Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is a comforting, creamy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or meal prep. This easy-to-make casserole combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich cream cheese sauce for a meal that’s both delicious and nutritious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy and Flavorful: The cream cheese sauce adds a luscious texture and flavor to every bite.
- Packed with Nutrients: Spinach and chicken provide a hearty dose of protein and vitamins.
- One-Dish Wonder: Easy to assemble and bake, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Fresh spinach
- Cream cheese, softened
- Heavy cream
- Garlic, minced
- Onion, finely chopped
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper
- Optional: Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes for added flavor
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with olive oil or butter.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Cook the chicken until browned on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Sauté the Spinach:
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and onion, cooking until fragrant.
- Add spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
- In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan until smooth. Add salt, pepper, and optional seasonings to taste.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Spread the sautéed spinach in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Place the cooked chicken over the spinach.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the chicken, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair with rice, pasta, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Serves 4-6
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Add Veggies: Include mushrooms, broccoli, or zucchini for added flavor and texture.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve the casserole over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
- Herbs and Spices: Enhance the dish with fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or parsley.
- Cheese Swap: Use Gruyère or cheddar instead of mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the casserole in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, thaw frozen spinach and squeeze out excess moisture before using.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
3. What can I use instead of cream cheese?
You can substitute mascarpone or ricotta cheese for a slightly different texture and flavor.
4. Can I use leftover chicken?
Yes, shredded rotisserie or leftover cooked chicken works perfectly in this recipe.
5. How do I know when the chicken is done?
The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.
6. Can I use dairy-free alternatives?
Yes, use dairy-free cream cheese, coconut cream, and plant-based cheese substitutes.
7. What sides pair well with this dish?
Serve with rice, pasta, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
8. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs are a great option and add extra flavor.
9. How can I prevent the casserole from being watery?
Ensure the spinach is cooked and excess liquid is drained before assembling the casserole.
10. Can I add breadcrumbs on top?
Absolutely! Sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers mixed with melted butter for a crispy topping.
Conclusion
Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is a creamy, satisfying dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Its rich flavors and versatility make it a recipe you’ll turn to again and again. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is sure to please. Try it tonight and enjoy the comforting flavors of this easy and delicious dish!
Print
Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy chicken and spinach casserole is the ultimate comfort food. Packed with tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich cream cheese sauce, it’s a satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (or milk)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped parsley or fresh basil
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, heavy cream, garlic, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Add the cooked chicken and chopped spinach to the cream cheese mixture. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the cheese on top is golden brown.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley or basil if desired.
Notes
- If using frozen spinach, make sure to squeeze out as much water as possible to avoid a watery casserole.
- For added texture, top the casserole with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before baking.
- Serve this casserole with rice, pasta, or a side of garlic bread.