If you are craving a comforting, flavorful meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together tender shredded chicken, fresh vibrant spinach, and a luscious blend of cream cheese and cheeses that melt into a savory, rich sauce. Every bite delivers a delightful mix of creamy texture and just the right amount of garlic and onion flavors, making it an irresistible dish perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe keeps things simple by using a handful of essential ingredients that come together beautifully. Each contributes something special, whether it’s the creaminess from the cheeses, the freshness and color from the spinach, or the savory backbone from the chicken and aromatics.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Rotisserie chicken is a quick and tasty shortcut for a tender protein base.
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped: Adds a fresh, slightly earthy flavor and vibrant green color.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Gives the casserole its signature rich and creamy texture.
- 1 cup sour cream: Enhances creaminess with a tangy touch that balances the dish.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly to create a smooth, gooey experience.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty finish that complements the other cheeses.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Provides a subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the casserole with that irresistible aromatic warmth.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the onion and garlic to perfection.
- ½ tsp onion powder: Boosts the onion flavor for extra savoriness.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Deepens garlic aroma throughout the dish.
- ¼ tsp black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and flavor contrast.
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional): A fresh herb garnish that brightens the final presentation.
- 1 cup cooked rice (optional): Adds a delightful texture and stretch to the casserole for heartier meals.
- 1 tbsp melted butter: For greasing the casserole dish and helping with browning.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Oven & Prepare Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×9-inch casserole dish with melted butter. This ensures the casserole won’t stick as it bakes and encourages a golden, appetizing crust.
Step 2: Sauté Onion & Garlic
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until it releases its fragrant aroma. This step builds a flavorful foundation for your casserole’s filling.
Step 3: Cook Spinach
Add the chopped fresh spinach to the skillet and sauté until it just wilts, about 3 to 4 minutes. This wilting helps the spinach marry perfectly with the creamy sauce later, while retaining enough structure to provide that lovely green color and fresh taste.
Step 4: Mix Creamy Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir or whisk these together until smooth and creamy with no lumps. This rich blend is the heart of the casserole’s flavor and texture.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Fold the shredded cooked chicken, sautéed spinach mixture, and cooked rice (if using) into the creamy sauce. Stir everything together until well combined and evenly coated. This ensures each bite carries the perfect balance of all the wonderful flavors and textures.
Step 6: Bake Casserole
Transfer the mixture into your prepared casserole dish and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is bubbling and beautifully golden brown. This baking step melds all the ingredients into a luscious, comforting dish.
Step 7: Garnish & Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley if you like a pop of color and fresh herb flavor. Let the casserole settle for a few minutes before serving — this resting time helps it set slightly and makes it easier to scoop out perfect portions.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a simple way to brighten up the casserole both visually and flavor-wise. You can also add a sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan or a few red pepper flakes if you want a bit more kick. These small touches make the dish feel extra special.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or a simple garlic bread. The richness of the casserole balances nicely with lighter or crunchier sides, creating a harmonious meal that satisfies completely.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving this casserole in individual ramekins or small cast-iron skillets for personalized portions. You can also top each serving with a dollop of sour cream or a spoonful of salsa for an exciting flavor contrast. Presentation like this makes your Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe feel like a special occasion dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover casserole in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a perfect option for quick meals later in the week.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully before baking. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, bake it straight from the freezer, adding extra baking time until hot and bubbly.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm your portion in the microwave or oven until heated through. Covering loosely with foil helps keep it moist and prevents over-browning while reheating in the oven.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and squeeze out as much moisture as possible before using it to avoid a watery casserole.
Is this recipe good for meal prepping?
Yes, it’s ideal for meal prep because it stores and reheats well while maintaining great flavor and texture.
Can I substitute the cream cheese with something lighter?
You could try using a mixture of Greek yogurt and cream cheese or all sour cream, but the texture will be less creamy and rich.
What if I don’t eat rice, can I leave it out?
Definitely! The rice is optional and only adds a bit of texture. The casserole is delicious even without it.
How do I make this casserole spicier?
Add red pepper flakes to your spice mix or top with sliced jalapeños before baking for a nice spicy kick.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen because it’s not only incredibly flavorful but also wonderfully comforting and easy to make. Whether you want a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal to share, this casserole is sure to bring warmth and smiles around the table. Give it a try and enjoy all the creamy, cheesy goodness!
Print
Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is a creamy and comforting baked dish featuring shredded chicken, fresh spinach, and a blend of creamy cheeses. It’s perfect for a hearty family meal, combining the rich flavors of cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan with aromatic sautéed onions and garlic, all baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy and Cheese
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings and Oils
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1 tbsp melted butter (for greasing)
Optional
- 1 cup cooked rice (optional, for added texture)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven & Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9-inch casserole dish thoroughly with melted butter to prevent sticking and add a subtle buttery flavor.
- Sauté Onion & Garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook Spinach: Stir the chopped spinach into the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes until the spinach is wilted and tender. Remove skillet from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
- Mix Creamy Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix until the sauce is smooth and well blended.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the shredded cooked chicken, sautéed spinach mixture, and optional cooked rice to the creamy sauce. Stir everything thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of ingredients.
- Bake Casserole: Transfer the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Garnish & Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top if desired. Let the casserole sit for a few minutes to set before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute rotisserie chicken with any leftover cooked chicken or turkey.
- For a gluten-free version, ensure all seasonings and cheeses are certified gluten-free.
- If you want a lower-fat option, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese and sour cream.
- The cooked rice is optional but adds a nice texture and helps extend the casserole.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and also freeze well for longer storage.
- Feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
