This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines tender shredded chicken with fresh spinach and a creamy, cheesy sauce. The result is a deliciously rich meal that’s perfect for a family dinner or a meal prep option. Whether you’re using fresh or frozen spinach, the ingredients come together effortlessly to create a mouthwatering casserole that’s both satisfying and easy to make.

Packed with flavor, this casserole is not only a great way to enjoy a nutrient-dense meal but also a fantastic way to use up any leftover chicken. The creamy texture of the sauce combined with the savory chicken and spinach makes for a dish that will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for your family, this dish is sure to impress and is a great way to get everyone to enjoy more greens!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you love comfort food that’s easy to make, then this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is for you. The creamy, cheesy sauce adds richness to the dish, while the spinach provides a pop of color and nutrition. It’s a great option for busy nights since it can be prepped ahead of time and baked when you’re ready to serve. Additionally, it’s versatile—you can easily modify it by adding other vegetables or pasta to suit your preferences.

The combination of chicken, spinach, and cheese is a crowd-pleaser, and it’s the kind of recipe that’s perfect for meal prepping. Plus, with only a few simple ingredients, you can whip this up without any fuss, making it a go-to recipe for quick weeknight meals. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a dinner party, this casserole is sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

Cooked and shredded chicken
Fresh spinach (or frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
Cream cheese
Sour cream
Shredded mozzarella cheese
Grated Parmesan cheese
Garlic
Small onion
Salt
Black pepper
Nutmeg (optional)
Optional additions: Sliced mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or cooked pasta

Variations

This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is easy to customize to your taste. Here are a few ideas for variations:

Add Vegetables: Consider adding sliced mushrooms or artichoke hearts for extra flavor and texture.
Pasta Version: For a more filling meal, mix in cooked pasta to create a comforting chicken and spinach pasta bake.
Different Cheeses: Experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or even cream cheese alternatives to suit your preferences.
Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by cooking and shredding the chicken if it’s not pre-cooked. If you’re using fresh spinach, sauté it in a pan until it’s wilted. For frozen spinach, make sure it’s fully thawed and drained to remove any excess water.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, garlic, chopped onion, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (if using). Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a casserole dish and layer the shredded chicken, sautéed spinach (or drained frozen spinach), and creamy sauce mixture in the dish. Mix everything together gently so that the chicken and spinach are evenly coated in the sauce.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses evenly on top of the casserole. Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. For a complete meal, serve with a fresh salad, crusty bread, or a side of rice.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Pre-cooked Chicken: If you have leftover chicken, this recipe is a great way to use it up. Simply shred the chicken and incorporate it into the casserole.
Avoid Excess Moisture: Be sure to thoroughly drain the spinach if using frozen, as excess water can make the casserole too soggy.
Customize with Add-ins: Feel free to add vegetables or cooked pasta for extra texture and flavor.
Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. This can save you time on busy nights.

How to Serve

This casserole can be served as a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with:

A fresh green salad
Roasted vegetables
Rice or quinoa for added carbs
Crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It makes a great leftover meal for lunch or dinner the next day!

Freezing

If you want to freeze the casserole for later, assemble the dish but don’t bake it. Cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed.

Reheating

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

FAQs

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and works perfectly in this casserole.

2. Can I make this recipe with frozen spinach?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain the spinach well before adding it to the casserole.

3. Is there a way to make this casserole dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free cream cheese and sour cream alternatives, and swap out the mozzarella and Parmesan for dairy-free cheese options.

4. How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for an extra kick.

5. Can I add pasta to this casserole?

Yes, cooked pasta can be added to the casserole to make it a more filling meal.

6. Can I use chicken breasts instead of shredded chicken?

Yes, you can use cooked and cubed or shredded chicken breasts instead of pre-shredded chicken.

7. How do I avoid the casserole becoming watery?

Ensure that the spinach is thoroughly drained, and avoid overcooking the chicken, as this can release excess moisture.

8. Can I make this ahead of time?

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

9. Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, mushrooms, artichokes, or even bell peppers would be great additions to this casserole.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and bake in a larger casserole dish. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly.

Conclusion

This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a versatile and satisfying dish that’s easy to make and perfect for family meals. With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and healthy spinach, it’s a balanced meal that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or prepping it for a make-ahead meal, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Try it today, and watch it quickly become a favorite in your household!