If you’re craving a dish that wraps comfort, creaminess, and wholesome greens into one cozy casserole, look no further than this Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese Recipe. It’s the perfect marriage of tender chicken breasts, vibrant spinach, and luscious cream cheese all baked to bubbling, golden perfection. This recipe is a fantastic way to elevate simple ingredients into an indulgent dinner everyone will ask for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward ingredients is all it takes to create a flavorful casserole that balances creamy richness with fresh, savory notes. Each component plays a key role in delivering comforting textures and rich taste.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, providing tender and juicy meat that absorbs seasonings beautifully.
- 4 cups fresh spinach: Adds a vibrant color and a nutrient boost, with just the right amount of earthiness.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: Creates a luscious, creamy layer that brings all the flavors together.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Enhances creaminess and adds a subtle tang to balance the richness.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses a fragrant punch that deepens the savory profile.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly to crown the casserole with a golden, gooey topping.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors in every ingredient.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and peppery aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Gives a subtle smoky warmth and vibrant color.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds depth and a mild sweetness to the seasoning blend.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For searing the chicken, locking in moisture and adding a touch of richness.
How to Make Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures a smooth cooking process and prevents the casserole from sticking while it bakes to a golden finish.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken
Take the chicken breasts and generously season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and onion powder. In a skillet heated with olive oil, sear the chicken for 2 to 3 minutes per side. This step locks in flavor and juices, creating a beautifully browned crust that adds texture to your casserole.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth and well blended, creating a rich and tangy spread that’s bursting with flavor. This blend is what makes the Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese Recipe truly indulgent.
Step 4: Assemble Layers in the Baking Dish
Spread fresh spinach evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Next, lay the seared chicken breasts on top of the spinach. Then, generously spread the creamy cheese mixture over each piece of chicken, ensuring every bite will be rich and flavorful.
Step 5: Add the Cheese Topping
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the entire casserole. This topping melts into a golden, bubbly layer that adds both a pleasing texture and a mild, cheesy balance to the savory filling underneath.
Step 6: 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 mozzarella topping is bubbling and turning a beautiful golden brown.
Step 7: Rest Before Serving
Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes. This short rest allows the flavors to settle and makes serving effortless without any cheesy mess.
How to Serve Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives add a pop of color and a mild freshness that complements the rich cream cheese layer beautifully. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add a playful kick if you enjoy a bit of heat.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with simple sides such as steamed or roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or even a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette. These sides provide balance so the creamy casserole can shine as the centerpiece.
Creative Ways to Present
For a striking presentation, serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a personal touch. Alternatively, layering the casserole with thinly sliced roasted potatoes beneath the spinach adds an extra layer of comfort and heartiness that’s perfect for family dinners.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It reheats wonderfully and remains moist and flavorful, making it a practical choice for meal planning.
Freezing
This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese Recipe freezes well. Simply assemble the casserole but don’t bake it, cover tightly with foil, and freeze. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to keep the cheese melty and the chicken juicy. You can also microwave portions for a quicker option, just cover loosely to prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and squeeze out as much water as possible from the frozen spinach to prevent the casserole from becoming watery.
Is there a substitute for cream cheese in this recipe?
You can swap cream cheese for ricotta or mascarpone for a lighter or subtly different creamy texture, but cream cheese provides the best balance of tang and richness for this casserole.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work great and add extra moisture and flavor to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are fully cooked.
How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no flour or wheat ingredients, making it a safe and delicious option for gluten-sensitive diets.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying them out?
Reheating in the oven covered with foil helps retain moisture, or adding a splash of broth before warming can keep the casserole juicy.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese Recipe. It’s a heartwarming dish that elevates simple everyday ingredients into something undeniably special. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this casserole promises to deliver creamy, cheesy goodness that everyone will rave about. Give it a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
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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
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A comforting and creamy chicken and spinach casserole featuring tender seared chicken breasts baked with a luscious cream cheese and sour cream mixture, fresh spinach, and melted mozzarella cheese for a delicious family-friendly meal.
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 Cheese Mixture
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent the casserole from sticking.
- Season and Sear Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, black pepper, paprika, and onion powder. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear each chicken breast for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown but not fully cooked.
- Mix Cream Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Assemble Casserole: Layer the fresh spinach evenly at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Place the seared chicken breasts on top of the spinach, then evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the chicken breasts.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the 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 (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle and prevent burns.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is fully cooked by checking internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
- You can substitute fresh spinach with frozen spinach, but thaw and drain excess moisture before using.
- For a lower-fat option, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese and mozzarella cheese.
- Serve with a side of rice, pasta, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
