Creamy Chicken Spinach Pie Bake

Creamy Chicken Spinach Pie Bake is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that every home cook will cherish! This recipe combines shredded chicken, earthy spinach, and creamy feta to create a comforting dish that warms the heart. Not only is this pie bake easy to prepare, but it also comes together in a delightful step-by-step manner that makes it perfect for families or gatherings. With its golden-brown, crispy phyllo topping and aromatic herbs, this dish is bound to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One of the best aspects of this Creamy Chicken Spinach Pie Bake is its remarkable simplicity. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings. The creamy filling, packed with protein and nutrients, is a hit among both adults and children. Plus, the flaky phyllo dough offers a delightful crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the rich inside. Whether you’re looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing option or just a comforting meal at home, this recipe delivers!

Ingredients

4 cups shredded cooked chicken: Tender, juicy, and packed with protein, the shredded chicken forms the base of this savory pie.
10 oz. frozen spinach, thawed: Earthy and nutritious, spinach adds a lovely green color and health benefits to the dish. Make sure to squeeze out the excess moisture for the best results.
8 oz. feta cheese: Crumbly and tangy, feta introduces a delicious creaminess and flavor complexity.
1 1/2 cups Whole Milk Greek Yogurt: This creamy ingredient enriches the filling, adding a satisfying texture while also keeping it light.
4 cloves garlic, finely chopped: Aromatic and savory, garlic elevates the dish with its bold flavor.
3 Tbsp. chopped fresh dill: Fresh dill brings a bright, herby essence, perfect for pairing with chicken and spinach.
3 Tbsp. chopped fresh parsley: Another herbal addition, parsley adds a fresh note that balances the dish.
1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes: A hint of spice to wake up the palate without overpowering the other flavors.
Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and elevating the dish’s savory elements.
Freshly ground black pepper: Enhances the overall flavor with a bit of subtle kick.
Extra-virgin olive oil, for brushing: A light brushing of oil adds a beautiful golden hue and flakiness to the phyllo.
8 sheets phyllo dough, thawed if frozen: This pastry creates a light and crispy crust that cradles the delicious filling.
Flaky sea salt: A final touch that enhances all the flavors, making each bite truly delightful.

Step-by-Step Directions

Preheat the Oven: Start by setting your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures it reaches the perfect temperature to achieve that golden crust.
Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, thawed spinach (ensuring excess moisture is squeezed out), feta cheese, Greek yogurt, garlic, dill, parsley, and crushed red pepper flakes. Season the mix generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Prepare the Baking Pan: Brush a thin layer of olive oil over the bottom and sides of a 13-inch by 9-inch baking pan. This will prevent sticking and help the layers of phyllo to crisp up beautifully.
Layer the Phyllo: Lay one sheet of phyllo in the bottom of the pan, pressing it up the sides gently. Brush with a thin layer of oil. Repeat this process with three additional sheets of phyllo, creating a total of four layers.
Add the Filling: Spread the creamy chicken mixture evenly over the phyllo base, ensuring it’s well-distributed.
Top with More Phyllo: Lay a sheet of phyllo over the chicken filling and brush with more olive oil. Repeat this with the remaining phyllo, creating another four layers on top of the filling.
Final Touches: Once you’ve added the final layer of phyllo, brush the top with oil and sprinkle some flaky sea salt over it.
Bake: Place your pie bake in the preheated oven. Bake it for 30 to 35 minutes, covering with foil if the edges darken too quickly. Look for that perfect golden-brown hue that indicates the phyllo is beautifully crisp.
Cool and Slice: Let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing to allow the filling to set slightly.

Tips & Tricks

Phyllo Handling: Phyllo dough can dry out quickly. Keep the sheets covered with a damp cloth while you’re working to prevent them from becoming brittle.
Add More Veggies: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like diced bell peppers or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
Prep Ahead: You can prepare the filling a day in advance and assemble the dish just before baking. This can save time during busy weeknights.
Cheese Substitutes: If feta isn’t your favorite, try using ricotta or cream cheese for a different flavor profile.
Adjusting Flavor: Experiment with spices or herbs according to your preference. Some smoked paprika can add an interesting depth.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This Creamy Chicken Spinach Pie Bake shines as a standalone dish, perfect for a cozy family dinner. However, you can elevate the meal by serving it alongside a crisp green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette. For additional protein, consider pairing it with grilled vegetables or a side of yogurt sauce. It’s also great for large gatherings or as a comforting dish to share with friends and family on special occasions.

Nutritional Information

While precise nutritional details can vary, a single serving of Creamy Chicken Spinach Pie Bake typically contains around 400-450 calories. This dish is rich in protein from the chicken and yogurt, while spinach boosts its nutritional profile with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Enjoy a balanced meal by pairing it with plenty of vegetables or a whole-grain side.

Storing Tips & Variations

To store leftovers, let the pie cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, this dish freezes beautifully! Simply wrap individual slices in plastic and foil, then store in a freezer bag for up to three months. Reheat by baking from frozen at 350 degrees until warmed through.

For variations, consider trying different protein sources like cooked ground turkey or shredded pork. You could also make a vegetarian version by omitting the chicken and adding more spinach or other vegetables of your choice.

Conclusion

Now that you have this fabulous Creamy Chicken Spinach Pie Bake recipe in your hands, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! Whether you’re whipping it up for a family meal or entertaining guests, this dish is bound to impress with its comforting flavors and delightful textures. Don’t forget to share your experience or any unique twists you try—we’d love to hear from you!

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes! You can use fresh spinach, but you will need to sauté it first to reduce moisture before adding it to the mixture.

2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
No, this version uses phyllo dough, which contains gluten. However, you could use gluten-free wraps or other gluten-free dough to suit your needs.

3. How can I make this more flavorful?
Feel free to add additional spices such as paprika, oregano, or even some lemon zest for a fresh twist!

4. Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut and adds wonderful flavor to the dish.

5. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can make the filling a day before and assemble it just before baking. This is a great time-saver for busy days!