Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This creamy chicken and spinach casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for family dinners. Combining tender shredded chicken with a rich, cheesy sauce and nutritious spinach, it’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

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 by cooking and shredding your chicken if it’s not pre-cooked. If using fresh spinach, sauté it lightly until wilted; if using frozen spinach, thaw and drain it well.
2. Step 2: 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 smooth and well-blended.
3. Step 3: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a casserole dish and layer the shredded chicken, sautéed spinach, and creamy sauce inside. Mix gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
4. Step 4: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top of the casserole. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbling.
5. Step 5: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it with a fresh salad, crusty bread, or rice for a complete, satisfying meal.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add sliced mushrooms or artichoke hearts before baking. You can also mix in cooked pasta to make it more filling.
• Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add a smoky flavor.
• If you prefer a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream.
• To avoid watery casserole, make sure to drain the spinach thoroughly.

Storage

Store any leftovers 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 also freezes well; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess water to avoid a soggy casserole.

Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 137 reviews

This creamy chicken and spinach casserole is a comforting, cheesy dish perfect for a family meal. It combines tender shredded chicken with sautéed spinach, garlic, and a rich cream cheese sauce, topped with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, then baked to golden perfection.

• Author: Rico
• 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 Spinach

• 2–3 cups cooked and shredded chicken (breasts or thighs work great)
• 4 cups fresh spinach or 1 package frozen spinach (thawed and drained)
• Sliced mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or cooked pasta (optional additions)

Creamy Sauce

• 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Cheese Topping

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

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 to remove excess moisture.
2. Make the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, finely chopped onion, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if using. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
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 all ingredients evenly.
4. Add Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh salad, crusty bread, or rice to complete your meal.

Notes

• You can customize the casserole by adding sliced mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or cooked pasta for extra texture and flavor.
• Make sure to drain frozen spinach thoroughly to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
• Using a combination of chicken breast and thighs gives a nice balance of lean and juicy meat.
• Allow the casserole to rest a few minutes after baking to help it set and make serving easier.

Keywords: Chicken casserole, spinach casserole, creamy chicken bake, baked chicken dish, comfort food, easy dinner recipe