Homemade Dog Food Recipe With Chicken and Spinach Casserole

Zack Keithy, our author, is a certified veterinarian technician (UC Blue Ash) for over 6 years (contact him here). The articles written here are based on his expertise and experience, combined with a review by our expert vet reviewers including Dr M. Tarantino. Learn more about us here.

Every dog parent wants their dog to thrive, bursting with energy and sporting a shiny coat.

The problem? Navigating the dizzying world of commercial dog food, with its mystery ingredients and endless recalls, can feel like a minefield.

What if you could offer your beloved companion a meal you made yourself, packed with wholesome goodness and prepared with love?

Wholesome Chicken and Spinach Casserole for Your Canine Companion

This homemade Chicken and Spinach Casserole isn’t just a meal; it’s a labor of love designed to nourish your dog from the inside out. It’s packed with lean protein, vital vitamins, and digestion-friendly fiber, making it perfect for everyday feeding or as a special treat.

With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cook time of 40 minutes, this recipe yields approximately 8-10 servings for a medium-sized dog, ensuring several days of healthy meals.

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this nutritious casserole for your dog. Each component is chosen for its health benefits and safety.

• 1.5 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast: ($6.00-$8.00) Provides lean protein essential for muscle health.
• 1 cup Rolled Oats (uncooked): ($0.50-$0.75) A gentle source of fiber for digestion and sustained energy.
• 10 oz Fresh Spinach: ($2.50-$3.50) Rich in vitamins K, A, and C, plus iron and antioxidants.
• 1 Large Carrot, peeled and grated: ($0.30-$0.50) Adds vitamin A for vision and immune support.
• 1/2 cup Green Beans, trimmed and chopped: ($0.75-$1.00) Low in calories, high in vitamins and fiber.
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil: ($0.20-$0.30) Healthy fats for skin and coat health.
• 3 cups Low-Sodium Chicken Broth (or water): ($1.50-$2.00) Adds moisture and flavor; ensure no onion or garlic.
• 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley, chopped (optional): ($0.50-$0.75) Natural breath freshener and source of vitamins.

The estimated total cost for these ingredients typically ranges from $12.25 to $16.80, offering a cost-effective alternative to many premium commercial foods.

Suitable Substitutions: Feel free to swap chicken for ground turkey or lean ground beef. Sweet potato can replace carrot for a different vitamin profile, and peas or broccoli florets can stand in for green beans.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare a delicious and healthy meal for your furry family member. Preparing homemade dog food is easier than you think!

1. Prep the Chicken: Cut the chicken breast into 1/2-inch cubes. This size ensures even cooking and is easy for dogs of all sizes to chew.
2. Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chicken cubes and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Vegetables: Stir in the grated carrot and chopped green beans. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly.
4. Incorporate Spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the pot. Cook until it wilts down completely, which usually takes only 2-3 minutes.
5. Add Oats and Broth: Stir in the rolled oats and low-sodium chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
6. Simmer and Cover: Cover the pot and let it simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the oats to cook and absorb the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
7. Bake the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish if not using an oven-safe pot. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the oats are fully cooked and fluffy.
8. Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool completely before serving. Stir in fresh parsley if using.

Feeding Guidelines

Determining the right portion size ensures your dog receives adequate nutrition without overeating. Adjustments are necessary based on your dog’s unique needs.

As a general guideline, a good starting point is approximately 1/2 cup of food per 20 pounds of body weight per day. This amount can be divided into two meals.

• Small Dogs (under 20 lbs): 1/4 to 1/2 cup per day. For example, a 10lb chihuahua might need 1/4 cup, while a 15lb terrier could have 1/3 cup.
• Medium Dogs (20-50 lbs): 1/2 to 1 cup per day. A 30lb bulldog might require 3/4 cup, whereas a 45lb shepherd mix could need 1 cup.
• Large Dogs (50+ lbs): 1 to 2 cups per day. A 60lb golden retriever might thrive on 1.25 cups, with a 90lb mastiff needing closer to 2 cups.

Puppies, highly active dogs, and lactating mothers may require more calories, while senior or less active dogs may need less. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice tailored to your dog’s specific health, activity level, and life stage.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

This Chicken and Spinach Casserole offers a powerhouse of nutrients vital for your dog’s overall health and well-being. Every ingredient plays a crucial role in supporting various bodily functions.

Chicken provides a complete protein, essential for building and repairing muscles, and supporting healthy skin and coat. It’s also a good source of B vitamins for energy metabolism.

Rolled Oats are a fantastic source of soluble fiber, which aids digestion, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and can be soothing for sensitive stomachs. They also contain essential minerals like magnesium and phosphorus.

Spinach is a superfood packed with vitamins K, A, and C, plus iron, and antioxidants. These nutrients support bone health, vision, immune function, and help combat cellular damage.

Carrots contribute beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A for excellent vision and a strong immune system. They also offer dietary fiber for gut health.

Green Beans are low in calories and provide vitamins K, C, and A, as well as fiber. They are excellent for weight management and overall vitality.

The combination of these ingredients makes for a balanced, nutrient-dense meal that supports energy, digestion, immunity, and helps maintain a healthy weight.

Storage and Serving Tips

Proper storage is crucial to maintain the freshness and safety of your homemade dog food. Always ensure the casserole has cooled completely before storing.

The casserole will stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, portion out the cooled casserole into individual serving sizes and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

To serve from frozen, thaw portions overnight in the refrigerator or gently reheat in the microwave until warm throughout. Always ensure the food is cooled to a safe temperature before offering it to your dog.

Serve the casserole at room temperature or slightly warmed for optimal palatability. You can serve it as a standalone meal or mix it with your dog’s regular kibble to add extra flavor and nutrition. Remember to always provide fresh water alongside their meal.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use different vegetables in this recipe?

Absolutely! Most dog-safe vegetables like peas, broccoli, pumpkin, or sweet potato work well. Avoid onions, garlic, and avocado, as these are toxic to dogs.

Is this recipe suitable for puppies?

While generally safe, puppies have specific nutritional requirements for growth. Consult your vet before making this a staple for puppies to ensure it meets their developmental needs.

My dog has allergies. How can I adapt this recipe?

If your dog is allergic to chicken, substitute with turkey or lean ground beef. For grain sensitivities, you can omit the oats and increase the vegetable content, though it will change the texture and nutritional profile slightly.

How do I know if my dog is getting enough nutrients from homemade food?

It’s always best to consult with a veterinary nutritionist or your regular vet when feeding homemade meals regularly. They can help ensure the diet is balanced and meets all your dog’s specific dietary needs.

Wrapping Up

Ready to ditch the guesswork and give your pup the gift of homemade goodness?

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