Description
This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a comforting and delicious baked dish featuring tender shredded chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich cream cheese sauce topped with mozzarella and Parmesan. Perfect for an easy family dinner, it combines creamy textures with savory flavors to satisfy your cravings in just 45 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Vegetables
- 2-3 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 4 cups fresh spinach (or 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
Cheese and Dairy
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Optional Additions
- Sliced mushrooms
- Artichoke hearts
- Cooked pasta
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Cook and shred the chicken if it’s not pre-cooked. If using fresh spinach, sauté lightly until wilted. For frozen spinach, thaw and drain well to remove excess moisture.
- Make the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, chopped onion, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking the casserole.
- Assemble the Casserole: Grease a casserole dish lightly. Layer the shredded chicken and sautéed spinach into the dish, then pour the creamy sauce over the top. Mix gently to combine everything evenly.
- Add Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the assembled casserole.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad, crusty bread, or rice for a complete, comforting meal.
Notes
- If using frozen spinach, ensure it is thoroughly drained to avoid a watery casserole.
- Optional additions like sliced mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or cooked pasta can be mixed in to enhance flavor and texture.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
- For a lower-calorie version, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese and sour cream.
