Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners. Packed with tender chicken, fresh spinach, and rich cheeses, it’s both hearty and easy to prepare. You’ll love how the creamy sauce brings everything together in every bite.

Ingredients

• 2–3 cups cooked and shredded chicken
• 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)
• Optional additions: sliced mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or cooked pasta

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook and shred the chicken if it is not already prepared. If using fresh spinach, sauté it lightly in a pan until wilted. For frozen spinach, make sure it is fully thawed and drained of excess water.
2. Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, chopped onion, salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended.
3. Step 3: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a casserole dish to prevent sticking. In the dish, layer the shredded chicken, sautéed spinach, and the creamy sauce. Gently mix these layers together to combine the ingredients evenly.
4. Step 4: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create a golden, bubbly crust once baked.
5. Step 5: Bake the casserole uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, golden, and bubbly. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Add sliced mushrooms or artichoke hearts for extra texture and flavor. You can also mix in cooked pasta to turn this casserole into a more filling meal.

Storage

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. If refrigerating the casserole before baking, add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess water to prevent the casserole from becoming too watery.

Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it before baking. When ready to cook, simply add a bit more time to the baking process if the casserole is cold from the fridge.

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 63 reviews

This creamy chicken and spinach casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish combining tender shredded chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich, cheesy sauce. Perfect for a nourishing family meal, it features a blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses baked until bubbly and golden. Optional additions like mushrooms or artichoke hearts add an extra dimension of taste and texture.

• Author: Isla
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Spinach

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

Sauce and Seasoning

• 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 Additions

• Sliced mushrooms
• Artichoke hearts
• Cooked pasta

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Cook and shred the chicken if it’s not already cooked. If using fresh spinach, sauté it lightly in a pan over medium heat just until wilted. For frozen spinach, make sure to thaw fully and drain excess water well to avoid a watery casserole.
2. Make the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, finely chopped onion, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if using. Stir vigorously until the mixture is smooth and well blended, creating a creamy sauce base.
3. Assemble the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a casserole dish. Layer the shredded chicken evenly, then add the sautéed or thawed spinach. Pour the creamy sauce over the top and mix gently to combine all ingredients together evenly.
4. Add Cheese and Bake: Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan on top of the casserole. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese topping is melted, golden brown, and bubbly.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly for 5-10 minutes before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, crusty bread, or cooked rice to complete the meal.

Notes

• For added texture and flavor, try incorporating sliced mushrooms or artichoke hearts into the casserole before baking.
• This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking. If baking from cold, add 5-10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it is heated through completely.
• Using fresh spinach gives the best texture, but frozen spinach can be a convenient alternative if properly thawed and drained.

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