This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is a mouthwatering, creamy dish that combines the savory flavors of chicken with the richness of cream cheese and the freshness of spinach. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or any occasion when you’re looking to impress with minimal effort. The combination of tender chicken, creamy cheese, and healthy spinach creates a delicious and nutritious meal that the whole family will love.

With its creamy texture and balanced flavors, this casserole is ideal for those who enjoy a hearty, comfort-food dish without a lot of fuss. It’s a great way to enjoy a variety of ingredients, including lean chicken and fresh greens, all in one dish. This casserole also makes for excellent leftovers and is perfect for meal prepping ahead of time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s so much to love about this Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make with just a few simple ingredients. The creamy mixture of cream cheese and sour cream perfectly complements the savory chicken and fresh spinach, resulting in a dish that’s both comforting and flavorful. The addition of mozzarella cheese gives it that gooey, bubbly finish that makes casseroles so irresistible.

The dish is also versatile and can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you want to add extra spices or vegetables, it’s easy to adjust based on your preferences. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy nights when you don’t want to spend a lot of time in the kitchen.

Ingredients

Boneless skinless chicken breasts
Fresh spinach
Cream cheese (softened)
Sour cream
Garlic cloves
Shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt
Black pepper
Paprika
Onion powder
Olive oil

Variations

Add Veggies: You can add mushrooms, bell peppers, or artichoke hearts for extra flavor and texture. Simply sauté them with the garlic before adding them to the casserole.
Use Different Cheeses: If you don’t have mozzarella, feel free to use cheddar, gouda, or even Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a bit of hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture for some extra heat.
Low-Carb Option: Skip the sour cream and substitute with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free version to make it even lighter.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and onion powder. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth and well-blended.

Step 3: Layer the Ingredients

Layer the fresh spinach in the greased baking dish. Place the seared chicken breasts on top of the spinach. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chicken.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the entire casserole. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach works best in this casserole, but if you’re using frozen spinach, be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Since the chicken is seared first, it will continue cooking in the oven. Be careful not to overcook it during the searing step.
Make it Ahead: You can prepare this casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. This is great for meal prepping.
Let it Rest: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set and the flavors to meld.

How to Serve

This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is a complete meal in itself, but you can enhance it by serving it with:

A side of garlic bread or crusty baguette
A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette
Roasted potatoes or steamed rice for additional comfort

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This casserole reheats beautifully and makes for an easy lunch or dinner the next day.

Freezing

This casserole can be frozen before baking. Simply assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

Reheating

To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts. Just make sure they are cooked thoroughly.

2. Can I use frozen spinach in this recipe?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain the frozen spinach completely to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.

3. Is it necessary to sear the chicken first?

Searing the chicken gives it extra flavor and texture, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step and bake the chicken directly in the casserole.

4. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Cheddar, Gouda, or even a mix of your favorite cheeses will work great in this casserole.

5. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) to be safe to eat.

6. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it.

7. Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, feel free to add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even artichokes for added flavor and texture.

8. Can I make this casserole dairy-free?

You can use dairy-free cream cheese and sour cream alternatives to make it dairy-free, and choose a non-dairy cheese for the topping.

9. How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too watery?

Make sure to drain any excess moisture from the spinach, especially if you’re using frozen spinach.

10. Can I freeze this casserole before baking?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole and freeze it for later. Just be sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking.

Conclusion

This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is the perfect dish to add to your weeknight dinner rotation. It’s simple, creamy, and full of flavor, making it a family favorite that’s sure to please everyone. With the combination of tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich cream cheese sauce, it’s a hearty and satisfying meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Try this easy casserole recipe today, and enjoy the creamy goodness in every bite!