Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese Recipe
If you’re in the mood for a cozy meal that tastes like pure comfort food but takes almost no effort to pull together, let me introduce you to Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese. This mouthwatering dish brings together juicy chicken, creamy spinach filling, and gooey cheese for a casserole that will make you want seconds (and maybe even thirds!). Whether you’re cooking for your family or looking for easy leftovers, it’s guaranteed to become a reliable favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese recipe has a purpose—some for flavor, some for texture, and together they create magic. Don’t worry, the list is short and sweet, but the result is absolutely luxurious!
- Chicken breasts: You’ll want large, boneless and skinless chicken breasts so you can create beautiful, tender cutlets.
- Olive oil: Adds flavor and keeps everything moist, while helping to infuse the chicken with aromatic seasoning.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic takes this dish from everyday to irresistible.
- Italian seasoning: A quick hit of herbs brings a Mediterranean flair and depth to the casserole.
- Salt and black pepper: Just enough to enhance every other flavor without overpowering the delicate creaminess.
- Fresh spinach: Not only does spinach add an earthy note, but all that gorgeous green makes each bite more vibrant.
- Cream cheese: The star for luscious texture, it melts into the filling for that signature creamy bite.
- Mozzarella cheese: Melty and stringy, mozzarella crowns the dish with the ultimate golden layer on top.
- Parmesan cheese (optional): For an extra punch of savory, nutty flavor, a sprinkle of Parmesan can’t be beat!
How to Make Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish
Set the scene for success by preheating your oven to 400°F. Give your 9×13 inch baking dish a light coat of butter or cooking spray. This simple step means the casserole lifts out beautifully, with every cheesy morsel intact.
Step 2: Slice and Pound the Chicken
Take your chicken breasts and halve them horizontally, giving you four cutlets. For ultra-tender, evenly cooked chicken, gently pound any thicker areas with a rolling pin until each piece is an even thickness. This ensures your casserole bakes uniformly.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
In a roomy bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Toss in the chicken to coat it and let the flavors mingle in the fridge for 15 to 30 minutes. It’s a tiny wait for maximum flavor!
Step 4: Wilt the Spinach
Meanwhile, heat the rest of the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the fresh spinach and stir until wilted—just a few minutes will do the trick. You’ll be amazed at how quickly the spinach cooks down! Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Filling
Beat the cream cheese in a mixing bowl until it’s silky smooth. Add in your wilted spinach, half the mozzarella, and Parmesan if using. Stir until it’s all evenly combined—this is the irresistibly creamy layer that sets Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese apart.
Step 6: Layer the Chicken
Remove your marinated chicken from the fridge and let any excess marinade drip off. For even more flavor, you can sear the chicken briefly—just 1–2 minutes per side—in the same skillet you used for spinach. Then, lay the chicken out in a single layer in your baking dish.
Step 7: Add the Cream Cheese Mixture and More Cheese
Spoon the spinach and cream cheese mixture across the chicken, smoothing it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top, making sure every inch gets some gooey goodness.
Step 8: Bake Until Perfect
Bake for 20–30 minutes. Look for that golden, bubbly cheese and make sure the chicken is cooked through. When it’s done, let it rest for five minutes. That little pause makes all the difference in creaminess!
How to Serve Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese
Garnishes
Finish with a flourish by sprinkling fresh chopped parsley or basil on top right before serving. A few red pepper flakes add a gentle kick, or try a dusting of extra Parmesan for even more savory charm.
Side Dishes
This casserole is hearty enough for center stage but sings when paired with fluffy rice, buttery mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad. Garlic bread on the side practically guarantees clean plates all around!
Creative Ways to Present
For dinner parties, serve Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese scooped into individual ramekins for a touch of elegance. Or, layer it over thick slices of rustic bread for a casual, satisfying lunch. It’s even tasty cold, cut into cubes for a snack platter!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese will keep beautifully in the fridge for up to three days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors intensify overnight, so tomorrow’s lunch might just outshine tonight’s dinner.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the fully baked (and cooled) casserole by wrapping it airtight. It keeps for up to two months. Individual portions can be frozen, too, so you always have a comforting meal ready for busy nights.
Reheating
To reheat, uncover and bake in a 350°F oven until hot and bubbly. For individual portions, a quick spin in the microwave does the trick—just add a splash of water and cover to keep it from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Thaw about 8 ounces of frozen spinach, squeeze out as much water as possible, and use it in place of the fresh. Just be sure to drain it well for the best texture in your Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese.
What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
No worries! Combine a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary to get a similar herbal punch. Adjust the quantities to your taste, and it’ll work perfectly in this casserole.
Can I make this dairy free?
Yes! Dairy-free cream cheese and mozzarella substitutes melt nicely and give the same creamy vibes, though the flavor will change slightly. Be sure to check their baking performance for best results.
Is it possible to prepare this casserole in advance?
You can assemble Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese the day before, cover tightly, and chill it in the fridge. When you’re ready, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed—no extra steps needed.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best indicator is a meat thermometer—look for an internal temperature of 165°F. The cheese should be bubbly and lightly browned on top, signaling deliciousness awaits.
Final Thoughts
Once you try Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese, you’ll see why it’s always on repeat in my kitchen. It’s simple, so satisfying, and packed with flavor in every bite. Give it a whirl—you might just find your next family favorite!
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Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Indulge in the creamy goodness of this Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese. Tender chicken breasts, flavorful spinach, and rich cheeses come together in a satisfying dish that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
- 1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Spinach Cream Cheese Mixture:
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1⁄2 cup Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat the oven to 400°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Cut chicken into cutlets and marinate in olive oil, garlic, seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Wilt Spinach: Cook spinach in olive oil until wilted; set aside.
- Mix Cream Cheese Mixture: Beat cream cheese, add spinach, mozzarella, and Parmesan; mix well.
- Prepare Chicken: Sear marinated chicken, place in baking dish.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread cream cheese mixture over chicken, top with mozzarella.
- Bake: Bake at 400°F for 20-30 minutes until chicken is cooked and cheese is melted.
- Serve: Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can add extra vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for more flavor.
- Feel free to customize the seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 610mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
Keywords: Chicken, Spinach, Casserole, Cream Cheese, Baked
