for 2–3 minutes until the spinach wilts completely.
The mushroom and spinach mixture should be tender and flavorful before moving to the next step.
Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce
Reduce the heat to low.
Add the cream cheese and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir until the cream cheese melts completely and forms a smooth sauce.
Mix in:
- Parmesan cheese
- Half of the mozzarella cheese
- Dried thyme
- Onion powder
Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes rich and creamy.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 6: Assemble the Dish
Pour the spinach and mushroom cream sauce evenly over the chicken breasts in the baking dish.
Use a spoon to spread the mixture so that every piece of chicken is covered.
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Step 7: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
The cheese should be melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
If desired, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end of cooking for extra browning.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Remove the dish from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Serve hot and enjoy.
Serving Suggestions
This low-carb oven dish pairs beautifully with:
- Roasted broccoli
- Cauliflower rice
- Garlic green beans
- Zucchini noodles
- Mixed green salad
For those not following a low-carb diet, it can also be served alongside rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer
Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Reheating
Reheat in the microwave for 2–3 minutes or warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.
Recipe Tips
- Use chicken thighs for a juicier variation.
- Add red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Substitute Swiss cheese or provolone for a different flavor profile.
- Fresh mushrooms provide the best texture, but canned mushrooms can be used in a pinch.
- Ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature before serving.
Health Benefits
Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, helping support muscle maintenance and satiety. Spinach contributes vitamins A, C, and K, along with iron and antioxidants. Mushrooms provide important minerals and a savory umami flavor while remaining low in calories and carbohydrates.
The creamy cheese sauce delivers richness and flavor while keeping the dish keto-friendly and satisfying.
Nutrition Information
Per Serving (Approximate)
- Calories: 425
- Protein: 42g
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Net Carbs: 4g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
- Sodium: 620mg
- Potassium: 780mg
- Calcium: 220mg
- Iron: 2mg