Embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Greece with our Creamy Chicken Spanakopita Bake: A Greek-Inspired Comfort. This dish reinvents the traditional spanakopita, combining tender, juicy chicken and a creamy, spinach-filled layer, all encased in crispy phyllo pastry. It's a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, offering a comforting and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're gathering with family or enjoying a quiet night in, this bake promises to transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with every bite.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 6
- Serving Size: 1 slice
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 690mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
Ingredients
- 450g (1 lb) chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 300g (10.5 oz) frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 200g (7 oz) feta cheese, crumbled
- 100g (3.5 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried dill
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 10 sheets of phyllo pastry
- 100g (3.5 oz) unsalted butter, melted
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Detailed Method of Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, spinach, feta cheese, cream cheese, onion, garlic, dill, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Lay one sheet of phyllo pastry in the prepared baking dish, brushing lightly with melted butter. Repeat with four more sheets, ensuring each layer is buttered.
- Spread the chicken and spinach mixture evenly over the phyllo base.
- Cover the filling with the remaining phyllo sheets, brushing each with butter as before.
- With a sharp knife, score the top layer of phyllo into portions to make serving easier after baking. Brush the top with the remaining butter and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the phyllo is golden brown and crispy.
- Allow to cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Keep the phyllo pastry covered with a damp cloth while working to prevent it from drying out.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute the cream cheese with ricotta.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the filling for an extra tangy kick.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen? Yes, you can use fresh spinach. Cook it down first to reduce its volume and moisture content.
- How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain the phyllo's crispiness.
- Can I freeze this dish? It's best enjoyed fresh. Freezing may cause the phyllo pastry to become soggy upon reheating.
As you enjoy the last bite of the Creamy Chicken Spanakopita Bake, let the flavors and textures linger, a delightful reminder of the culinary treasures the Mediterranean has to offer. This dish, a warm embrace of comfort and tradition, is sure to become a cherished recipe in your home, bringing a piece of Greek culinary artistry to your table. May the joy of cooking and sharing such a meal inspire more gastronomic adventures in your kitchen.