Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish packed with tender chicken, nutritious spinach, and a velvety cream sauce, all baked to perfection under a cheesy topping. Ideal for family dinners or meal prep, this casserole combines simplicity with rich flavor, making it a satisfying go-to recipe.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken breast (cooked and shredded)fresh baby spinachoniongarlicolive oilcream cheeseheavy creamchicken brothmozzarella cheeseparmesan cheeseitalian seasoningblack pepper and saltbutterbreadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a casserole dish.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté chopped onions until translucent.

Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Remove excess liquid.

Add cream cheese, heavy cream, and chicken broth to the skillet, stirring until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to taste.

Fold in the shredded chicken and mix until well combined.

Transfer the mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread evenly.

Top with a generous layer of mozzarella and parmesan cheese.

(Optional) Mix melted butter with breadcrumbs and sprinkle on top for added crunch.

Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 25 minutesResting time: 10 minutesTotal time: 50 minutes

Variations

Substitute turkey for chicken for a different protein option.

Use kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for variety.

Add cooked pasta or rice for a heartier casserole.

Incorporate mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies.

Top with crushed crackers or fried onions for texture.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.To reheat, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes or warm in a 350°F oven until heated through.Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, if you skip the breadcrumbs or use a low-carb alternative.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, it’s a great time-saver and adds extra flavor.

How do I prevent the casserole from becoming watery?

Drain spinach well and cook down the sauce until slightly thickened before baking.

Can I add pasta to this casserole?

Yes, pre-cooked pasta can be stirred into the mix before baking.

What cheese works best?

Mozzarella and parmesan are classic, but gouda, provolone, or cheddar also work well.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

You can, but the sauce will be less rich and thick.

Is this dish spicy?

No, but you can add red pepper flakes for a kick.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply use a larger baking dish and increase baking time slightly.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a warm, wholesome meal that’s easy to make and full of flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping for the week, this creamy, cheesy comfort food will quickly become a household favorite.