Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a comforting and creamy dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. The blend of tender, shredded chicken with creamy cheeses, spinach, and a hint of garlic creates a dish that’s both rich and satisfying. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests at your next gathering, this casserole is sure to become a household favorite.

With simple ingredients and minimal effort, this casserole is packed with flavor and nutrition. Fresh spinach or frozen spinach gives a vibrant green color and added health benefits, while the creamy sauce provides the perfect texture that everyone will love. Top it all off with melted mozzarella and Parmesan, and you have a dish that’s indulgent yet easy to make.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility—you can add mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or even cooked pasta for extra variety and flavor. Ready to serve in under an hour, this casserole is perfect for busy days when you still want a wholesome, delicious meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Comforting and Creamy

This casserole is the definition of comfort food, with a rich, creamy sauce that envelops the chicken and spinach, making each bite incredibly satisfying.

2. Packed with Flavor

The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheese creates a flavorful base, enhanced by the earthiness of spinach and a pinch of nutmeg.

3. Easy to Make

With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this dish can be assembled in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

4. Versatile

You can easily adapt this recipe by adding mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or even mixing in pasta for a heartier meal.

5. Great for Meal Prep

This casserole stores well, so you can make it ahead and enjoy it throughout the week. It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers.

Ingredients

Cooked and shredded chicken
Fresh spinach or frozen spinach (thawed and drained)
Cream cheese (softened)
Sour cream
Shredded mozzarella cheese
Grated Parmesan cheese
Garlic (minced)
Small onion (finely chopped)
Salt
Black pepper
Nutmeg (optional)
Optional additions: Sliced mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or cooked pasta

Variations

Mushroom Lovers: Add sliced mushrooms for an extra earthy flavor.
Artichoke Hearts: Mix in canned artichoke hearts for a Mediterranean twist.
Pasta Option: Toss in some cooked pasta to make the casserole more hearty and filling.
Cheese Swap: You can swap the mozzarella for cheddar or use a mix of your favorite cheeses.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Cook and shred your chicken if it’s not pre-cooked. If using fresh spinach, sauté it lightly in a pan until wilted. For frozen spinach, thaw and drain well to remove any excess moisture.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, finely chopped onion, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired. Stir until smooth and well-blended.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a casserole dish and layer the shredded chicken, sautéed spinach, and creamy sauce. Mix gently to combine everything evenly.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Bake

Top the casserole with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Pair with a fresh salad, crusty bread, or a side of rice for a complete meal.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Drain the Spinach Well: If using frozen spinach, be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to prevent excess moisture from making the casserole too watery.
Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quick and easy option, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
Add Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables, like sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini, for extra flavor and nutrition.
Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Rest Before Serving: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving, as this will help it set and be easier to slice.

How to Serve

This casserole is a meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. For a more filling meal, serve it over a bed of rice or alongside a comforting potato dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Freezing

You can freeze this casserole before baking it for up to 3 months. Just assemble it, cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and freeze. When you’re ready to cook it, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then bake as instructed.

Reheating

To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for quicker reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use cooked chicken breast?

Yes, cooked chicken breast works perfectly. Just shred it before adding it to the casserole.

2. Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, frozen spinach is a great option. Just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before using.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, this casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge for 1-2 days before baking. It can also be frozen for later.

4. How do I make this dish gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just be sure to check the labels on the cream cheese and sour cream to ensure they’re gluten-free.

5. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, you can swap sour cream for Greek yogurt for a slightly tangier flavor and extra protein.

6. Can I add pasta to this casserole?

Yes, cooked pasta is a great addition. Simply mix it in with the chicken and spinach before baking.

7. Can I use different cheeses?

Definitely! Feel free to use cheddar, gouda, or any other cheese you prefer.

8. How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a bit of heat.

9. Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh spinach works well. Just sauté it until wilted before using it in the casserole.

10. How do I prevent the casserole from being too watery?

Make sure to drain the spinach well, whether it’s frozen or fresh, to avoid excess moisture.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is the perfect dish for any occasion—whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal to impress guests. It’s creamy, flavorful, and packed with goodness. With the flexibility to add extra ingredients or customize the recipe to your tastes, it’s a versatile, comforting meal that’s sure to become a staple in your household.