Description
Lemon Garlic Chicken & Spinach Bake is a light, flavorful, and healthy dinner featuring tender chicken marinated with lemon, garlic, and rosemary, layered over sautéed spinach and baked to perfection. A wholesome, protein-rich meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (8–10 ounces each)
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary
1 generous bunch spinach or two 6-ounce bags baby spinach
2 lightly toasted allspice berries, ground
½ teaspoon coriander seeds or cumin seeds, ground
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour or rice flour
2 tablespoons grapeseed, sunflower, or canola oil
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cut chicken breasts into halves or thirds and marinate for 15–30 minutes.
2. Combine ground allspice, coriander or cumin, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Set aside.
3. Remove chicken from marinade, pat dry, and place between sheets of oiled plastic wrap. Pound gently to ¼ inch thick.
4. Season with salt and pepper, then lightly dredge in flour.
5. Heat oil in a skillet and sear chicken for 1½ minutes per side until golden brown. Keep warm in the oven.
6. In the same pan, add the spice mix. When fragrant, add spinach, salt, and pepper. Cook 2–3 minutes until wilted. Add one minced garlic clove and a tablespoon of lemon juice to brighten the flavor.
7. Spread spinach in a baking dish, top with chicken, drizzle with olive oil, and bake at 375°F for 15 minutes until fully cooked.
8. Rest 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with lemon slices or chopped parsley.
Notes
For creaminess, add a spoonful of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of Tillamook Farmstyle Fine Cut Mexican Blend Cheese before baking.
Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven with a splash of broth.
Serve with brown rice, mashed potatoes, or quinoa for a balanced meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American-Mediterranean