Smothered Baked Chicken with Creamed Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

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Golden, juicy chicken breasts smothered in a velvety garlic cream sauce, layered with sautéed spinach and bursting with tangy sun-dried tomatoes — this dish is everything you crave in a cozy, indulgent meal. The contrast between the crisp-edged chicken and the creamy, savory topping makes every bite a satisfying explosion of flavors and textures.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just looking for a new weeknight favorite, this baked chicken recipe brings restaurant-quality elegance to your table with minimal effort. It’s a one-pan wonder that feels gourmet but is easy enough for any skill level.

Why You’ll Love This Smothered Baked Chicken

This dish combines everything we love: rich and creamy sauce, seasoned to perfection chicken, and nutrient-packed spinach. It’s gluten-free, naturally low in carbs, and perfect for both casual dinners or impressive gatherings. You’ll love how the sun-dried tomatoes add tang and texture, while the cream sauce ties everything together into a comforting, flavorful masterpiece.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the best choice here because they cook evenly and absorb flavor beautifully. If you prefer, you could also substitute with boneless thighs for a juicier cut, though they may require a slightly longer cooking time. The key is to pound your chicken to an even thickness so it cooks perfectly all the way through.

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Ingredients for the Smothered Baked Chicken with Creamed Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Each ingredient in this dish plays a flavorful and essential role in making the chicken rich, juicy, and utterly satisfying.

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: These are the star of the dish, lean and easy to cook evenly.
• Olive oil: Used for searing the chicken to create a golden crust and for sautéing the spinach.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic gives the sauce its fragrant, savory depth.
• Heavy cream: This forms the base of the luscious, creamy sauce.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty, salty flavor that thickens and enriches the sauce.
• Fresh spinach: Lightly wilted in the sauce, it adds freshness and nutrition.
• Sun-dried tomatoes: Bring a sweet, tangy burst and chewy texture to contrast the creamy elements.
• Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Salt and pepper: For basic seasoning to bring out all the other flavors.

How To Make the Smothered Baked Chicken with Creamed Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry, season them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then sear them in olive oil over medium-high heat until golden on both sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce Base

In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Add the Flavor Boosters

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts down and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Smother and Bake

Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy spinach and tomato mixture over the top. Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven, let rest a few minutes, then plate and spoon extra sauce over each serving.

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Serving and Storing Smothered Baked Chicken with Creamed Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

This dish serves 4 people generously and is perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and more formal occasions. For best presentation, spoon the creamy spinach and tomato sauce generously over the top of each chicken breast right before serving.

To store leftovers, allow the chicken to cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of cream or broth to bring the sauce back to life.

What to Serve With Smothered Baked Chicken?

Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes make an excellent base to soak up that dreamy sauce.

Garlic Bread

Crusty garlic bread is perfect for sopping up every last bit of the creamy spinach and sun-dried tomato goodness.

Roasted Vegetables

Add a splash of color and texture with oven-roasted carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts.

Rice Pilaf

A fragrant rice pilaf can balance the richness of the cream sauce.

Cauliflower Mash

For a low-carb alternative, creamy cauliflower mash works beautifully.

Steamed Asparagus

Simple steamed asparagus offers a crisp, fresh contrast.

Side Salad

A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the creaminess of the chicken dish.

Pasta

Serve over fettuccine or penne for a hearty Italian-style dinner.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the entire dish up to a day in advance and reheat it in the oven at 325°F until warmed through. Add a splash of cream if the sauce thickens too much.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely. Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the sauce.

What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?
You can substitute them with cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

Is this dish keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs and high in fat, making it a great fit for keto diets. Just make sure to skip starchy sides.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner ideas board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add mushrooms or use mozzarella? Did you go spicy with red pepper flakes?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other cook smarter.

Find more comforting meals and easy dinner ideas on my Pinterest: Meals We Share By Sally

Conclusion

Smothered Baked Chicken with Creamed Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that looks elegant but comes together with everyday ingredients. With its creamy texture, bold flavors, and gorgeous presentation, it’s bound to become a repeat favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re feeding your family or entertaining guests, this recipe delivers comfort and flavor every time.

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