If you’re craving a warm, comforting dish that’s bursting with creamy goodness and vibrant flavors, look no further than this Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese Recipe. This delightful casserole combines tender chicken breasts with fresh spinach and a luscious cream cheese sauce, all topped with melted mozzarella for a golden finish. Each bite offers a perfect balance of savory richness and wholesome greens, making it an absolute weeknight favorite that feels special yet is incredibly simple to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish always brings a cozy, satisfying touch to the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering straightforward yet flavorful ingredients is the secret behind this Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese Recipe. Each item plays a vital role—fresh spinach adds vibrant color and a slight earthiness, cream cheese and sour cream provide that irresistibly creamy texture, and a fragrant blend of spices enhances the chicken to savory perfection.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The hearty protein base that makes this casserole filling and delicious.
- 4 cups fresh spinach: Adds a fresh, green touch and lovely nutritional benefits.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: Makes the sauce creamy and rich, binding everything together beautifully.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds tang and smoothness to the cream cheese blend.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the casserole with aromatic depth and warmth.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Ensures a golden, bubbly, cheesy topping.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild kick and balances the creaminess.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Brings subtle smokiness and color to the chicken.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Provides a gentle, sweet onion flavor without the texture.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For searing the chicken and locking in juiciness.
How to Make Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Next, season your chicken breasts generously with salt, black pepper, paprika, and onion powder. These spices work together to create a fragrant crust that will give your casserole extra depth. Then, heat olive oil in a skillet and sear the chicken for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. This quick searing seals in the juices and adds a beautiful golden color, which makes every bite juicy and flavorful.
Step 2: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Mixture
While the chicken is cooking, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Mix everything until it’s smooth and creamy—this mixture forms the luscious sauce that will coat the chicken and spinach. The garlic infuses the sauce with a subtle punch, complementing the mild tang of the cream cheese and sour cream perfectly.
Step 3: Layer the Spinach and Chicken
Spread fresh spinach evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This vibrant bed of greens will soften beautifully as it cooks, giving you that wonderful contrast in flavor and texture. Place the seared chicken breasts right on top of the spinach, ensuring they aren’t crowded so they bake evenly.
Step 4: Add the Cream Cheese Sauce and Cheese Topping
Evenly spoon the cream cheese mixture over each chicken breast, smothering them blanketed in creamy goodness. Then, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. The cheese will melt and bubble in the oven, creating a golden, irresistible crust that makes this Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese Recipe so special.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is fully cooked through and the cheese topping is bubbly and lightly browned. Let the dish rest for about 5 minutes afterward to let the flavors settle and the cheese firm up slightly. This step makes serving easier and ensures every bite is as delicious as the first.
How to Serve Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Add a finishing touch with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil to bring a pop of color and freshness. A light sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add a hint of heat if you like a bit of a kick. Lemon zest grated over the top can also brighten up the creamy flavors wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with simple, fresh sides to balance its richness. A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or a side of roasted vegetables can add texture and vibrancy. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside buttery mashed potatoes or fluffy rice to soak up all the creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, bake this casserole in individual ramekins for personalized portions that make every serving feel special. You can also spoon it over crusty bread or serve it topped on baked potatoes for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings or casual gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This casserole stays delicious for up to 3 days, with the flavors melding even more as it rests. Just give it a quick reheat and it’s ready to enjoy again.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this dish ahead of time for busy nights, you can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. Wrap it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, but the oven method will best preserve the creamy texture and melted cheese topping.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach, but be sure to thaw and squeeze out any excess water before layering it in the casserole. This prevents the dish from becoming watery and keeps the flavors concentrated.
Is it possible to make this casserole dairy-free?
To make this recipe dairy-free, you can swap the cream cheese, sour cream, and mozzarella for plant-based alternatives. Look for dairy-free cream cheese and shredded “cheese” made from nuts or soy. The texture will differ slightly but will still be delicious.
How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can check this with a meat thermometer or cut into the thickest part of a breast to ensure it’s no longer pink inside.
Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to add mushrooms, bell peppers, or even sun-dried tomatoes to the spinach layer. Just sauté firmer vegetables beforehand to ensure they cook through properly in the casserole.
What if I want a crispier topping?
For a crunchier finish, sprinkle some panko breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of melted butter on top of the mozzarella before baking. This extra step adds a delightful texture contrast that pairs perfectly with the creamy filling.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to comfort dishes because it’s just so cozy, creamy, and satisfying. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s the perfect recipe for when you want a homemade meal that nurtures both body and soul. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how effortlessly it becomes a beloved favorite in your kitchen too!
Print
Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting Chicken and Spinach Casserole combines tender seared chicken breasts with fresh spinach, creamy cream cheese, and melted mozzarella. Baked until bubbly and golden, it’s a delicious and satisfying meal perfect for a family dinner or cozy night in.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Spinach and Cream Cheese Mixture
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Pinch of salt
Topping
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prepare for assembling the casserole.
- Season and Sear Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, pepper, paprika, and onion powder. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until nicely browned but not fully cooked.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the fresh spinach evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Layer the seared chicken breasts on top, then evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the chicken.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top of the assembled casserole to create a cheesy crust when baked.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and make serving easier.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding some red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning to the cream cheese mixture.
- You can substitute spinach with kale or Swiss chard if preferred.
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken during searing to keep it moist after baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
