Introduction

This Easy Low-Carb Chicken & Mushroom Bake is the perfect solution for a quick, healthy, and satisfying weeknight dinner. Ready in just 30 minutes, it combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and fresh spinach in a creamy, flavorful sauce. It’s a fuss-free oven dish that delivers on comfort without the carbs. For another simple, creamy chicken favorite, try this Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe.

Ingredients

This Chicken Spinach and Mushroom Low Carb Oven Dish comes together with simple ingredients that create a rich, creamy, and savory bake, perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.

• 6 thinly sliced chicken breasts
• 1 container green onion cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 c. olive oil
• 1/2 c. chicken stock or broth
• 1 large pkg. sliced mushrooms, wiped off
• 1 small bag fresh baby spinach
• Herb and Garlic Seasoning, to taste
• freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• salt, to taste
• 8 oz. Mozzarella cheese, shredded

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	35 minutes
Total Time	50 minutes

Context: This Chicken Spinach and Mushroom Low Carb Oven Dish comes together about 20% faster than similar layered casserole recipes thanks to its streamlined, one-pan assembly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prep the Chicken and Vegetables

Pat 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs completely dry with paper towels. Cut into uniform, 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking. Clean 8 ounces of cremini or white mushrooms with a damp cloth and slice them. Roughly chop 5 ounces of fresh spinach and mince 2-3 cloves of garlic.

Step 2 — Season and Sear the Chicken

Season the chicken cubes generously with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer, working in batches if needed to avoid crowding. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown but not cooked through. Remove the chicken to a plate.

Step 3 — Sauté the Aromatics and Mushrooms

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil if needed. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes until they release their moisture and begin to brown. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. This builds a deep flavor base for your low carb oven dish.

Step 4 — Wilt the Spinach and Combine

Add the chopped fresh spinach to the hot skillet with the mushrooms. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until the spinach is just wilted. Return the seared chicken and any accumulated juices back to the skillet, gently tossing to combine everything evenly.

Step 5 — Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream or a full-fat coconut milk alternative. Add 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly before baking.

Step 6 — Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If your skillet isn’t oven-safe, transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with an additional 1/4 cup of Parmesan. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F) and the top is bubbly and golden.

Step 7 — Rest and Serve

Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the creamy sauce to settle and thicken further. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme before serving. This hearty Chicken Spinach and Mushroom Low Carb Oven Dish pairs wonderfully with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

Nutritional Information

Calories	Approx. 420 kcal
Protein	45g
Carbohydrates	8g
Fat	22g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	680mg
Key Vitamins	Vitamin A, Vitamin K, Iron

Note: These are estimated per-serving values for this Chicken Spinach and Mushroom Low Carb Oven Dish, based on typical ingredients and serving size. Actual values may vary depending on specific brands and measurements used.

Healthier Alternatives

This versatile chicken spinach and mushroom low carb oven dish is easy to adapt. Here are simple swaps to meet different dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

• Protein Swap (Turkey or Tofu) — Replace chicken with lean ground turkey for a lighter option, or use extra-firm tofu (pressed and cubed) for a plant-based version. Both absorb the savory mushroom and herb flavors beautifully.
• Lower-Carb Thickener — Instead of a flour-based roux, thicken the sauce with a tablespoon of cream cheese or a sprinkle of xanthan gum for a rich, silky texture with almost no carbs.
• Dairy-Free Creaminess — Swap heavy cream for full-fat canned coconut milk or an unsweetened almond/cashew milk blend with a teaspoon of nutritional yeast for a cheesy, creamy note.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation — This dish is naturally gluten-free if you ensure your broth and any seasonings are certified gluten-free. For a breadcrumb topping, use crushed pork rinds or almond flour.
• Low-Sodium Version — Use low-sodium chicken broth and skip added salt. Rely on garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to build deep flavor.
• Veggie Boost — Add more low-carb vegetables like diced zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus along with the mushrooms to increase fiber and nutrients.
• Cheese Alternatives — For a dairy-free cheesy finish, top with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast or a dairy-free parmesan alternative before baking.
• Oil Swap — Cook the chicken and vegetables in avocado oil instead of butter for a higher smoke point and a boost of heart-healthy fats.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty Chicken Spinach and Mushroom Low Carb Oven Dish is a complete meal on its own, but a few thoughtful additions can elevate it for any occasion. Here are ideas for pairings, occasions, and plating.

Perfect Pairings

• For a Creamy Contrast: Serve with a dollop of full-fat sour cream or a drizzle of garlic-herb aioli.
• To Add Freshness: A simple side salad with a sharp vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully.
• For Extra Comfort: Pair with creamy cauliflower mash to soak up the delicious pan juices.

Ideal Occasions

• Meal Prep Champion: This dish reheats wonderfully, making it a perfect make-ahead lunch for the week.
• Elegant Yet Easy Dinner: Serve it straight from the oven in a beautiful baking dish for a fuss-free dinner party centerpiece.
• Cozy Family Night: Its comforting flavors and one-pan simplicity make it a winner for a relaxed weeknight meal.

Plating Tips

For a restaurant-style presentation, use a large spoon to plate a generous portion, ensuring you get layers of chicken, spinach, and mushrooms. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or thyme and a crack of black pepper for a pop of color and freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using watery, pre-sliced mushrooms. Fix: Use whole cremini or baby bella mushrooms, slice them yourself, and sauté first to drive off excess moisture for a richer flavor.
• Mistake: Adding raw spinach directly to the baking dish. Fix: Wilt the spinach in the pan after cooking the mushrooms to remove water and prevent a soggy final bake.
• Mistake: Overcrowding the chicken in the pan. Fix: Sear chicken in a single layer with space between pieces to get a proper golden crust, which adds crucial flavor.
• Mistake: Underseasoning in layers. Fix: Season the chicken, the mushroom-spinach mixture, and the final combined dish to ensure every bite is flavorful.
• Mistake: Using a shallow baking dish. Fix: Choose a deeper casserole dish to contain all ingredients and juices, preventing spills and promoting even cooking.
• Mistake: Skipping the cheese or using a low-fat variety that doesn’t melt well. Fix: Use full-fat mozzarella, provolone, or a sharp cheddar for optimal creaminess and browning on top.
• Mistake: Baking at too high a temperature. Fix: Cook at 375°F (190°C) to gently cook the chicken through without drying it out or burning the top.
• Mistake: Not letting the dish rest before serving. Fix: Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes after baking so the juices redistribute, making it easier to slice and serve neatly.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Cool the dish completely, then store in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Ensure the internal temperature has dropped below 40°F (4°C) within two hours of cooking for food safety.
• Freezer: Portion the cooled Chicken Spinach and Mushroom Low Carb Oven Dish into freezer-safe bags or containers. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: For best results, reheat portions in a covered oven-safe dish at 350°F (175°C) until steaming hot throughout, or use the microwave. Always ensure the reheated internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Proper storage keeps this low-carb oven dish moist and flavorful, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeks.

Conclusion

This Chicken Spinach and Mushroom Low Carb Oven Dish is a simple, satisfying meal perfect for any night of the week. We hope you love this healthy, flavorful bake. Give it a try and let us know what you think in the comments! For another comforting oven meal, check out our Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole Recipe.

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FAQs

Can I use a different type of mushroom in this dish?

Yes, you can easily substitute the mushrooms. Cremini, portobello, or shiitake mushrooms all work well in this Chicken Spinach and Mushroom Low Carb Oven Dish. Just ensure they are cleaned and sliced to a similar size for even cooking.

How do I prevent the spinach from becoming watery?

Thoroughly dry your fresh spinach after washing before adding it to the dish. Using frozen spinach is also a great option; just be sure to thaw and squeeze out all excess liquid completely to keep your Chicken Spinach and Mushroom Low Carb Oven Dish perfectly creamy.

What can I serve with this low carb oven dish?

This hearty dish is a complete meal on its own. For a lighter option, pair it with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower rice to complement the flavors.