Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This creamy chicken and spinach casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that comes together easily for a satisfying weeknight meal. Packed with tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich cheese sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 2-3 cups cooked and shredded chicken (breasts or thighs work great)
• 4 cups fresh spinach or 1 package frozen spinach (thawed and drained)
• 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
• Sliced mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or cooked pasta (optional additions)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the ingredients. Cook and shred your chicken if it’s not pre-cooked. If using fresh spinach, sauté it lightly until wilted. For frozen spinach, thaw and drain well.
2. Step 2: Make the sauce. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, chopped onion, salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using. Stir until smooth and well blended.
3. Step 3: Assemble the casserole. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased casserole dish, layer the shredded chicken, sautéed spinach, and creamy sauce. Mix gently to combine evenly. Add any optional ingredients like sliced mushrooms or cooked pasta if desired.
4. Step 4: Add cheese and bake. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
5. Step 5: Serve and enjoy. Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. It pairs well with a fresh salad, crusty bread, or rice for a complete meal.

Tips & Variations

• Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor.
• Swap spinach for kale or Swiss chard for a different green with similar nutrition.
• Add cooked pasta or quinoa to make the casserole heartier.
• Include mushrooms or artichoke hearts for added texture and taste.
• For a lighter version, substitute half the cream cheese with Greek yogurt.

Storage

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions until hot. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving for best results.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Absolutely. Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen spinach well to avoid extra moisture in the casserole.

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 58 reviews

This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a rich and comforting dish perfect for an easy weeknight dinner. Combining tender shredded chicken with fresh spinach and a luscious cream cheese and sour cream sauce, it’s topped with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses for a bubbly, golden crust. Ideal for a hearty meal, this casserole is customizable with mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or pasta to suit your preferences.

• Author: Mia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Salt

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Vegetables

• 2–3 cups cooked and shredded chicken (breasts or thighs)
• 4 cups fresh spinach or 1 package frozen spinach (thawed and drained)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• Optional: sliced mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or cooked pasta

Dairy and Seasonings

• 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Cook and shred the chicken if it is not pre-cooked. If using fresh spinach, sauté it lightly in a pan until wilted. For frozen spinach, make sure it is thawed and drained thoroughly to remove excess water.
2. Make the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, finely chopped onion, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if using. Stir until the mixture becomes smooth and well blended.
3. Assemble the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a casserole dish lightly, then layer the shredded chicken, sautéed spinach, and creamy sauce in the dish. Gently mix the ingredients together to ensure even distribution.
4. Add Cheese and Bake: Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses on top of the casserole. Place the dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden brown and bubbly.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad, crusty bread, or a side of rice to make a complete and satisfying meal.

Notes

• You can customize this casserole by adding sliced mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or cooked pasta for additional texture and flavor.
• Make sure to thoroughly drain frozen spinach to avoid excess moisture that can make the casserole watery.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
• For a lower-fat version, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt and reduce the amount of cheese.

Keywords: Creamy chicken casserole, spinach casserole, baked chicken spinach dish, comfort food casserole, cheesy chicken casserole