A rich, creamy casserole is the ultimate comfort food, and this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole takes that to the next level with its tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and smooth, cheesy sauce. The blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and mozzarella creates a luscious, velvety texture that perfectly complements the savory chicken and spinach. Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or hosting friends for dinner, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

What makes this casserole even more appealing is how easy it is to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep work, you’ll have a hearty and satisfying meal ready in no time. The best part? You can customize the dish to suit your taste by adding in your favorite veggies or even some pasta for extra texture.

If you’re craving comfort food that is both creamy and full of flavor, this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is the perfect dish to satisfy your hunger and your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Creamy and Flavorful

The combination of cream cheese, sour cream, and mozzarella makes for a rich, velvety sauce that coats the chicken and spinach beautifully.

2. Quick and Easy to Make

This casserole is simple to prepare and only requires a few basic ingredients, making it a great go-to weeknight dinner.

3. Versatile and Customizable

You can easily add different vegetables like mushrooms, artichokes, or even pasta to make this casserole your own.

4. Kid-Friendly

With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, this dish is perfect for picky eaters, and it’s a great way to sneak in some spinach!

5. Hearty and Filling

With protein-packed chicken and a hearty serving of spinach, this casserole makes for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

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 mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Pinch of nutmeg
Optional: Sliced mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or cooked pasta for added variety

Variations

Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms for extra depth and flavor. They pair beautifully with the creamy sauce and spinach.
Pasta: Mix in some cooked pasta to turn this casserole into a more filling dish that will feed a larger crowd.
Gluten-Free: To make this dish gluten-free, ensure that any added ingredients, such as pasta, are gluten-free.
Add Herbs: Fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary can add an aromatic touch to this casserole. Simply sprinkle them in when mixing the ingredients together.
Extra Cheese: If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to add more mozzarella, cheddar, or even some crumbled feta for added flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Spinach

If you haven’t already, cook the chicken by baking, grilling, or pan-searing. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. If using fresh spinach, sauté it in a pan until wilted, then drain excess liquid. If using frozen spinach, ensure it’s fully thawed and well-drained.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, sauté the minced garlic and chopped onion in a bit of olive oil or butter until fragrant and soft, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Combine the Creamy Base

Add the cream cheese, sour cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan to the skillet with the garlic and onion. Stir until the cheeses melt and everything is well combined, forming a creamy sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg for added flavor.

Step 4: Add the Chicken and Spinach

Stir the shredded chicken and spinach into the creamy mixture, ensuring everything is well coated.

Step 5: Transfer to a Baking Dish

Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly and top with extra cheese if desired.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. If you prefer a crispier top, place the casserole under the broiler for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra flavor.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Ensure the Spinach is Drained Well: Whether using fresh or frozen spinach, be sure to drain as much excess liquid as possible. Too much moisture can make the casserole watery.
Shred the Chicken: For a more tender, flavorful result, shred the chicken rather than cutting it into cubes. This allows the chicken to absorb more of the creamy sauce.
Customize the Flavor: Feel free to add extra seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or a dash of cayenne pepper if you like a bit of heat.

How to Serve

This creamy chicken and spinach casserole is delicious on its own or paired with a simple side dish. Consider serving it with:

A side of roasted vegetables like carrots or broccoli.
A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette.
A 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 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.

Freezing

This casserole can be frozen before baking. To freeze, assemble the casserole in a baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

Reheating

To reheat, place the casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating from frozen, allow extra time for the casserole to thaw completely before baking.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works great! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the casserole.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking.

3. Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?

Yes! Sliced mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or even bell peppers would be great additions to this dish.

4. Can I use different cheese?

Yes, you can substitute the mozzarella or Parmesan with other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or a cheese blend.

5. Is this casserole gluten-free?

It can be! Just ensure that any added ingredients like pasta are gluten-free.

6. How long does this casserole last in the fridge?

Leftover casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

7. Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Simply cover it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

8. Can I use cooked chicken from a rotisserie chicken?

Yes, cooked rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for this recipe.

9. How do I reheat the casserole?

Reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until it’s warmed through.

10. Can I add pasta to this casserole?

Yes, adding cooked pasta to the casserole can make it even more filling. Just toss the cooked pasta into the mixture before transferring it to the baking dish.

Conclusion

This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. The creamy sauce, combined with the savory chicken and spinach, makes it a family-friendly meal that’s sure to satisfy. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or preparing it ahead for a crowd, this casserole is a delicious and versatile recipe that you’ll love making again and again.