Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese Recipe

Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is a comforting, creamy, and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a luscious cream cheese sauce. This casserole is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends and family. The creamy base, enriched with sour cream and garlic, complements the juicy chicken and sautéed spinach, while the melted mozzarella cheese on top adds a delicious, gooey finish. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, this dish is a great way to enjoy a healthy dose of greens while indulging in creamy goodness. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing a simple meal, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Creamy and Delicious

The combination of cream cheese, sour cream, and mozzarella creates a rich, velvety sauce that coats the chicken and spinach, making every bite irresistible.

2. Packed with Flavor

Seasoned chicken, garlic, and a blend of spices infuse the casserole with layers of savory flavor, while fresh spinach adds a mild, earthy contrast.

3. Simple to Make

This casserole comes together quickly with just a few simple steps. Searing the chicken, mixing the cream cheese filling, and layering the ingredients make it a straightforward and fuss-free meal.

4. Great for Meal Prep

This dish is perfect for preparing ahead of time. You can make it in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake it later for a hassle-free dinner.

5. Family-Friendly

With its delicious combination of chicken and creamy cheese, this casserole is sure to please even the pickiest eaters, making it an ideal dish for families.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 cups fresh spinach
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Variations

• Add More Veggies: You can add other vegetables to the casserole such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra texture and flavor.
• Cheese Variations: Swap out mozzarella for other cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan to change the flavor profile.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to the cream cheese mixture for a spicy kick.
• Low-Carb Version: For a lower-carb version, skip the sour cream or use a lighter, low-fat version. You can also replace the regular cream cheese with a low-fat alternative.
• Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free option, use dairy-free cream cheese, sour cream, and mozzarella cheese alternatives.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and onion powder. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this point, as it will finish cooking in the oven.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth and well combined. This creamy mixture will form the base of your casserole.

Step 4: Layer the Casserole

Layer the fresh spinach evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Place the seared chicken breasts on top of the spinach. Spread the cream cheese mixture generously over the chicken, covering each breast evenly.

Step 5: Add the Mozzarella

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This will melt and become bubbly during the baking process.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through (an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C) and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 7: Let It Cool

Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to set and makes it easier to cut and serve.

Step 8: Serve

Serve the chicken and spinach casserole with a side of rice, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Searing the Chicken: Searing the chicken before baking adds extra flavor and helps lock in moisture, but make sure not to overcook the chicken during this step, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
• Using Frozen Spinach: If using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and squeeze out all excess water before adding it to the casserole. Fresh spinach will wilt down as it bakes, but frozen spinach can release moisture that could make the casserole soggy.
• Make It Ahead: You can prepare this casserole ahead of time by assembling it in the baking dish, covering it with foil, and refrigerating it for up to a day. When ready to bake, just increase the cooking time by 10-15 minutes.
• Check for Doneness: Always check that the chicken has reached 165°F (74°C) internally before serving to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.
• Adjust the Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste. You can add more garlic, use different herbs, or experiment with other spices like thyme, oregano, or basil.

How to Serve

• Side Dishes: Serve this casserole with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple green salad. It also pairs well with rice or quinoa for a hearty meal.
• Leftovers: This casserole makes great leftovers, so save any extras for a quick and easy lunch or dinner the next day.
• Top with Fresh Herbs: Garnish the casserole with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and added freshness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. The flavors continue to develop as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day!

Freezing

You can freeze this casserole before or after baking. If freezing before baking, cover the dish tightly with foil and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then bake as usual. If freezing after baking, let the casserole cool completely before wrapping it tightly and storing it in the freezer.

Reheating

To reheat, simply place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating individual portions, the microwave works just fine as well.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work great in this casserole. They are juicier and more flavorful, but make sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure they reach 165°F internally.

2. Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess water before adding it to the casserole.

3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just allow for additional baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

4. Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! You can add other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or even artichoke hearts for extra flavor and texture.

5. Can I substitute the sour cream?

Yes, you can substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist or use a low-fat sour cream alternative for a lighter version.

6. How do I prevent the cheese from burning?

To prevent the cheese from burning, cover the casserole loosely with foil during the first 15 minutes of baking, then remove the foil for the last 10-15 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and become bubbly.

7. Can I use light cream cheese?

Yes, you can use light cream cheese, but it might slightly alter the texture and creaminess of the casserole.

8. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should read 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked.

9. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Just ensure they’re completely cooled before placing them in an airtight container or wrapping them tightly for storage.

10. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or even a blend of cheeses for a unique flavor profile.

Conclusion

Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is a creamy, comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a velvety cheese sauce for a satisfying meal. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or prepping ahead for a busy week, this casserole is sure to be a hit! Enjoy every creamy bite!

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