If you’re craving a rich, comforting dinner that’s also simple to prepare, this Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is just what you need. Combining tender chicken breasts, fresh spinach, a velvety cream cheese mixture, and a gooey mozzarella topping, this dish delivers on both flavor and texture. It’s a perfect one-pan meal that’s hearty enough for weeknights yet special enough to serve to guests.

The beauty of this casserole lies in its balance of creaminess and freshness. The spinach adds vibrant color and nutrients, while the cream cheese and sour cream create a luscious base that keeps the chicken juicy and flavorful. A simple spice blend adds depth without overwhelming the dish, and the melted mozzarella on top makes every bite irresistibly cheesy.

Whether you’re feeding a family, meal-prepping for the week, or looking for a low-carb, high-protein dinner, this casserole has you covered. It’s easy to customize and even easier to love. Just layer, bake, and enjoy the cozy goodness with minimal cleanup. Trust us—this will be a regular on your dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy and Cheesy: The combo of cream cheese, sour cream, and mozzarella creates a deliciously rich texture.
One-Pan Simplicity: Everything comes together in one baking dish—easy prep and even easier cleanup.
Nutrient-Packed: Spinach adds fiber, iron, and antioxidants to a protein-rich meal.
Customizable: You can easily adapt the ingredients or seasonings to suit your tastes or dietary needs.
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters love the cheesy, comforting flavors in this satisfying casserole.

Ingredients

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Fresh spinach
Cream cheese
Sour cream
Garlic cloves
Shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt
Black pepper
Paprika
Onion powder
Olive oil

Variations

Low-Carb Option: Keep as-is for a naturally low-carb, keto-friendly meal.
Add Veggies: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or chopped zucchini for extra nutrition and texture.
Swap the Cheese: Try Monterey Jack, provolone, or sharp cheddar in place of mozzarella.
Use Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used for a juicier result.
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.

Step 2: Season and Sear Chicken

Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and onion powder. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly browned. (It doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this point.)

Step 3: Make Cream Cheese Mixture

In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Assemble Casserole

Layer the fresh spinach evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Place the seared chicken breasts on top. Spread the cream cheese mixture over the chicken.

Step 5: Add Cheese

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top of the casserole.

Step 6: Bake

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set slightly and makes for cleaner slices.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use room temperature cream cheese for easier mixing.
Don’t overcook the chicken during searing—it finishes cooking in the oven.
Press the spinach down slightly to help it cook evenly under the cheese and sauce.
Add a sprinkle of parmesan or fresh herbs for extra flavor.
Let the dish rest before serving to prevent the cheese sauce from separating.

How to Serve

Serve this casserole warm, straight from the oven. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, steamed veggies, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb meal. For something heartier, add a side of mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until hot throughout.

Freezing

Freeze the fully cooked casserole in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or microwave individual portions. Add a splash of milk or cream if the sauce thickens too much after refrigeration.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, just be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before layering it in the casserole.

2. Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole up to a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.

3. Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s low in carbs and high in fat and protein, making it great for keto diets.

4. What if I don’t have sour cream?

You can substitute with Greek yogurt or plain cream cheese for a similar texture.

5. Can I add pasta or rice?

Absolutely! Add cooked pasta or rice to the bottom layer for a heartier, carb-rich meal.

6. How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

7. Can I use shredded rotisserie chicken?

Yes, layer pre-cooked chicken and reduce baking time to about 15–20 minutes.

8. Can I make this in a smaller dish?

Yes, just reduce the number of chicken breasts and adjust the bake time slightly.

9. Will this dish get watery from the spinach?

Fresh spinach may release some moisture, but it will bake off. You can sauté it first if you prefer a drier casserole.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Use a larger baking dish and increase cooking time by 5–10 minutes, checking doneness as needed.

Conclusion

This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is the kind of dish that hits every mark—easy, flavorful, nutritious, and endlessly satisfying. With its creamy cheese sauce, tender chicken, and nutrient-packed spinach, it’s a complete meal in one pan that you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re cooking for family, meal-prepping, or just want a fuss-free dinner, this casserole brings big flavor with minimal effort. Try it once, and it’ll earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.