Name: Mexican Spinach Chicken Bake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts; 12 oz frozen chopped spinach, thawed; 10 oz Rotel tomatoes with green chiles; 6 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup sour cream; 2.25 oz diced black olives, drained; 1.5 cups colby jack cheese, shredded and separated; Green onions, chopped; Cilantro, chopped

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As I was searching for a delicious and satisfying dinner, I stumbled upon the recipe for Mexican Spinach Chicken Bake. This dish is a perfect blend of flavors that remind me of family gatherings where everyone gathers around the table, sharing stories and laughter. The idea of juicy, tender chicken topped with a creamy spinach mixture and melted cheese had my mouth watering. It’s a meal that not only warms the belly but also the heart, bringing back memories of cozy evenings spent together. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights. Whenever I make Mexican Spinach Chicken Bake, I can’t help but think of how it can transform a simple dinner into a special occasion, all served from my own kitchen.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
40 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
420 kcal

Protein:
43 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
24 g

Tools Used:
Baking Sheet, Oven, Cutting Board, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon, Chef’s Knife

Why Try This Mexican Spinach Chicken Bake

Comforting Flavors

The first thing I love about Mexican Spinach Chicken Bake is the comforting combination of ingredients. The blend of chicken, spinach, and cheese creates a luscious dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Every bite is a delightful mix of creamy and savory, making it perfect for anyone craving something hearty.

Quick and Easy Preparation

Another reason to adore this recipe is how quick and easy it is to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time. Even on the busiest days, I can whip up Mexican Spinach Chicken Bake without feeling overwhelmed in the kitchen.

Perfect for Leftovers

The Mexican Spinach Chicken Bake is fantastic as leftovers! The flavors deepen overnight, making the dish even more delicious the next day. I often enjoy it for lunch, adding a fresh salad on the side for balance. It’s a great way to maximize your cooking efforts and minimize time spent in the kitchen later.

Customizable Ingredients

What’s more, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have available or to cater to different dietary preferences. Want a little more kick? Add in some spice! Prefer it milder? Just adjust the ingredients. The flexibility makes Mexican Spinach Chicken Bake a true crowd-pleaser.

Family-Friendly

Lastly, this dish is a hit with the whole family. Kids love the cheesy topping, and it’s a sneaky way to get them to eat their greens. When I serve Mexican Spinach Chicken Bake, there are never any leftovers; everyone goes back for seconds!

What to Gather for Mexican Spinach Chicken Bake

When preparing the Mexican Spinach Chicken Bake, the synergy of ingredients is what makes this dish special. Each component plays a vital role, contributing to a flavorful and satisfying meal. The star of the show is certainly the chicken, providing protein and substance, while the spinach adds a depth of flavor and nutrition. With the gooey cheese and zesty Rotel tomatoes, the blend creates a taste explosion that’s hard to resist.

2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts: The main protein source, these breasts bake tender and juicy.
12 oz frozen chopped spinach, thawed: This adds a nutritious green element and balances the richness of the dish.
10 oz Rotel tomatoes with green chiles (1 can): These tomatoes infuse the recipe with flavor and a hint of spice.
6 oz cream cheese, softened: This provides the creamy texture that binds the dish together.
1/4 cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and smoothness to the mixture.
2.25 oz diced black olives, drained (1 can): A briny touch that enhances the overall flavor profile.
1.5 cups colby jack cheese, shredded and separated: Adds melty goodness and flavor, topping the chicken perfectly.
Green onions, chopped: A fresh garnish that elevates the dish and adds a pop of color.
Cilantro, chopped: Another garnish that brings freshness and a hint of brightness to the recipe.

Making Mexican Spinach Chicken Bake

Making Mexican Spinach Chicken Bake is a breeze, and I enjoy every minute spent preparing this delightful dish. Each step builds anticipation as the aroma fills the kitchen. Here’s how to create this cozy meal:

Start by preheating your oven to 375˚F. This ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly once it’s in the oven. A properly preheated oven also helps in achieving that lovely golden color on top of your dish.
Next, squeeze as much liquid from the thawed spinach as possible. This step is crucial because excess liquid can make your dish watery. You want concentrated flavors here, not a soggy base!
In a large bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and sour cream together. Make sure to blend them well until the mixture is creamy and smooth. This creamy base is what brings all the ingredients together.
Stir in the Rotel tomatoes, spinach, black olives, and 1 cup of colby jack cheese. Mix everything until fully combined. You should see a beautiful blend of colors and textures at this point.
Now, lay the chicken breasts flat in a large baking dish. It’s essential to use a dish that can hold all the ingredients comfortably. Spread the spinach mixture evenly on top of the chicken, ensuring every piece is covered.
Top the dish with the remaining colby jack cheese. This will melt beautifully, creating a golden, bubbly layer that is simply irresistible.
Pop the baking dish in the oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165˚F. You can check this with a meat thermometer if you have one!
Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This helps the dish set up a bit before serving.
Finally, garnish your Mexican Spinach Chicken Bake with your choice of chopped green onions, fresh tomatoes, or cilantro. These toppings not only add flavor but also enhance the presentation. Serve hot and enjoy!

Things Worth Knowing

Consider Spacing: Make sure to leave enough space between the chicken breasts for even cooking.
Check for Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is fully cooked.
Freshening Up: For a brighter taste, feel free to add lime juice or zest before serving.
Layering Flavor: You can sauté some onions and garlic before mixing them into the cheese mixture for added depth.

Recipe Variations about Mexican Spinach Chicken Bake

There are countless ways to enjoy Mexican Spinach Chicken Bake. Here are some variations that can add a personal touch to your meal:

Add a Crunch: Consider topping with crushed tortilla chips before baking for an added crunch.
Spice it Up: If you like heat, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spinach mixture.
Different Cheeses: Swap out the colby jack cheese for monterey jack or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile.
Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for a vegetarian version.
Serving Idea: Pair it with a side of rice or a simple salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked dish for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge before baking.

What Complements This Mexican Spinach Chicken Bake

To elevate your dining experience with Mexican Spinach Chicken Bake, consider these pairings that enhance its flavors:

Fresh Salad: Serve with a crisp garden salad for a refreshing contrast.
Rice: A side of cilantro lime rice or Spanish rice complements this dish wonderfully.
Seasonal Vegetables: Roasted seasonal veggies add extra nutrition and color to the plate.
Occasions: This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even festive gatherings.
Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven for the best results.

FAQ

Absolutely! Fresh spinach can be used in place of frozen. You’ll want to sauté it first to reduce the moisture content before adding it to the cheese mixture. This will ensure your Mexican Spinach Chicken Bake maintains its creamy texture without becoming watery.

If you’re looking to kick up the heat in your Mexican Spinach Chicken Bake, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the spinach mixture. Another great option would be using spicy cheese like pepper jack instead of colby jack. Adjusting the spice level is easy and can cater to your taste preferences!

Yes, you can definitely prepare Mexican Spinach Chicken Bake ahead of time. Just assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just increase the cooking time slightly to ensure the chicken is fully cooked through. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep!

To complement your Mexican Spinach Chicken Bake, consider serving it with a light salad, some cilantro lime rice, or even a side of roasted vegetables. These options balance the richness of the dish and add freshness to your meal, making it a well-rounded dining experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Mexican Spinach Chicken Bake stands out for its comforting flavors, ease of preparation, and family-friendly appeal. This dish not only satisfies your cravings for something hearty but also brings loved ones together around the dinner table. I encourage you to try this recipe for your next meal and experience the joy it brings!

Mexican Spinach Chicken Bake

The ultimate comfort food, Mexican Spinach Chicken Bake combines juicy chicken with creamy spinach and zesty tomatoes. Topped with melty cheese, it’s a delightful, easy weeknight dinner that your family will love. Make it tonight!

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Course Dinner

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 6 servings

Calories 420 kcal

Equipment

Baking Sheet
Oven
Cutting Board
Mixing Bowl
Wooden Spoon
Chef's Knife

Ingredients

2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
12 oz frozen chopped spinach, thawed
10 oz Rotel tomatoes with green chiles
6 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup sour cream
2.25 oz diced black olives, drained
1.5 cups colby jack cheese, shredded and separated
Green onions, chopped
Cilantro, chopped

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375˚F.
Squeeze as much liquid from the spinach as possible.
In a large bowl mix the cream cheese and sour cream together.
Stir in the Rotel tomatoes, spinach, black olives, and 1 cup colby jack cheese. Mix until combined.
Lay chicken breasts flat in a large baking dish and spread the spinach mixture on top of the chicken.
Top with remaining colby jack cheese.
Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (165˚F internal temp).
Garnish with your choice of green onions, tomatoes, or cilantro.
Serve hot. Enjoy!

Notes

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked dish for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge before baking.
Pairing: Serve with a crisp garden salad for a refreshing contrast.
Variations: Swap out the cheese for monterey jack for a unique flavor profile.
Spice it Up: If you like heat, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spinach mixture.