Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, you’ve come to the right place! This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is a family favorite in my home. It’s creamy, dreamy, and topped with golden, bubbly cheese that makes everything better. Perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings, this casserole brings everyone together around the table. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to add it to your regular rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious casserole in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the cheesy goodness of this dish!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of garlic, Italian seasoning, and cream cheese creates a dish that’s bursting with flavor.
• Healthy Ingredients: Fresh spinach and lean chicken make this a nutritious choice for dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delightful casserole. You probably have most of these on hand!

For the Chicken

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Spinach Mixture

• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, optional

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative and make it your own with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a different flavor and texture.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition and taste.
• Change the cheese: Swap mozzarella for cheddar or gouda to add a unique twist.
• Make it spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the spinach mixture for a little kick.

How to Make Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly from the moment you put it in. While that heats up, lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Cut your chicken breasts in half horizontally to create four cutlets. This helps them cook faster and more evenly. Don’t forget to pound them gently with a rolling pin for uniform thickness!

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss your cutlets in this flavorful marinade and let them chill in the fridge for at least 15 minutes. This step infuses your chicken with mouthwatering flavors.

Step 4: Cook the Spinach

Heat up the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add your fresh spinach and cook until wilted—about 2-3 minutes. Set it aside; we’ll mix it into our creamy filling shortly.

Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture

In another bowl, beat your softened cream cheese until smooth. Fold in that wilted spinach along with half of your mozzarella cheese (save the rest for later) and Parmesan if you’re using it. This mixture is going to be rich and creamy—just what we want!

Step 6: Sear Your Chicken (Optional)

Take your marinated chicken out of the fridge and let any excess marinade drip off. If you’re feeling fancy, quickly sear each piece in your skillet for about 1-2 minutes per side until they have a light golden color. It adds extra flavor but isn’t necessary if you’re short on time.

Step 7: Assemble Your Casserole

Arrange your seared (or unseared) chicken in a single layer at the bottom of your baking dish. Spread that creamy spinach mixture generously over each piece. Then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top—because who doesn’t love extra cheese?

Step 8: Bake It Up!

Pop your casserole into the preheated oven and bake for about 20-30 minutes until everything is cooked through and bubbly on top! Let it stand for about five minutes before serving. Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

This chicken and spinach casserole is sure to impress, and a few simple tips can help you make it even better!

• Prep ahead: Preparing the chicken and spinach mixture in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. You can marinate the chicken overnight for an even more flavorful dish.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality cream cheese will enhance the taste of your casserole. Fresh ingredients tend to provide a brighter flavor and better texture.
• Don’t skip the sear: If time permits, searing the chicken briefly before baking helps to lock in moisture and adds a lovely golden color, making your casserole even more appealing.
• Experiment with cheeses: Feel free to mix different types of cheese, such as gouda or cheddar, along with mozzarella. This adds depth of flavor and creaminess to your dish.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different! Taste your spinach mixture before spreading it on the chicken, adding more spices if desired. Customizing seasoning ensures everyone enjoys this delightful dish.

How to Serve Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

Serving this comforting casserole can be just as fun as making it! Here are some creative ways to present this delicious meal.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or basil sprinkled on top just before serving adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side gives everyone a chance to add a burst of citrusy brightness that complements the creamy flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: A warm loaf of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra creamy goodness from the casserole while adding a crunchy texture.
• Steamed broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a vibrant green contrast and balances out the richness of the casserole, making it a nutritious addition.
• Quinoa salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette offers a healthy side that complements the main dish perfectly.
• Cauliflower rice: For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice serves as an excellent base that soaks up flavors without overpowering the main attraction.

Now, gather your loved ones around the table, dig in, and enjoy every bite of your delightful Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Let’s dive into how to store it properly.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the casserole cool completely before wrapping.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil or use a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious casserole.

Can I substitute another cheese for cream cheese in Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese?

Absolutely! While cream cheese gives a rich and creamy texture, you can substitute it with ricotta or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a similar consistency.

How do I make Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese low-carb?

To keep this dish low-carb, simply focus on lean chicken breast and fresh spinach. Avoid adding breadcrumbs or pasta, which are common fillers in casseroles.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes! If you prefer using frozen spinach, just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the cream cheese mixture.

What should I serve with Chicken and Spinach Casserole?

This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. Feel free to add your favorite sides!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese as comforting and delightful as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate that brings everyone together. Enjoy making this recipe, savor every bite, and don’t hesitate to share it with loved ones. Happy cooking!