Description
Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole
This casserole is pure comfort food! Creamy, cheesy, and packed with spinach, it’s a satisfying dish that you can prepare ahead of time and bake for a perfect weeknight dinner. With the golden bubbly cheese on top, it’s a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will love. Plus, you can make it your own by adding your favorite veggies or cheese.
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tbsp olive oil, divided
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp Italian seasoning
1⁄4 tsp salt
1⁄2 tsp black pepper
2 cups fresh spinach
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
1⁄2 cup Parmesan cheese (optional)
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F, grease a baking dish.
2. Marinate chicken in oil, garlic, and seasoning.
3. Wilt spinach, mix with cream cheese and cheeses.
4. Bake with the spinach mixture on top for 20-30 mins.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Kcal: 528
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep & Marinate: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. In a bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of olive oil, the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and toss to coat thoroughly. Let them marinate while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Cook the Spinach: Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the fresh spinach and cook, stirring frequently, for 2-3 minutes until just wilted. Transfer the spinach to a colander and press with a spoon to remove excess liquid.
3. Make the Creamy Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup of the shredded mozzarella, and the Parmesan cheese (if using). Add the wilted spinach and mix until fully combined and creamy.
4. Assemble & Bake: Place the marinated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Spread the creamy spinach and cheese mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese over everything.
5. Final Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F) and the cheese on top is golden and bubbly. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and creamy casserole pairs perfectly with lighter sides to balance the meal. Serve it over a bed of steamed rice, buttered egg noodles, or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. For a low-carb option, try it with cauliflower rice or a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette. A crusty baguette is also excellent for scooping up every last bit of the cheesy sauce.
How-to Summary
To make Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole: Marinate chicken in garlic and herbs. Wilt spinach and mix it with cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Spread this mixture over the chicken in a baking dish, top with more cheese, and bake at 400°F for 25-30 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh? Yes, you can. Use one 10-ounce package of frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed very dry to remove all excess moisture.
How can I make this dish ahead of time? Assemble the casserole completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to eat, bake as directed, adding 5-10 extra minutes since it will be cold from the fridge.
What can I use instead of cream cheese? Full-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt can be used, though the texture will be slightly less rich and more tangy.
Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely. Sautéed mushrooms, diced sun-dried tomatoes, or artichoke hearts would be excellent additions. Just ensure any added veggies are cooked and not too watery.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or covered in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Removing Spinach Moisture: Failing to thoroughly drain wilted or thawed spinach will make the filling watery.
- Using Cold Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free mixture.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F internally to prevent dry, tough chicken.
- Skipping the Rest Time: Letting the casserole sit for 5 minutes after baking allows the sauce to set slightly for cleaner serving.
Conclusion
This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is the ultimate reliable dinner for busy nights or when you need a dose of comfort. Its simple preparation, make-ahead flexibility, and crowd-pleasing cheesy flavor make it a recipe you’ll return to again and again. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve a perfectly creamy, golden-brown result every single time. Enjoy your delicious, home-cooked meal!