If you are craving a comforting, rich, and wholesome dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining tender cooked chicken with fresh spinach, tangy sour cream, and melted cheeses, every bite is a perfect harmony of creamy textures and vibrant flavors. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dish that brings together simple ingredients in a way that makes you want seconds, and maybe even thirds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the first step to nailing this casserole. Each component plays a key role — the chicken provides hearty protein, the spinach adds freshness and color, and the creamy cheeses give it that irresistible richness that makes this recipe so special.
- Cooked chicken (3 cups): Shredded or chopped, this is your casserole’s flavorful protein base.
- Fresh spinach (4 cups): Chopped for easy mixing and packed with nutrients, it brightens the dish.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Adds a tangy creaminess that keeps the casserole moist and luscious.
- Cream cheese (1 cup): Softened for smooth blending, this adds richness and depth of flavor.
- Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): Enhances the creamy consistency and adds subtle acidity.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Melts beautifully for that gooey, cheesy stretch everyone loves.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Half mixed in and half on top for a savory, golden crust.
- Onion (1 small): Finely chopped to release its sweet, mellow flavor while sautéing.
- Garlic cloves (2): Minced for a fragrant punch that complements the creamy base.
- Dried Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A flavorful herb blend that adds a classic Mediterranean touch.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, these simple seasonings elevate every ingredient.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Used for sautéing and adding a mild fruity aroma.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Sauté Vegetables
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready to bake perfectly. Then, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in finely chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring them for about 3 to 4 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. This step builds a flavorful foundation for your casserole.
Step 2: Wilt the Spinach
Add the chopped fresh spinach to the skillet and cook it for just 2 to 3 minutes until it wilts but still retains its vibrant green color. Remove the skillet from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly so it won’t curdle your creamy sauce.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix these together until you get a smooth, velvety sauce that will bind all the ingredients harmoniously.
Step 4: Combine Chicken, Spinach, and Cheese
Fold in the shredded chicken, your cooled sautéed spinach mixture, shredded mozzarella, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix everything gently but thoroughly to ensure every bite is loaded with creamy, cheesy goodness.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish and smooth out the surface evenly. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the top to create that delicious golden-edge crust. Bake the casserole uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until it’s bubbly and beautifully golden on top.
Step 6: Let it Rest Before Serving
Once baked, give your casserole a 5-minute rest to set up slightly. This moment makes scooping out generous portions easier and lets the flavors meld beautifully.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a pinch of red pepper flakes to your casserole just before serving. These little touches bring a fresh, bright flavor that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy richness.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a meal on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or a side of roasted vegetables. For something heartier, try garlic mashed potatoes or warm crusty bread to soak up any extra creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve individual portions in small ramekins baked to golden perfection. Or spoon it over cooked rice or pasta to stretch the meal and give it a fun twist that kids and adults alike will enjoy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover casserole in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for quick lunches or dinners during a busy week.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole either before or after baking. If freezing unbaked, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. For frozen leftovers, cover well and reheat directly from frozen, adding extra baking time as needed.
Reheating
Reheat refrigerated portions in the microwave or an oven-safe dish at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly again. This casserole shines even as leftovers, tasting just as comforting and creamy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh for this casserole?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out all excess water from the frozen spinach before mixing it in. This keeps the casserole from getting watery.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can try substituting dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like vegan cream cheese and sour cream, but keep in mind the texture and flavor will be different. Experimenting can lead to tasty results!
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Yes! Feel free to include mushrooms, bell peppers, or even zucchini for added flavor and texture. Just sauté them along with the onions and garlic before adding spinach.
How long does this casserole last in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, it will stay fresh and delicious for about 3 days, which is perfect for meal prepping or leftovers.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise in the recipe?
You can substitute mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt or an equal amount of extra sour cream to keep the dish creamy while adding a slight tang.
Final Thoughts
You really cannot go wrong with this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe. It’s a perfect blend of simple ingredients that come together to create a dish that feels luxurious but is incredibly easy to make. Whether for a family dinner, a friendly gathering, or just a cozy night in, this casserole will quickly become one of your go-to recipes. Give it a try and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!
Print
Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a comforting and flavorful bake featuring tender cooked chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich blend of sour cream, cream cheese, and mayonnaise. With layers of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, this casserole is perfectly baked to a golden bubbly finish, ideal for a satisfying family dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the casserole.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook Spinach: Add the chopped fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, approximately 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly to avoid curdling the dairy in the next step.
- Mix Creamy Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Blend until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
- Combine Ingredients: Fold the sautéed spinach mixture, cooked chicken, shredded mozzarella cheese, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese into the creamy base, mixing gently until evenly distributed.
- Prepare Casserole Dish: Transfer the combined mixture into a greased baking dish, smoothing the top evenly. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese evenly over the surface to add a crispy, cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld and the dish to set for easier serving.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh spinach with frozen spinach; just ensure you thaw and drain excess water before using.
- For a lower-fat version, use reduced-fat cream cheese, sour cream, and mozzarella cheese.
- Feel free to add mushrooms or bell peppers to the sauté step for extra vegetables.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- To make ahead, assemble the casserole but hold off on baking; keep covered in the fridge and bake within 24 hours.
