Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for family dinners. Combining tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and a rich cheesy sauce, it’s both hearty and satisfying. Ready in about 45 minutes, it’s an easy bake that everyone will love.

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. Cook and shred your chicken if not already cooked. If using fresh spinach, sauté it lightly until wilted. For frozen spinach, thaw completely and drain well.
2. Step 2: Make the sauce by combining the softened cream cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, chopped onion, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using) in a mixing bowl. Stir until smooth and well blended.
3. Step 3: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a casserole dish, then layer the shredded chicken, spinach, and creamy sauce inside. Gently mix to combine all ingredients evenly.
4. Step 4: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
5. Step 5: Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add sautéed mushrooms or artichoke hearts to the mixture before baking.
• Swap out mozzarella for a sharper cheese like cheddar for a different taste.
• If you prefer a pasta casserole, stir in cooked pasta before baking.
• Use fresh garlic and onions for best flavor, but powdered can work in a pinch.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. This casserole also freezes well—freeze in portions and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, both chicken breasts and thighs work well in this recipe. Thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful, making them a great choice.

Is it necessary to sauté fresh spinach before baking?

Sautéing fresh spinach removes excess moisture and helps prevent the casserole from becoming watery. If using frozen spinach, make sure it is well thawed and drained thoroughly.

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 86 reviews

• Author: Naomi
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This creamy chicken and spinach casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners. Tender shredded chicken and sautéed spinach are combined with a rich cream cheese and sour cream sauce, layered in a casserole dish, topped with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, then baked until golden and bubbly. This hearty casserole is versatile and can be customized with mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or pasta, making it a delicious and satisfying meal for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Spinach

• 2–3 cups cooked and shredded chicken (breasts or thighs)
• 4 cups fresh spinach or 1 package frozen spinach (thawed and drained)

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

Optional Add-ins

• Sliced mushrooms
• Artichoke hearts
• Cooked pasta

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Cook and shred your chicken if it’s not pre-cooked. If using fresh spinach, sauté it lightly in a pan until wilted. For frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture.
2. Make the Sauce: 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 thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended.
3. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the desired temperature by the time your casserole is assembled.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Grease a casserole dish and layer the shredded chicken and sautéed spinach inside. Pour the creamy sauce over the mixture and gently mix everything together to coat the ingredients evenly.
5. Add Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top of the casserole. Place the dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Allow the casserole to cool slightly after baking. Serve it warm, paired with a fresh salad, crusty bread, or rice for a complete, delicious meal.

Notes

• You can substitute cooked chicken thighs for breasts to add a richer flavor and moist texture.
• For a lower-fat option, use reduced-fat cream cheese and sour cream.
• Fresh spinach should be cooked until just wilted to avoid excess water in the casserole.
• If using frozen spinach, be sure to squeeze out all water to prevent a watery casserole.
• Adding sliced mushrooms or artichoke hearts gives extra texture and flavor; cooked pasta can turn it into a heartier dish.
• Letting the casserole rest before serving helps it set and makes serving easier.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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