Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that brings the family together, you’ve found it! This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is not only delicious but also easy to whip up. It’s the kind of recipe that transforms busy weeknights into something special, while still being perfect for family gatherings or potlucks. The creamy layer of spinach and cheese over tender chicken creates a flavor explosion that everyone will love.

What makes this casserole even more special is how simple it is. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you’ll have a warm, satisfying meal on the table in no time. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens without anyone noticing!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: You can get this Chicken and Spinach Casserole ready in under 45 minutes!
• Family-friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will enjoy this creamy delight packed with flavor.
• Make-ahead option: Assemble it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Comfort food classic: The melty cheese and tender chicken make this dish a cozy favorite for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients for this recipe is a breeze! You’ll find everything you need right in your pantry or local grocery store. These simple and wholesome ingredients come together beautifully.

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 Casserole

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

Variations

One of the best things about this casserole is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or cooked shredded rotisserie chicken for a change.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños for a kick!
• Gluten-free option: Serve it over a bed of quinoa instead of pasta for a gluten-free meal.

How to Make Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish

First things first! Preheat your oven to 400°F and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This step helps ensure that your casserole doesn’t stick and makes cleanup much easier!

Step 2: Cut and Prepare the Chicken

Now, let’s get our chicken ready! Cut each chicken breast in half horizontally so you have four cutlets. Use a rolling pin to pound them to an even thickness. This ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, whisk together one tablespoon of olive oil with minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cutlets to this marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover them and chill in the fridge for 15-30 minutes. This marinating step infuses so much flavor into the chicken!

Step 4: Cook the Spinach

While our chicken is marinating, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your fresh spinach and sauté until wilted—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Set aside once done; we want to keep that vibrant green color!

Step 5: Mix Together the Cream Cheese Filling

In another bowl, beat your softened cream cheese until smooth. Stir in the wilted spinach along with half of your mozzarella cheese (saving the other half for later) and Parmesan if you’re using it. Mixing these ingredients creates that creamy goodness that binds everything together!

Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

Once your chicken has marinated nicely, take it out of the fridge and let any excess marinade drip off. If you like, sear each piece of chicken in your skillet for just 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown—this adds extra flavor! Arrange them neatly in your prepared baking dish.

Step 7: Spread on That Delicious Filling

Now it’s time to spread that luscious spinach cream cheese mixture over the chicken evenly. Then sprinkle on the remaining mozzarella cheese—because let’s be honest, more cheese is always better!

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Finally, pop your casserole into the oven for about 20-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown on top. Allow it to rest for about five minutes before serving so all those flavors can settle nicely.

Enjoy every bite of this delightful Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese! It’s sure to become one of your go-to recipes!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

Making this casserole is a breeze, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate it to perfection!

• Marinate the chicken longer – Allowing the chicken to soak in the marinade for a longer period enhances the flavor and ensures that each bite is juicy and delicious.
• Use fresh spinach – Fresh spinach not only has a better taste but also retains its nutrients better than frozen. It will give your casserole a vibrant color and a fresh flavor.
• Sear the chicken for added depth – Quickly searing the chicken before baking adds a lovely caramelization that enhances the overall taste of your dish.
• Experiment with cheese – While mozzarella is fantastic, try mixing in different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a unique twist on flavors that can make your casserole even more delightful.
• Let it rest before serving – Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking helps it set, making it easier to serve while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

How to Serve Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

Presenting this delectable chicken and spinach casserole can turn your meal into a delightful experience. Here are some ideas on how to serve it!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs – Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or basil on top just before serving to add a burst of color and freshness.
• Lemon wedges – A squeeze of lemon over the dish just before eating can brighten up the flavors and add a zesty kick.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread – Perfect for sopping up any creamy goodness left on your plate, garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this rich casserole.
• Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious crunch and complements the creaminess of your dish without overpowering it.
• Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
• Mixed Green Salad – A simple salad of mixed greens topped with olive oil and balsamic vinegar provides a crisp side that balances out the flavors perfectly.

Enjoying this Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese alongside these garnishes and side dishes will surely impress your family or guests! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for busy nights, ensuring a wholesome dinner is always just a quick reheating away.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Cool the casserole completely before freezing.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• For refrigerated leftovers, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating as above or microwave individual portions until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

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

Yes, you can substitute fresh spinach with frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before mixing it into the cream cheese mixture.

How can I make this Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure that any additional ingredients, such as seasonings or cheeses, do not contain gluten. Always check labels if you’re concerned.

Can I add other vegetables to my Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative by adding vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or broccoli. Just sauté them along with the spinach for added flavor.

What should I serve with Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese?

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it over cooked quinoa or rice for a more filling meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese! It’s truly a comforting dish that brings warmth to your table while being easy enough for any weeknight dinner. Enjoy every creamy bite, and don’t hesitate to try variations that suit your taste. Happy cooking!