Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor, you’ve come to the right place! This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is one of my absolute favorites. Not only does it combine tender chicken with vibrant spinach and a creamy cheese sauce, but it also has that golden, bubbly topping that makes everyone gather around the table. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or need something special for guests, this casserole is sure to impress.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility; it can be a quick weeknight meal or a showstopper for gatherings. Plus, it’s loaded with wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Let’s dive into why this dish will become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy prep: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, you’ll have this casserole assembled in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids love cheesy dishes, and this one packs in veggies without any fuss!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it the night before and bake it when you’re ready to eat.
• Deliciously creamy: The combination of cream cheese and mozzarella creates a rich texture that keeps everyone coming back for more.
• Perfect for leftovers: It reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or lunch the next day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese uses simple, wholesome items that come together beautifully. You might even have most of these on hand already! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts

For the Marinade

• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
• 1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Filling

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

Now that we have everything ready, let’s get cooking!

Variations

One of the best things about this casserole is how flexible it is. Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand!

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or chicken thighs instead of breasts for a different flavor and texture.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition and taste.
• Change up the cheese: Use cheddar or gouda if you want to experiment with different flavors.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute cream cheese with a plant-based alternative for a dairy-free version.

How to Make Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and gets that delightful golden top.

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 lightly so they’re all of similar thickness!

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add your chicken cutlets to this mixture and toss well to coat. Cover the bowl and let it chill in the fridge for 15-30 minutes. This step adds incredible flavor to your chicken.

Step 4: Sauté the Spinach

Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add in your fresh spinach and sauté until wilted—about 2-3 minutes will do! This step ensures that your spinach cooks down nicely before adding it to the casserole.

Step 5: Mix the Cream Cheese Filling

In a medium bowl, beat your softened cream cheese until smooth. Then fold in those lovely wilted spinach leaves along with half of your shredded mozzarella (save some for later!) and Parmesan if you’re using it. Mix until everything is combined beautifully.

Step 6: Prepare the Baking Dish

Take your marinated chicken out of the fridge; let any excess marinade drip off before arranging them in a single layer in a lightly greased baking dish.

Step 7: Assemble Your Casserole

Spread that creamy spinach mixture generously over each piece of chicken. Finally, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top!

Step 8: Bake It Up!

Pop your casserole into the oven and bake for about 20-30 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through (no pink inside!) and all that cheesy goodness is melted and lightly browned on top. Let it sit for about five minutes before serving—it’ll be hard not to dig right in!

Enjoy every bite of this delightful Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese! It’s bound to become one of those recipes you make again and again.

Pro Tips for Making Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

Cooking is all about enjoying the process and creating delicious moments, so here are some helpful tips to make your casserole turn out perfectly!

• Marinate for Flavor: Letting the chicken marinate for 15-30 minutes allows the flavors of the garlic and Italian seasoning to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
• Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts beautifully and has a vibrant flavor. If you can, avoid frozen spinach as it tends to release excess water and could make your casserole soggy.
• Sear the Chicken: While this step is optional, searing the chicken before baking adds an extra layer of flavor and helps lock in juices, keeping your chicken moist.
• Layer Wisely: Spreading the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chicken ensures that every bite is creamy and packed with flavor. Don’t skimp on this step!
• Let it Rest: Allowing your casserole to rest for about 5 minutes after baking helps the dish set up nicely, making it easier to serve without falling apart.

How to Serve Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

Presenting your chicken and spinach casserole can be just as delightful as enjoying it! Here are some creative ideas on how to serve this comforting dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some fresh parsley or basil on top just before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
• Lemon Zest: A light sprinkle of lemon zest adds a zesty brightness that complements the creaminess of the casserole.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread pairs perfectly with this casserole, providing a nice textural contrast while soaking up any delicious sauce left on your plate.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots, offers a colorful side that’s both healthy and flavorful.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a tangy vinaigrette makes for a refreshing side that balances out the richness of the casserole.
• Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds nutrients and color to your plate while being an easy-to-prepare side dish that everyone loves!

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese will not only taste fantastic but also look beautiful on your dinner table. Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, store it properly, and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week. Here’s how to keep your casserole fresh and tasty.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Keep it refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm up the whole casserole in the oven.

Freezing

• To freeze, allow the casserole to cool completely.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating if frozen.
• Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• For individual servings, microwave on high for 2-3 minutes or until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe.

Can I use frozen spinach for the Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach! Just thaw it, drain any excess water, and then mix it into your cream cheese mixture as usual.

What can I substitute for cream cheese in the Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese?

If you’re looking for a substitute, consider using Neufchâtel cheese or a plant-based cream cheese alternative for a dairy-free option.

How do I know when the Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is done?

The casserole is done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly with a light golden color on top.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese as much as I do! It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor, making it a wonderful addition to your dinner table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend meal, this dish is sure to impress. Happy cooking!