Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe
If you’re craving a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe is just what you need. Packed with tender shredded chicken, vibrant spinach, and a luscious creamy sauce that melts beautifully with mozzarella and Parmesan, it delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. It’s incredibly satisfying without being complicated, making it a perfect go-to for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings where everyone wants something hearty and delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but work together to create a rich and mouthwatering casserole. Each component plays a crucial role, from the savory shredded chicken to the fresh spinach adding a burst of color and nutrients, with the creamy cheeses providing that irresistible indulgence.
- 2-3 cups cooked and shredded chicken: This is your protein-packed base that keeps things hearty and filling.
- 4 cups fresh spinach (or 1 package frozen, thawed and drained): Adds vibrant color, texture, and a mild earthy flavor that balances the richness.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: Creates the silky, creamy sauce that makes this casserole truly comforting.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Brings tang and extra creaminess to enrich the sauce even further.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top, giving you gooey, cheesy goodness.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the mozzarella perfectly.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides aromatic depth and a slight bite that perks up the dish.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and texture once cooked into the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors harmoniously.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a gentle kick that you can adjust to your preference.
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional): A subtle hint of warmth that takes the creamy sauce to the next level.
- Optional additions (sliced mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or cooked pasta): Customize the casserole with your favorite extras for added texture and flavor variety.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by cooking and shredding your chicken if it’s not already prepared. For your greens, use fresh spinach sautéed gently until just wilted to keep its vibrant color and tender texture, or work with thawed and drained frozen spinach to cut prep time. This sets a flavorful base for your casserole.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with sour cream, minced garlic, chopped onion, salt, pepper, and that pinch of nutmeg if you like. Stir these together until you have a smooth, luscious sauce that’s bursting with flavor and ready to bring everything together.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a casserole dish. Layer in your shredded chicken and sautéed spinach, then gently mix in the creamy sauce. This step is where the magic happens—everything stays tender and gets evenly coated with that irresistible creaminess.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top. These cheeses melt into a golden, bubbly crust that’s impossible to resist. Bake the casserole uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until the top is beautifully browned and you can smell those comforting aromas filling your kitchen.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Let your casserole cool just a bit before serving so it sets perfectly. This is where all those layers of flavor come together in every bite, creating a truly satisfying meal you’ll want to make again and again.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Top this casserole with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil for a lively pop of color and fresh flavor. A little cracked black pepper or a drizzle of good olive oil can also make your serving look and taste designer-level good with minimal effort.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp, green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. For a heartier meal, serve alongside crusty bread or a fluffy rice pilaf that soaks up every bit of that creamy goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to mix things up, serve this dish in individual ramekins for a charming, personalized touch. Alternatively, layer it over cooked pasta or stuff it into warm pita bread pockets for a fun twist that transforms leftovers into an exciting new meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your casserole, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This preserves the creaminess and flavors nicely, making it easy to enjoy a quick, satisfying meal later on.
Freezing
This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe freezes well. Just cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap or use a freezer-safe container, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to keep that perfect texture.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, uncovered, until warmed through and bubbly. Alternatively, microwave portions on medium power in short intervals, stirring in between, to maintain that creamy consistency without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the frozen spinach fully and squeeze out as much liquid as possible before adding it to keep the casserole from becoming watery.
What type of chicken works best for this casserole?
Cooked, shredded chicken works best—whether from a roasted chicken, leftover rotisserie, or quickly poached breasts. The key is to have it moist and tender for maximum flavor and texture.
Is there a dairy-free or vegan substitute for the cheeses?
For a dairy-free version, you can try vegan cream cheese and sour cream alternatives, along with plant-based shredded cheeses. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture will be slightly different but still delicious!
Can I add pasta to make this a one-pot meal?
Yes! Cooked pasta can be mixed into the casserole before baking to create a heartier, pasta-based dish that’s equally comforting and filling.
Is this casserole suitable for making ahead before baking?
Definitely. Prepare the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes meal prep easy and lets the flavors meld beautifully.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely hope you give this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe a try soon—it’s one of those wonderfully cozy dishes that feels effortless but tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend lunch, this casserole will become a treasured favorite you’ll want to revisit again and again.
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Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a comforting and delicious dish combining tender shredded chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich creamy cheese sauce baked to perfection. It’s a perfect family meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 2–3 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 4 cups fresh spinach (or 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
Cheese Sauce
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Additions
- Sliced mushrooms
- Artichoke hearts
- Cooked pasta
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Cook and shred the chicken if it’s not pre-cooked. If using fresh spinach, sauté lightly until wilted. For frozen spinach, thaw and drain well to remove excess moisture.
- 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 smooth and well blended to form a creamy sauce.
- Assemble the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a casserole dish and layer the shredded chicken, sautéed spinach, and creamy sauce. Mix them gently to combine evenly throughout the casserole.
- Add Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden brown, and bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving to let the flavors meld together. Serve with a fresh salad, crusty bread, or cooked rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can substitute frozen spinach for fresh if pressed for time; just be sure to thaw and drain thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.
- Optional additions like sliced mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or cooked pasta can be mixed in for added flavor and texture.
- This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and baked when ready, making it a great make-ahead dish.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
