Description
This Creamy Chicken Spinach Bake is a rich and comforting casserole combining tender shredded chicken, creamy cheeses, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach. Baked to bubbly perfection and topped with golden mozzarella, it’s perfect for a hearty family dinner or a satisfying meal prep option.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Mixture
- 1 ½ cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella (divided, 1 cup plus ½ cup)
- 1 cup shredded parmesan
- 1 ½ tsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil (chopped)
- 1 cup fresh spinach (roughly chopped)
For Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh basil
- Extra sun-dried tomatoes
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Mix Cream Cheese and Sour Cream: In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to blend the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth and creamy.
- Add Cheese and Seasonings: Add 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, shredded parmesan, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, onion powder, and salt into the cream cheese mixture. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
- Fold in Vegetables and Chicken: Gently fold in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes (with oil), roughly chopped spinach, and shredded cooked chicken until the mixture is evenly combined.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the mixture evenly into a medium baking dish or a large cast iron skillet and smooth the top with a spatula to create an even layer.
- Add Mozzarella Topping: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded mozzarella over the top in an even layer.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
- Broil for Coloring: After baking, switch the oven to broil and broil the casserole for 1 minute to brown the cheese until it takes on a golden color. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and garnish with extra sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil if desired. Serve warm for a creamy, satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can substitute cooked rotisserie chicken for a quick prep.
- If sun-dried tomatoes in oil are not available, rehydrate dry tomatoes in warm water before chopping.
- Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- This dish reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Use fresh garlic instead of minced for a stronger garlic flavor, adjusting quantity accordingly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Creamy Chicken Bake,Chicken Spinach Casserole,Cheesy Chicken Bake,Comfort Food,Easy Chicken Recipe
