Mexican Spinach Chicken Bake

If you’re on the hunt for a delicious, hearty, and comforting dish that will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of Mexico, look no further than this Mexican Spinach Chicken Bake. This recipe brings together tender, juicy chicken breasts, creamy cheese, and a medley of bold flavors that create a satisfying meal perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re preparing for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this bake is sure to become a favorite in your household.

What Makes This Recipe Special

What sets this Mexican Spinach Chicken Bake apart is its delightful combination of creamy textures and zesty flavors. The dish features layers of succulent chicken, rich cream cheese, and a burst of flavor from the Rotel tomatoes with green chiles, all topped with melted Colby Jack cheese. Moreover, the addition of spinach not only enhances the nutritional value but also adds a pop of color that makes this dish visually appealing. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.

What Goes In

To create this mouthwatering Mexican Spinach Chicken Bake, gather the following ingredients:

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

Toolbox for This Recipe

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, here’s what you’ll need:

• Large mixing bowl – for combining the creamy filling.
• 9×13 inch baking dish – to layer and bake the chicken.
• Skillet – for browning the chicken before baking.
• Cooking spray or oil – to prevent sticking.
• Meat thermometer – to ensure the chicken is cooked to perfection.

Mexican Spinach Chicken Bake in Steps

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Mexican Spinach Chicken Bake cooks evenly and thoroughly.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of cooking oil. Season the 2 lbs of boneless skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until browned and almost cooked through. Remove from heat and let it rest.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, thawed spinach, drained black olives, and the can of Rotel tomatoes with green chiles. Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken has cooled slightly, shred it into bite-sized pieces. This will help it mix evenly with the creamy spinach mixture.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Gently fold the shredded chicken into the creamy mixture until everything is well incorporated.

Step 6: Assemble the Bake

In your greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spread half of the creamy chicken mixture evenly. Then, layer half of the shredded Colby Jack cheese over it. Repeat the process with the remaining chicken mixture and top with the remaining cheese.

Step 7: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, let your Mexican Spinach Chicken Bake cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro before serving.

Health-Conscious Tweaks

Making this dish a bit healthier is easy with a few simple swaps:

• Use reduced-fat cream cheese and sour cream for a lighter version.
• Opt for grilled chicken instead of pan-frying for less oil.
• Add more vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrients.
• Replace Colby Jack cheese with a lower-fat cheese option if desired.

Flavor Logic

The flavor profile of the Mexican Spinach Chicken Bake is a harmonious blend of creamy, savory, and slightly spicy elements. The cream cheese and sour cream create a luscious base that complements the tender chicken, while the Rotel tomatoes provide a zesty kick. The black olives add a briny depth, and the melted cheese ties everything together with its gooey goodness. Each bite is bursting with flavor, making it a satisfying dish that will delight your taste buds.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

This Mexican Spinach Chicken Bake is perfect for leftovers and meal prep. Here are some tips:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave. This dish also freezes well; simply cover it tightly and store it for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until heated through.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Absolutely! If using fresh spinach, you’ll need about 4 cups. Sauté it briefly until wilted before adding it to the creamy mixture.

What can I substitute for Colby Jack cheese?

You can use any shredded cheese you prefer, such as Monterey Jack, Cheddar, or even a Mexican cheese blend for added flavor.

Is this dish spicy?

The heat level depends on the Rotel tomatoes with green chiles you use. If you’re sensitive to spice, opt for mild varieties or use regular diced tomatoes instead.

Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dish and assemble it up to a day in advance. Just cover it and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

Try These Next

If you enjoyed this Mexican Spinach Chicken Bake, you might also love these recipes:

• Cheesy Chicken Poblano Penne Bake
• Spinach Artichoke Chicken Pasta Bake

Bring It Home

There you have it—an easy and delicious Mexican Spinach Chicken Bake that’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and a hint of spice, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply treating yourself to a comforting meal, this recipe is a must-try. Embrace the flavors of Mexico and indulge in this delightful bake, and enjoy every delicious bite!

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