home maintenance

Haunting Hazards: Appliances That Cause Fires

Keep your home, family, and investment safe with this expert-backed appliance safety guide.

It’s that time of year again. The nights grow longer, pumpkins flicker on doorsteps, and every whisper in the dark sends a shiver down your spine. You half-expect the floorboards to creak with ghosts. But before you blame specters, consider this: some of the scariest things in your house are humming and clicking right now, hiding in plain sight. This isn’t about phantom footsteps or whispering shadows. It’s about wires, motors, lint-filled vents, and components pushed past their limits. And sometimes, yes — these haunted appliances can start real fires. Let’s stroll through your home… slowly. These are the everyday appliances most likely to misbehave. Watch for them. Then prepare. Because even in a modern house, the supernatural doesn’t need to exist to get flames.




The Oven That Smolders in Silence

Your oven is supposed to cook food — not cook your wiring. Over time, grease and food debris that build up across the inside surfaces can ignite when temperatures climb during normal usage. Even a heating element or internal wire that has become worn or brittle might short out under load, especially in older units. The self-cleaning function, though designed to burn off residue, sometimes overheats parts, accelerating internal damage instead of curing it. To reduce this danger, clean spills, charred residues, and built-up grease regularly (always after the unit cools), and never leave the oven running when no one is home. If, after using it, you detect a strange smell or flicker of light behind the door glass, stop using the unit immediately and call a technician to inspect it.




The Stove That Becomes a Cauldron

Courtesy of William Hadley

Simmering sauce is one thing — but your stovetop can turn into a fire risk if you're not careful. Many home fires begin right at the stove, often from unattended cooking, oil splatters, or pans left too close to open flames. A stray drop of hot oil can leap off a pan, or a rag or piece of cookery paper too close to a burner can catch fire in seconds. The danger grows when you step away, distracted by guests, texts, or just thinking ahead. The rule is simple: stay in the kitchen while cooking. Keep everything flammable — towels, curtains, ingredient bottles — well away from the stovetop. Have a fire extinguisher in reach and know how to use it, and if grease does ignite, never toss water at it; smother it with a lid or baking soda.





The Dryer That Smells Like Smoke

Your laundry room may feel cozy, but if your dryer begins to stink of burning lint, alarm bells should ring. Dryer fires are among the most common types of appliance fires. That’s because the lint trap, internal vents, and area around the heating element are prime spots for lint to accumulate. When vents are clogged, heat has no escape, and components begin to overheat. The result can be ignition in a narrow crevice you never see. To guard against this, clean the lint trap each time you run the dryer. Vacuum lint from around the dryer and behind it often. Schedule a professional vent cleaning annually. And never try drying anything saturated with oily substances or chemical residues — that one load can be the one that sparks a disaster.





The Fridge That Overheats Behind Closed Doors

Courtesy of Stephane

Refrigerators and freezers feel safe — quiet, cold, dependable. But lurking inside that comfort can be silent dangers. Electrical wiring can fray, insulation may degrade, or component failures might cause overheating near compressors or motors. A light bulb left active when the door sticks or fails to close fully can also generate unexpected heat inside an otherwise cold cavity. Blocked airflow or dirty condenser coils force the compressor to work harder, producing more heat than it should. To avoid disaster, make sure condenser coils are dust-free, inspect cords for wear or cracks, and listen for buzzing or hums that seem out of place. At the first sign of burning plastic or anomalous heat, unplug the unit and call for a technician.








The Dishwasher That Conceals a Threat

Courtesy of LiudmilaB

Running your dishwasher while you sleep or run errands seems convenient — except that a hidden fault can turn it into a fire hazard. When a heating element shorts, when wiring gets brittle, or when a small leak allows water to reach electrical parts, sparks can develop in the dark, unnoticed. Even residual grease and stuck food bit inside filters and plumbing channels can heat up under a failing thermostat. The remedy is to operate your dishwasher while someone is home. Clean out filters and spray arms periodically to prevent buildup. During service calls, have hose connections and internal wiring inspected. That way, you won’t gamble your home’s safety on the quiet hum of a nightly cycle.







The Microwave That Turns Mischievous

Microwaves are ubiquitous — safe when used correctly, dangerous when pushed to the edge. A slip-up with metal foil or a stray spoon can cause internal sparks. Old wiring or worn components may arc under stress. And when food is overheated in non-microwave-safe containers, the internal circuits strain. That little pop or flash can quickly escalate. Use only microwave-safe dishes (no metal, no foil). At the first sign of a spark or crackle, unplug the unit immediately and discontinue use. If the problem recurs, bring in a technician to examine internal wiring and components.







The Space Heater That Creeps Too Close

Courtesy of Mircea Iancu

A space heater gives warmth and comfort — until it’s too close to flammable material. Draped sheets, furniture edges, curtains, or rug fibers all pose ignition risks when placed too near. A heater plugged into an extension cord or overloaded outlet compounds danger. Running a heater while you sleep or leave the house is just asking for trouble. Always maintain a buffer zone of at least three feet around space heaters. Plug them only into dedicated wall outlets (never into power strips or extension cords). And for safety, turn them off whenever you wake up or step out.





The Hidden Peril of Power Strips & Cords

Courtesy of Hucklebarry

You might start by plugging in one device, then another, then another — until an overloaded power strip becomes a ticking time bomb. Strips burdened with high-wattage appliances can overheat internally and spark. Running cords under rugs or behind heavy furniture wears insulation and traps heat. Frayed or damaged cords arc internally, igniting nearby material. Use surge protectors only for low-power electronics, never for major appliances. Keep cords visible, never pin them under rugs or furniture, and immediately replace any wire that shows wear, cracking, or exposed conductors.







When the Haunting Turns Real

A flicker in a hallway, a whiff of burning plastic, a breaker that trips again — those are not supernatural signs, they’re alarms your house is sounding. If you detect smoke or odd electrical hums, unplug the appliance (if it’s safe to do so) and shut the circuit off at the breaker. Don’t ever re-energize it, even just to “test.” Call a qualified electrician or appliance technician to assess the damage. Sometimes the fix is simple: cleaning vents, replacing wiring, or tightening connections. Other times, a full repair or replacement is necessary. The point is this: minor flaws can escalate fast. Don’t wait.







Don’t Let Your Home Become a Horror Show

You decorate your yard for jolts and thrills. You carve pumpkins and hand out candy. But inside — deep in your walls and behind your appliances — you want stability, safety, and silence. By staying vigilant, cleaning regularly, and calling professionals at the first hint of trouble, you right the balance. You transform your home from a potential haunted maze into a secure sanctuary.








This Halloween, don’t blame ghosts if your home begins to hiss, spark, or groan. Most of what seems haunted is just an appliance — stressed, neglected, or failing. And those appliances are likely your refrigerator, oven, stove, freezer, washer, dryer, dishwasher, or ice maker. If any of these major units act up, give Appliance Rescue Service a call. Whether it's inspection, maintenance, or repairs, we specialize in taming those haunted machines. Let us quiet your home and restore peace — no exorcist needed.

Stay safe. Stay observant. And let your only chills this season come from ghosts in films — not your appliances.







Website

Call: (214) 599-0055

Gross Truths About Appliance Filters (and How to Clean Them Right)

Learn when to clean and when to replace filters in your home’s most-used appliances.

When it comes to keeping your home running smoothly, the little things make a big difference—and few things are littler than your appliance filters. They sit quietly inside your fridge, dishwasher, dryer, microwave, and even your HVAC system, working day after day to keep your air cleaner, your water fresher, and your appliances safe from strain.

But here’s the catch: filters only do their job if you take care of them. Cleaning and replacing them on schedule is one of the simplest ways to extend the life of your appliances, save energy, and avoid bigger repairs down the road. The good news? With just a few minutes of attention, you can keep your home’s filters in great shape.


Refrigerator – Water Filter

Your refrigerator’s water filter works hard behind the scenes to make sure every glass of water and ice cube is clean, fresh, and safe to drink. When it’s neglected, the results show up quickly in taste, smell, and even how well the dispenser works.

So, how do you take care of it?

  • Locate the filter (commonly in a grille at the base, inside an upper corner, or behind a panel).

  • Shut off the water if your model requires it.

  • Twist or release the old filter and pull it out.

  • Insert the new filter, making sure it locks in place.

  • Run and discard 2–3 gallons of water through the dispenser to flush out air and activate the filter.

  • Reset the filter indicator light if your fridge has one.






-courtesy-of-Lowes

Cleaning Frequency: Replace every 6 months, or every 3–4 months for heavy use, larger households, or poor water quality.
Signs to Watch For: Cloudy water, slower dispenser flow, smaller or misshapen ice, odd taste or smell, strange noises, or a filter indicator light.
What Happens if I Don’t? You may end up drinking contaminated water, dealing with mold and bacteria buildup, or facing a clogged dispenser or ice maker.

Refrigerator – Air Filter

The air filter inside your fridge helps control odors, slow down bacteria growth, and keep food fresher for longer. A clean air filter means your fridge smells pleasant and your groceries last as they should.

So, how do you take care of it?

  • Locate the filter (typically near the back wall or ceiling inside the fridge).

  • Remove the cover and the old filter.

  • Insert the new filter into the holder.

  • Reattach the cover and reset the filter indicator if your fridge has one.

Courtesy-of-Frigidaire

Cleaning Frequency: Replace every 6 months, or up to 12 months in lower-use households.
Signs to Watch For: Lingering odors, food spoiling faster than usual, or a filter alert light.
What Happens if I Don’t? Odors linger, bacteria spreads, food spoils more quickly, and you may notice a stale or musty smell in your fridge even after cleaning.








Dishwasher Filter

Your dishwasher’s filter is what stands between you and gritty, dirty dishes. It traps leftover food scraps and keeps the drain from clogging. Clean it regularly, and your dishes come out sparkling. Neglect it, and you’ll start to smell the difference.

So, how do you take care of it?

  • Remove the bottom rack to reach the filter, usually found under the spray arms.

  • Twist and lift the filter out (some models have multiple pieces).

  • Rinse under hot water to remove debris.

  • Use a sponge or small brush with mild soap for stubborn grime.

  • Reinstall the filter securely, then replace the rack.







Courtesy-of-Thumbtack

Cleaning Frequency: Clean every 1–4 weeks depending on usage. Manufacturers often recommend every 2–3 months. Some models have indicators after about 50 wash cycles.
Signs to Watch For: Gritty dishes, foul odor, drainage issues, or visible debris in the filter.
What Happens if I Don’t? Food debris builds up, leaving dishes dirty and smelly. Clogs can cause water backup, drainage issues, and even damage to the pump.






Microwave Filters – Grease & Charcoal

Over-the-range microwaves have two filters: grease filters that trap cooking residue, and charcoal filters that absorb odors. Keeping them clean means better ventilation and a fresher kitchen.

Grease Filter – How to Clean:

  • Unplug the microwave.

  • Slide or unclip the filter from the underside.

  • Soak in hot, soapy water (add a little baking soda for heavy grease).

  • Scrub gently with a dish brush, rinse thoroughly, and air-dry.

  • Reinstall when fully dry.





Charcoal Filter – How to Replace:

  • Unplug the microwave.

  • Remove the vent panel screws.

  • Take out the old charcoal filter.

  • Insert the new one in the correct position.

  • Reattach the panel and screws.


Cleaning Frequency: Grease filters should be cleaned monthly (or every 1–3 months with lighter cooking). Charcoal filters must be replaced every 6 months.
Signs to Watch For: Lingering smoke, persistent kitchen odors, or reduced vent performance.
What Happens if I Don’t? Odors and smoke linger, grease builds up, efficiency drops, and overheating becomes a risk.






Clothes Dryer – Lint Filter

Every load of laundry leaves behind lint, and your dryer filter’s job is to catch it. Clean it after each use, and your clothes will dry faster and safer.

So, how do you take care of it?

  • Pull out the lint filter and remove lint by hand after each load.

  • Once a month, scrub the filter with a brush in warm, soapy water.

  • Rinse thoroughly and let dry completely before replacing.

Cleaning Frequency: After every load for lint removal, and once a month for a deeper wash.
Signs to Watch For: Longer drying times, overheating, burning smell, or visible lint buildup in the vent.
What Happens if I Don’t? Expect slower drying, higher energy bills, damage to the dryer, and a serious fire risk from lint buildup.






HVAC / Air Conditioner

Your HVAC system is a home necessity when it comes to living in Texas, and that means taking care of it is too. Cleaning out the filters on it fights on two fronts: preventing excess strain on the system and keeping the air clean inside your home. In case you didn’t know, your HVAC system keeps the air clean by trapping dust, pollen, and other contaminants.

So, how do you take care of it?

  • Turn off the power to the unit.

  • Find the filter and inspect it for damage (there may be more than one—your manual will tell you).

  • Vacuum the filter with a soft brush attachment to remove loose debris.

  • For a deeper clean, soak it in hot water and white vinegar for 1 hour.

  • Rinse with clean water and let dry fully.

  • Replace the filter, ensuring it’s positioned correctly for airflow.





Cleaning Frequency: Reusable filters should be cleaned once a month and replaced every six. Disposable filters should be replaced every 1–3 months.
Signs to Watch For: Reduced airflow, increased dust in the home, or visible dirt on the filter.
What Happens if I Don’t? You’ll deal with higher energy bills, dirtier air inside your home, reduced airflow, and possible breakdowns in the system.






Filter care may not be glamorous, but it’s one of the smartest habits a homeowner can keep. Staying on top of these small maintenance tasks gives you cleaner air, safer water, fresher food, and peace of mind that your appliances are working their best.

And when the job calls for more than a filter swap—whether it’s a repair, replacement, or expert advice—ARS is here to help. Our team is dedicated to keeping your home comfortable and your appliances running smoothly, so you can focus on what matters most.






Website

Call: (214) 599-0055








Additional Reading

4 Steps To A Clean Range Hood 

Why Is My Oven Smelling So Strange? 

Don't Overlook Your Ice Maker: The Benefits of Regular Cleaning

Spring Home Maintenance Checklist: Avoid Costly Repairs with These Must-Do Tasks

Spring is the perfect time to refresh your home—inside and out. Here’s what every homeowner should do this season.

Although it feels like winter has already left us here in Texas, in theory spring is not here yet. But as the days grow longer, it's the perfect time to refresh your home and shake things out after being inside all winter. The transition isn't just about spring cleaning, it's about ensuring your home is in top shape to prevent expensive repairs down the line. From the roof to the foundation inside and out here's our spring guide for getting your home ready for warmer months.

Exterior Maintenance: Protecting Your Home’s First Line of Defense

Roof & Gutters: Inspect and Clear Winter’s Aftermath


After months of exposure to harsh winter weather, your roof and gutters need attention. Inspect the roof for missing or damaged shingles, as these can lead to leaks that compromise your home’s structure. If you do  notice sagging, or any signs of water damage, call a professional before small issues turn into costly repairs.

Courtesy of 123switch

Gutters and downspouts also take a beating during winter. Here, you'll need to clear out leaves, twigs, and other debris to ensure proper drainage. Clogged gutters can lead to water damage, including foundation problems and basement flooding is left in tended.  If you haven't already, consider installing gutter guards to make upkeep easier.

Windows & Doors: Improve Efficiency and Let in the Light

Let's move on to windows and doors. With warmer weather approaching, it’s time to prepare your windows and doors for fresh air and sunshine. Inspect seals, weatherstripping and caulking for cracks or gaps that could allow cool air to escape, leading to higher energy costs. Re-caulking these areas helps maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. (And given our location, we need all the help we can get.)

Courtesy of Pexels

Give your exterior windows a thorough washing to remove winter grime and improve natural light. Also, check window and door screens for any tears or damage—repairing them now will prevent pests from sneaking inside when you open your home to spring breezes. The great news is that if there are any small tears, you can now buy patches instead of having to replace the full screen. 

Driveway & Walkways: Repair Winter’s Wear and Tear

A tree is torn up from the sidewalk with roots exposed thanks to water damage and wind.

Most cracked sidewalks will be smaller than this, but it's worth checking.

Cold temperatures and moisture can wreak havoc on your driveway and walkways. You'll need to look for cracks, potholes, or uneven surfaces that could become safety hazards. Sealing and repairing these issues early will prevent further deterioration and ensure safe passage for your family and guests. 

Outdoor Faucets & Sprinklers: Restore Water Flow

If you turned off exterior water sources for the winter, now’s the time to turn them back on. You'll also want to remove any foam protectors that you placed, as during warm months, those can be top homes for bugs and mice. Check for leaks in outdoor faucets and hoses, and ensure your sprinkler system is working properly. If you do have a sprinkler system, take the time to adjust the coverage to make sure all of your lawn gets water. 


Yard & Landscaping: Refresh and Revitalize

Winter can leave your yard looking a little worse for wear. Before you start gardening, you'll want to get it cleaned up. Start by removing debris such as fallen branches and leaves. Prune overgrown trees and hedges, especially those near your home, to prevent damage from high winds during spring storms. Adding mulch and ground cover will help to retain moisture and suppress weeds—refresh these areas for a polished, healthy landscape. 

Interior Maintenance: A Fresh Start for Your Living Spaces

HVAC System: Prepare for Warmer Days

Courtesy of Chad Populis

Let's get the biggest task out of the way first. Before the heat of summer sets in, you will want to schedule a professional inspection and tune-up for your air conditioning system. Regular maintenance keeps your HVAC system running efficiently and prevents breakdowns during peak usage. While you wait for that date to roll around, you can replace your HVAC and furnace filters to improve air quality and keep your home comfortable.

Kitchen & Appliances: Deep Clean and Maintain for Efficiency

A dirty vent hood that needs to be cleaned this spring.

Your kitchen appliances work hard year-round, and spring is a great time to give them a little TLC. Clean the range hood and vent filters to prevent grease buildup, which can be a fire hazard. (Especially after all of the heavy foods from the holidays.) You'll also want to check and clean your dishwasher and washing machine filters to ensure they operate at peak efficiency.

Courtesy of Kristoferb

Your refrigerator also needs attention—vacuum the coils to improve efficiency and check that the seals are intact to maintain proper cooling. If you have a chest freezer, warmer days mean it is easier to defrost it if ice buildup exceeds 1/4 inch. After all, spring is a great time to start laying in pre-made meals for less cooking during summer. 

Bathrooms & Plumbing: Prevent Costly Water Damage

A few simple checks can help avoid plumbing headaches down the road. Start off by inspecting your pipes for leaks and weak water pressure. You'll also want to clean the sink and shower drains to prevent any clogs. It's also an ideal time to descale your shower head, as it should be done once a quarter. 

General Home Upkeep: Refresh Your Space

Spring cleaning isn’t just about tidying up—it’s about maintaining your home’s condition, especially after being inside and with guests all winter. Take this time to wash sofa covers, wipe down walls, and remove scuff marks. These small touches can make your home feel bright and renewed.

By tackling these maintenance tasks early in the season, you’ll ensure a smooth transition into spring and summer. A little effort now can save time, money, and stress in the long run—helping you enjoy the warmer months with peace of mind.

If you find that any of your appliances are giving you trouble, you can reach out to us at Appliance Rescue Service. While we aren't great at spring cleaning, we are fantastic at keeping your appliances running while you do. Even better we will work with you to find a time that best fits your schedule this spring for our technicians to visit. You can reach out to us at our website or give us a call to get started on scheduling a maintenance visit.


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Courtesy of Monika

5 Ways to Show Your Appliances Some Love (and Keep Them Running Longer!)

Keep Your Home Running Smoothly with These Simple TLC Tips

While your appliances may not be able to say "thank you," they do a lot to make your life easier. And just like any hardworking partner, they deserve a little appreciation! So why not return the favor? This week, we’re sharing five simple ways you can show some TLC to your appliances—because a little care today means a longer, smoother-running life for them (and fewer headaches for you).




1. Make Sure They're on the Level

In any good relationship, balance is key, including your relationship with your appliances! Ensuring that your appliances are properly leveled might not seem like a big deal, but it can greatly impact their performance and longevity.




Take your refrigerator, for example. If it's not level, you may notice that the door doesn’t close all the way, leading to cool air escaping and higher energy bills. You might also have issues with food and drinks sliding around on uneven shelves. For your washer and dryer, being uneven can cause excessive vibrations that rattle the machine. This leads to damage over time to the gears and motors. A wobbly washer can also "walk" itself out of position, pulling on hoses and a risk of leaks or flooding. And let’s not forget your oven—if it’s sitting at an angle, you could end up with unevenly cooked meals. 




The good news? Checking and leveling your appliances is a simple! Many appliances have adjustable feet that you can tweak to ensure they’re sitting evenly. If you’re unsure how to do this, our team at Appliance Rescue Service is happy to help!




2. A Descale Treatment Works Wonders

A relaxing spa treatment can leave you feeling refreshed—and your appliances can benefit from that kind of care. Over time, minerals from your water can build up inside appliances that rely on water flow. Your refrigerator, washing machine, and dishwasher are some examples. This buildup, commonly known as scale, can slow down water movement, clog hoses, and even cause parts to wear out prematurely. 




If you’ve ever noticed your washing machine taking longer to fill, your dishwasher not cleaning as well as it used to, or your refrigerator’s water dispenser running sluggishly, scale buildup could be the cause. Even if you don’t have hard water, mineral deposits still accumulate over time, making descaling an important part of routine appliance care.




Luckily, keeping buildup at bay is easy! Many appliances have specific descaling products designed for them, and running a cleaning cycle every few months can keep things running smoothly. If you're unsure where to start, a professional technician can help by performing a deep-clean descaling service to get everything back in top shape.





3. Help Them Get Organized

Love isn’t just about grand gestures—sometimes, it’s about the little things, like keeping things neat and organized. Your refrigerator, in particular, benefits from a little tidying up.





An overstuffed fridge isn’t just a hassle when you’re trying to find last night’s leftovers. It can also interfere with airflow, causing uneven cooling. Hot spots and cold spots can develop, leading to food spoiling too quickly or, in some cases, freezing when it shouldn’t. Plus, when your fridge has to work harder to maintain a steady temperature, it uses more energy, which can drive up your electricity bill.





To help your fridge function at its best, take some time to reorganize it:





Keep vents clear so air can circulate freely.

Group similar items together so you can find what you need easily.

Check expiration dates and remove anything past its prime.

Wipe down shelves regularly to keep things clean and fresh.





4. Give Them a Good Scrub

We all feel better after a nice, deep clean—and your appliances are no different! While regular wipe-downs help keep things looking tidy, every now and then, your appliances need a little extra attention to prevent buildup and ensure they keep running smoothly.


Your dishwasher, for example, can collect food particles, soap scum, and grease over time, which can clog filters and reduce its efficiency. Running a cleaning cycle with a dishwasher-safe cleaner once a month helps remove grime and keeps it working properly.


Your washing machine also benefits from a good scrub. Dirt, detergent residue, and even mildew can accumulate inside, especially in front-loading machines. Running a cleaning cycle with a washing machine cleaner or a vinegar solution helps keep unpleasant odors at bay and ensures your clothes come out fresh.


And don’t forget the outside of your appliances! Dust and grease can build up on refrigerator coils, stovetops, and even dryer vents. A quick wipe-down with warm, soapy water or a specialized cleaner can help keep things looking and working their best.

5. Treat Them to a Spa Day (a.k.a. a Maintenance Check)

You might not be able to send your appliances to a spa, but a maintenance check from a professional technician is the next best thing! Regular maintenance is one of the best ways to prevent unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs.

A trained technician can:


Check for signs of wear and tear before they turn into major problems.

Ensure all parts are functioning properly and efficiently.

Clean internal components to remove buildup and improve performance.

Make small adjustments that can extend the life of your appliances.

Think of it like a wellness check-up—your appliances might seem fine, but routine maintenance can catch minor issues before they become major headaches. Whether it’s a refrigerator that isn’t cooling quite like it used to or a dryer that’s taking longer than normal, a professional tune-up can keep everything in peak condition.

A little love goes a long way—especially when it comes to your appliances! Keeping them leveled, descaled, clean, and well-organized can make a big difference in their efficiency and lifespan. And when it’s time for a little extra care, our team at Appliance Rescue Service is here to help! Whether you need a maintenance check, a repair, or just some expert advice, our technicians are ready to keep your home running smoothly.

So go ahead—show your appliances some love today! They’ll thank you with years of reliable service.




A Taste of Autumn: Easy Chicken Bake with Spinach and Artichokes

A quick, comforting recipe that brings the essence of fall to your dinner table.

Looking for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner that captures the essence of fall? This creamy chicken bake is not only packed with savory flavors but also brings a touch of autumn warmth to your table. With its blend of artichokes, spinach, and comforting cheese, this dish combines the richness of fall with the ease of a one-dish meal. Perfect for those crisp evenings when you want something hearty and satisfying, here’s how to make it:


Ingredients 

3-4 thawed chicken breasts

1/2 cup sour cream

6 ounces chicken broth

1 can quartered artichoke hearts

2 generous handfuls fresh baby spinach

1 teaspoon parsley

1 teaspoon oregano

1 teaspoon Kinder's onion-butter seasoning 

2 oz grated mozzarella cheese

2 tablespoons parmesan cheese

Olive oil spray

Salt and pepper to taste



Tools


Square baking dish

Measuring cups and spoons

Bowl

Spoon

Aluminum foil


If your spinach isn't already washed, please take a minute to get that done. Baby spinach can harbor some hitchhikers in our experience. Let it drain out any excess water while you divert your attention to other things.


Preheat the oven to 450.


Sprinkle a little bit of salt on your chicken breasts, but leave them where they are for now. 


Spray the bottom of your baking dish with the olive oil spray and set it aside. (The olive oil will make it that much easier to clean up later.) 


Thin 1/4 cup of sour cream with two to three ounces of chicken broth. At first, it will look like it will never mix, but just keep stirring. You'll get there. Once it's combined, transfer it into the oiled baking dish.


Pop the can of artichoke hearts and drain the water. Then give it a shake and drain it again. You might be surprised how much water hides out in the can even after you've flipped it completely upside-down. Layer the artichoke pieces into the sour cream.


Grab your spinach and place it in an even layer over the artichoke hearts. 


Thin the remaining 1/4 cup of sour cream the same way you did before, and drizzle just a little of it over the spinach. 


Place the chicken breasts in a single layer on top to weigh down the spinach, then drizzle the remaining sour cream mixture over the top of everything. 


Sprinkle everything with salt and black pepper (if desired), oregano, parsley, and onion butter seasoning.


Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil. This step keeps the moisture in, ensuring that the chicken remains juicy while it bakes. Bake for 20-40 minutes at 450. Thinner pieces of chicken will, of course, be done quicker. We had a pretty hefty chunk and ended up baking for close to 45 minutes to make sure it was done.


When time is up, remove the pan from the oven and take off the foil. Test for doneness (chicken's safe internal temperature is 165). Move the oven rack closer to the broiler and reset the oven to broil.


Top the chicken with a layer of grated mozzarella, sprinkle the dried parmesan on top of that, and return to oven for 10 more minutes to broil.


This creamy chicken bake is the perfect way to embrace the flavors of fall. With its hearty ingredients and comforting, cheesy topping, it’s a meal that will warm you up on those cooler evenings. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete, seasonal dinner. Enjoy the cozy, fall-inspired flavors in every bite!


As you enjoy this comforting fall dish, it’s a great time to think about preparing your home for the season ahead. Just as hearty meals warm you from the inside out, well-maintained appliances keep your household running smoothly and efficiently as the temperatures drop. Fall is the ideal season to check off those important maintenance tasks, like cleaning out vents, checking seals on your fridge, and making sure your oven is ready for holiday cooking. These small efforts now can prevent bigger issues later, giving you peace of mind as you settle into the cozy comfort of autumn evenings.

If you do run into any issues or need professional assistance, our team at Appliance Rescue Service is here to help. Whether it’s a quick repair or a thorough appliance check-up, our technicians are equipped to handle it all, ensuring your home stays functional and cozy throughout the season. There’s no need to let appliance troubles disrupt your fall festivities. Call on us for reliable, expert service, so you can focus on savoring your fall meals and the warmth of home without worry. Let us handle the hard work so you can enjoy the season to its fullest.


Website

Call: (214) 599-0055

Additional Reading

From Summer to Fall: Thai Curry Sweet Potatoes You’ll Love

Prepare Your Home for Fall: Essential Maintenance Tips

Impress Your Guests with This Easy-to-Make Apple Pecan French Toast Bake