Delicious Gluten-free Chicken Bake with Fresh Spinach
As a nutritionist and food blogger, I am always on the lookout for healthy and delicious recipes to share with my readers. With that in mind, I couldn’t be more excited to bring you this gluten-free chicken and spinach bake recipe.
It’s a dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, but it’s also great for meal prep. The combination of juicy chicken breasts, nutrient-rich spinach, and creamy mozzarella cheese is sure to satisfy your taste buds while keeping your health goals in check.
Plus, this recipe offers plenty of room for substitutions and variations for those who want to make it their own. Whether you’re looking for low-carb options or dairy-free alternatives, I’ve got you covered.
So get ready to preheat your oven and let me show you how to create a mouth-watering dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
My dear foodies, I am confident that you will love this gluten-free spinach chicken bake recipe as it incorporates both health and comfort in an irresistible combo. This dish is perfect if you’re looking for a filling and wholesome meal that is gluten-free, dairy-free and low-carb yet, rich and creamy.
The cheesy mozzarella with chicken thighs coated with lemon pepper, garlic cloves, and sea salt or spinach cream cheese stuffed chicken breasts, pair remarkably well with earthy portabella mushrooms and juicy tomatoes. And to top it all, the nutritious frozen chopped spinach adds a garden freshness to this hearty bake.
As someone who’s constantly seeking healthier options without compromising on taste and texture, I assure you that you won’t miss any regular ingredients in this recipe. Whether it’s a mid-week dinner or a weekend potluck event, this satisfying casserole will steal the show without stealing too much of your time.
What’s more? You can put your twist on this recipe by incorporating your favorite protein or veggies. Even non-spinach lovers will be addicted to the creamy spinach in no time! Trust me when I say that this dish is not only scrumptious but also one of the best gluten-free casseroles out there. So what are you waiting for? Give it a try today and treat your taste buds to a wholesome explosion!
Ingredient List
For this gluten-free chicken and spinach bake recipe, we will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp lemon pepper
- 2 cloves of finely chopped garlic
- 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces)
- 1 package of frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained (10 ounces)
- 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup of grated mozzarella cheese
You can also add some extra flavors by including other ingredients from the keyword list such as portabella mushrooms or artichokes. Don’t forget to check your local grocery store for gluten-free options if needed.
The Recipe How-To
Now that we’ve covered the ingredient list, it’s time to move on to the main event – cooking this gluten-free chicken and spinach bake!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F. This will ensure that your oven is ready to go when your chicken bake is all assembled and ready.
Step 2: Combine Your Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into even pieces, 8 ounces of frozen chopped spinach (thawed and drained), 2 diced tomatoes, 4 minced garlic cloves, and 2 cups of cooked brown rice.
Step 3: Add Flavorful Spices
Add in the spices – 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of lemon pepper seasoning, and a pinch of sea salt. Toss everything together so that the seasonings are distributed evenly across all ingredients.
Step 4: Layer Everything Into a Casserole Dish
Spray an oven-safe casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray. Evenly spread half of your chicken mixture into the bottom of your dish. Top with slices of large portabella mushrooms, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers one more time, making sure to end with a layer of cheese on top.
Step 5: Bake in Oven
Cover your baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for approximately 40 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking until cheese is melted and bubbly with lightly golden brown spots for an additional five minutes.
And voila! Your delicious gluten-free chicken and spinach bake is now done!
Substitutions and Variations
In cooking, substitutions and variations can bring new life into a recipe. If you’re running low on a specific ingredient or if you want to put your own spin on the classic gluten-free chicken and spinach bake, there are numerous substitutions and variations to try.
Firstly, if you’re vegetarian or want to change things up, replace the chicken breasts with portabella mushrooms for a protein-packed vegetarian option. You can also add garlic powder and lemon pepper for extra flavor. Alternatively, substitute the chicken breasts with chicken thighs to create a richer flavor profile.
For dairy-free options, substitute the mozzarella cheese with your preferred dairy-free cheese or simply omit it altogether. To make it creamy, try using dairy-free cream cheese, unsweetened almond milk, or coconut milk yogurt to achieve that creamy texture.
If you’re looking to make this recipe even healthier, swap out the brown rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice instead. Additionally, consider increasing the vegetable content by adding in some roasted tomatoes or artichokes into the mix.
To make it more low-carb or keto-friendly, substitute the brown rice with spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles instead.
Lastly, if you want something a little different but still similar in taste profile, try making a tomato spinach chicken pasta bake instead. Just add in penne pasta and freshly chopped spinach into your mixture before baking to create an easy yet scrumptious pasta dish!
The possibilities for substitutions and variations are endless when it comes to cooking – don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you and your taste buds!
Serving and Pairing
When it comes to serving and pairing this gluten-free chicken and spinach bake, there are a multitude of options you can explore. This creamy spinach chicken casserole pairs well with a variety of side dishes and beverages, and is perfect for serving as a main course for any meal of the day.
For an easy lunch or dinner, serve this chicken bake with a side of cooked brown rice or quinoa. It’s the perfect way to get a healthy dose of whole grains, while enjoying the savory flavor of the chicken and spinach bake. For something extra zesty, pair this dish with a side salad that is bright and citrusy. You can experiment with different dressings such as lemon vinaigrette or balsamic glaze for added flavor.
This chicken casserole recipe also works well as an appetizer or party dish when paired with crackers or crostini. The creamy spinach chicken filling is rich and decadent, making it perfect for entertaining guests at any party or gathering.
When it comes to beverages, try serving a refreshing glass of lemonade or iced tea to offset the richness of the dish. Alternatively, you can serve this chicken bake alongside a full-bodied red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Shiraz. The robust flavor notes in these wines can complement the earthy flavors of mushrooms and spinach in the dish.
No matter how you choose to serve it, this gluten-free chicken and spinach bake is sure to be a hit at any meal!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Preparing a dish in advance is always an excellent idea, especially for busy individuals. This is a quick, flavorful and healthy Spinach Chicken Bake that can be made ahead of time and stored easily in the refrigerator or freezer until assembly time.
Once everything has been fully cooked, you can store the chicken casserole in an airtight container and place it in the fridge for up to 3 days before consumption. But ensure that it’s completely cooled down before storing it. Reheating will only require few minutes in the oven or microwave. It’s worth mentioning that the best reheating method for this dish is in the oven, taking about 15-20 minutes at 325°F, ensuring the center is thoroughly hot.
Looking to make-ahead? This recipe stores well when frozen for up to 3 months from the instructions so that you’ll have a ready-to-go meal for busy days. If you choose to freeze it, make sure to remove all the air from the package or cover tightly with aluminum foil and plastic wrap.
To serve after defrosting, place it in the fridge overnight to thaw slowly; however, if you’re pressed for time and need a quick fix, use defrost mode on your microwave until warm enough to reheat in the oven or microwave. When reheating any leftovers either from previously cooked or frozen meals while warming up using your best judgment added to your current situation for serving as well as convenience and speed.
Tips for Perfect Results
To ensure that your gluten-free chicken and spinach bake is a success, there are some tips that you should keep in mind. These tips will not only help you achieve the perfect taste but also make the preparation process less challenging.
1. Use Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh ingredients is vital for any recipe, especially for one that contains vegetables like our gluten-free chicken and spinach bake. Fresh spinach, tomatoes, and portabella mushrooms will add to the flavor of the dish.
2. Cook Chicken to the Right Temperature
Cooking chicken to perfection can be tricky, but it’s crucial to ensure that it’s safe to eat while still moist and juicy. Make sure to use a meat thermometer and cook the chicken breasts until they reach an internal temperature of 165F (74C).
3. Allow Time for Marinating
Marinating the chicken beforehand helps to tenderize it and infuse it with added flavors. Ideally, allow at least 30 minutes for marination time so that the chicken absorbs all of the seasonings.
4. Drain Thawed Spinach Well
When using frozen chopped spinach, ensure you thaw it out completely first then drain as much water as possible out of it by squeezing it with a paper towel or cheesecloth. Excess water can make your dish too watery.
5. Use Brown Rice or Rice Alternatives
Brown rice is a perfect gluten-free option, but you can also use other grains like quinoa or wild rice as an alternative. No matter what grain you’re using, choose whole-grain options for more nutritional value.
6. Choose Lower-fat Cheese Options
Mozzarella is typically lower in fat and calories than other types of cheeses. If you’d like a different cheese option, consider using low-fat cream cheese or parmesan cheese as alternatives.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be one step closer to making delicious gluten-free chicken and spinach bake that everyone will enjoy.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this gluten-free chicken and spinach bake recipe is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy a hearty meal. With all the options for substitutions and variations, it can fit any dietary need or preference. Not only is it low in carbs, but it is also dairy-free, making it perfect for those who are lactose intolerant. This dish is simple to make and requires only a few ingredients to prepare. The creamy spinach sauce combined with the tender juicy chicken makes a mouthwatering dish that will have everybody coming back for seconds.
So why not give this recipe a try and see just how easy cooking a healthy meal can be. It’s versatile in terms of ingredients, and you’re bound to find the perfect combination for your taste buds ultimately. And don’t forget to share your experiences with your friends too!
By using fresh organic ingredients, you are taking care of your body while still enjoying comforting food. In today’s fast-paced world, we need all the health boosters we can get, and this recipe provides just that! So go ahead; make this gluten-free chicken and spinach bake part of your weekly meal plan – you won’t regret it!
Gluten Free Chicken and Spinach Bake Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 (2 lb) bags frozen chopped spinach
- 2 -3 tomatillos, cored, chopped
- 3 ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 6 garlic cloves, chopped
- sea salt
- lemon pepper
- 4 -6 ounces mozzarella cheese, marinated or plain sliced
- 4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
- 3 large chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- olive oil, as needed
- 2 large portabella mushrooms, sliced
- balsamic vinegar, as needed
- 2 cups cooked brown rice
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Thaw the spinach and pat dry in a paper towel. Scatter half of the spinach in the bottom of a 9x13 baking dish. Sprinkle half of the tomatillos, tomatoes and garlic on top. Season with sea salt and Lemon Pepper. Scatter half the cheeses. Layer the chicken. Layer other half of remaining ingredients, saving some cheese. Bake for 30 minutes, take out, layer the remaining cheese and bake for 10-15 more minutes.