Creamy Keto Spinach Dip Chicken Casserole (Flavorful, Cheesy & Low-Carb!)
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this Creamy Keto Spinach Dip Chicken Casserole! Tender chicken breasts are seasoned and baked, then smothered in a rich, garlicky creamed spinach and topped with a generous blend of feta and your favorite shredded cheese. This incredibly flavorful, low-carb, high-protein, and naturally gluten-free dish is a delightful addition to your health journey, perfect for a cozy evening here in Puerto Vallarta!
Yields: 3-4 servings Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 35-40 minutes
Ingredients:
- 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 – 2 lbs total)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (divided)
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste (divided)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste (divided)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for chicken)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, loosely packed
- 8 ounces (1 block) cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes (full-fat recommended)
- ½ cup feta cheese crumbles
- ½ cup your favorite shredded cheese (e.g., mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- Optional: A tiny pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick in the spinach mixture.
Equipment:
- 9×13 inch baking dish (or a similar size that fits the chicken in a single layer)
- Small skillet
- Spoon or spatula
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven & Prep Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
- Place the chicken breasts in a single layer in your baking dish.
- Add 1 clove of minced garlic directly onto the chicken. Sprinkle generously with Italian seasoning, about ¼ teaspoon of salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Gently rub the seasonings into the chicken.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes (depending on thickness), or until the chicken is mostly cooked through but not completely done yet. (Internal temperature around 155-160°F / 68-71°C).
- Prepare Spinach Dip Topping: While the chicken is pre-baking, heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add a tiny drizzle of olive oil (about ½-1 teaspoon).
- Add the remaining 2 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the fresh spinach to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the spinach has completely wilted (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add the cubed softened cream cheese to the skillet. Stir and mash the cream cheese into the spinach until it’s completely melted and a smooth, creamy sauce forms.
- Season the spinach mixture with about ¼ teaspoon of salt and a pinch of black pepper (and optional red pepper flakes). Stir well.
- Assemble Casserole: Take the partially baked chicken out of the oven.
- Evenly spread the creamy spinach mixture over the top of each chicken breast.
- Sprinkle the feta cheese crumbles and your favorite shredded cheese over the spinach layer.
- Final Bake: Return the casserole dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F / 74°C), and the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Serve & Enjoy! Remove from the oven. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy this rich and satisfying casserole!
Tips for Success:
- Soften Cream Cheese: Ensuring your cream cheese is softened helps it melt smoothly into the spinach.
- Don’t Overcook Chicken Initially: The first bake is just to get the chicken partially cooked, as it will continue baking with the topping. This helps keep it moist.
- Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts down significantly. If using frozen, ensure it’s thawed and squeezed very dry to prevent a watery sauce.
- Cheese Choice: Feta adds a tangy, briny flavor, while mozzarella or Monterey Jack add a classic melty, mild cheese component. Feel free to adjust based on preference.
- Seasoning: Taste the spinach mixture before spreading it on the chicken and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Serving Suggestion: This casserole is fantastic on its own or served with a side of steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a simple side salad.
Recipe Analysis & Dietary Classification:
This Spinach Dip Chicken Casserole is a delicious addition to your health journey!
- High Protein: Yes, from the chicken and cheeses.
- High Fat: Yes, from the cream cheese, other cheeses, and olive oil.
- Low-Carb: Yes, this recipe is very low-carb. All listed ingredients are naturally low in carbohydrates.
- Keto: Yes, this recipe is keto-friendly. All listed ingredients are suitable for a ketogenic diet.
- Gluten-Free: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Read on How to prepare a Keto Trail Mix
