Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that’s both easy to make and delicious, then this Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is just what you need! This recipe has been a family favorite for years. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this dish will surely impress everyone at the table!

The best part? You can whip it up in under an hour and feel like a superstar chef without breaking a sweat. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this delightful casserole!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can have this dish ready to go in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike love the creamy texture and savory flavors of chicken and spinach.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of cream cheese, mozzarella, and Italian seasoning creates a dish that’s irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. They come together beautifully to create a creamy, satisfying meal. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Casserole

• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, optional

Variations

One of the great things about this casserole is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your tastes or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Here are some fun variation ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or chicken thighs instead of breasts for a different flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some mushrooms or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
• Change up the cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a unique twist.
• Make it spicy: Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the cream cheese mixture if you like a little heat!

How to Make Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly. While that’s heating up, lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Cut your chicken breasts in half horizontally so you get four cutlets. This helps them cook evenly and quickly. Give them a gentle pound with a rolling pin if needed. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken in this mixture until well coated. Cover it up and let it chill in the fridge for about 15-30 minutes to soak up those flavors.

Step 3: Sauté the Spinach

While your chicken marinates, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the fresh spinach and cook it down until wilted—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes. It’s important not to overcook it; we want it tender but still vibrant green.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Mixture

In another bowl, beat your softened cream cheese until nice and smooth. Then fold in those wilted spinach leaves along with 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella (and Parmesan if you’re using it). Mix everything until it’s combined well—this creamy goodness is going to be spread over your chicken later!

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

After marinating, take out your chicken cutlets from the fridge. If you’d like an extra layer of flavor (and who wouldn’t?), sear them in that same skillet for just 1-2 minutes per side until they get a lovely golden color before transferring them into your baking dish.

Step 6: Assemble Your Casserole

Now comes the fun part! Spread that luscious spinach and cream cheese mixture over each piece of chicken evenly. Top it all off by sprinkling on the remaining mozzarella—because who doesn’t love extra cheesiness?

Step 7: Bake Away!

Slide your baking dish into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 20-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through (reaching an internal temperature of 165°F) and the cheese is melted with a beautiful golden crust on top.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Once baked to perfection, let your casserole sit for about five minutes before serving. This gives everything a chance to set slightly so every bite is perfect! Pair it with some whole grain bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Enjoy every creamy bite of this Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese! It’s sure to become a beloved recipe in your home too!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

Cooking can be a delightful adventure, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your chicken and spinach casserole to mouthwatering perfection!

• Marinate for flavor: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes enhances the flavors, making each bite savory and satisfying.
• Sear the chicken: Giving your chicken a quick sear before baking adds a beautiful golden crust and locks in moisture, ensuring tender meat throughout.
• Customize the cheese: Feel free to mix different cheeses! Adding a blend of sharp cheddar or gouda can bring an extra layer of flavor to your casserole.
• Use fresh spinach: Fresh spinach wilts beautifully and retains its vibrant color better than frozen. This enhances both presentation and taste.
• Let it rest: Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking helps the flavors meld together and makes serving easier.

How to Serve Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

Presenting your chicken and spinach casserole is just as important as cooking it! Here are some ideas to make your dish visually appealing and even more delicious.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of this bright herb adds freshness and color, enhancing the overall presentation.
• Cracked black pepper: A light dusting over the top just before serving brings out the flavors without overwhelming them.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread complements the creamy casserole perfectly while adding a comforting touch.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers tossed in olive oil and roasted until caramelized provides vibrant color and healthy crunch.
• Quinoa Salad: This light, protein-packed side made with quinoa, cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
• Cauliflower Rice: Lightly seasoned cauliflower rice is a fantastic low-carb option that pairs well with casseroles while absorbing all those delicious flavors.

Now you’re ready to make your chicken and spinach casserole with cream cheese shine at the dinner table! Enjoy every bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is perfect for meal prep and busy weeknights. You can easily make it ahead of time, store leftovers, or even freeze portions for later.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the casserole cool completely before freezing.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. For best results, label the container with the date.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. Remove the foil in the last few minutes to allow the cheese to get bubbly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!

Can I use other vegetables in my Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or even zucchini. Just ensure they are cooked before mixing into the casserole.

How can I make Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese healthier?

You can use low-fat cream cheese or substitute some of the cheese with additional vegetables to reduce calories while maintaining flavor.

Is this Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is fantastic for meal prep as you can make it in advance, store leftovers easily, and even freeze portions for later.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese as much as I do! It’s a comforting dish that brings warmth to your dinner table and is perfect for sharing with family and friends. Be sure to try it out—your taste buds will thank you! Happy cooking!