If you’re craving a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite, then this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with tender shredded chicken, vibrant spinach, and a luscious cream cheese-based sauce, this casserole is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. It’s one of those dishes that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner but fancy enough to impress guests when the occasion calls for it. You’ll love how the melted mozzarella and Parmesan create a golden, bubbly crust on top while the spinach adds a burst of color and freshness to balance the richness. This recipe blends simple ingredients into something utterly delicious and satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s fantastic about this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe is how uncomplicated and accessible the ingredients are. Each one plays an essential role — from the tender chicken providing hearty protein, to the fresh spinach adding that lovely green vibrancy, and the creamy cheese blend that ties it all together with a dreamy texture and tangy richness.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Rotisserie chicken is perfect here for convenience and flavor.
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped: Adds freshness and a pop of green color while keeping the dish nutritious.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Creates the luscious, creamy base that makes the casserole irresistibly smooth.
- 1 cup sour cream: Brings a tangy contrast that lightens and balances the richness.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to give a gooey, cheesy finish.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, nutty undertones for depth of flavor.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Builds the savory foundation with subtle sweetness when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with an aromatic punch.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing onions and garlic without overpowering flavors.
- ½ tsp onion powder: Enhances the onion flavor even more for that comforting taste.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Compliments the fresh garlic and boosts overall aroma.
- ¼ tsp black pepper: Just enough spice to bring everything to life.
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional): For a bright, fresh garnish that adds color and subtle herbiness.
- 1 cup cooked rice (optional): Adds texture and makes the casserole heartier if you want extra substance.
- 1 tbsp melted butter: Used to grease the casserole dish and help browning.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Oven & Prepare Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch casserole dish with melted butter—this simple step prevents sticking and encourages that lovely golden crust on top.
Step 2: Sauté Onion & Garlic
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onions and cook them for about 3 to 4 minutes until they turn soft and translucent. Then add the minced garlic, cooking for another 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant. This base forms the savory backbone of your casserole.
Step 3: Cook Spinach
Stir in the chopped fresh spinach and cook just until it wilts, which usually takes 3 to 4 minutes. This step brightens the flavor and softens the spinach perfectly, making it easy to blend through the creamy sauce later. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat and set aside.
Step 4: Mix Creamy Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper. Blend everything thoroughly until you get a smooth, rich sauce that’s bursting with cheesy goodness and seasoning.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Add the shredded chicken, sautéed spinach and onions, and the optional cooked rice into the creamy cheese mixture. Stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly—every bite should offer that perfect balance of chicken, greens, and creamy sauce.
Step 6: Bake Casserole
Transfer this luscious mixture into your prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly for consistent cooking. Pop it into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until it’s bubbling hot and the top turns beautifully golden brown. The scent filling your kitchen at this point will be almost impossible to resist!
Step 7: Garnish & Serve
Remove your casserole from the oven and let it rest a few minutes before serving. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for an optional touch of color and freshness that lifts the dish perfectly.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic garnish that adds a vibrant green pop and subtle herbal notes to this casserole. You can also sprinkle some extra grated Parmesan or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes if you want a little kick or an even cheesier finish.
Side Dishes
This casserole is wonderfully filling on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables can add crunch and freshness to your meal. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls also complement the creamy texture and help soak up every last bit of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve portions in individual ramekins to make the meal feel extra special and personalized. Alternatively, spoon the casserole over a bed of fluffy quinoa or herbed couscous for elevated texture contrasts and a colorful plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners throughout the week.
Freezing
This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe freezes very well. Transfer leftovers into a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain its creamy texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftover casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through and bubbly. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes. If it seems dry, add a splash of milk or cream before reheating to restore the creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach if fresh isn’t available. Just be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the dish to prevent the casserole from becoming watery.
Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?
Absolutely! The recipe is naturally gluten-free if you skip the optional cooked rice or use a gluten-free grain like quinoa. Just double-check that your cheeses and other ingredients don’t contain hidden gluten.
Can I substitute the cream cheese?
Cream cheese is key for the creamy texture, but if you need an alternative, mascarpone or ricotta can work, though the flavor and texture will be slightly different—less tangy, but just as rich.
How spicy is this casserole?
This recipe is mild by default. You can easily add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like a little heat with your creamy goodness.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming directly from the fridge.
Final Thoughts
If you want a dish that brings together simplicity and comfort with a burst of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors, you absolutely have to try this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe. It’s versatile, family-friendly, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe box. Treat yourself and those you love to this warm, satisfying casserole soon—you won’t regret it!
Print
Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is a hearty and creamy baked dish perfect for a comforting family meal. Combining tender shredded chicken, fresh spinach, and a blend of creamy cheeses, this casserole is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. The dish is baked until bubbly and golden brown, making it a satisfying dinner option that pairs well with a light salad or steamed vegetables.
Ingredients
Protein & Vegetables
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy & Cheese
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings & Oil
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Optional Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked rice (optional, for added texture)
- 1 tbsp melted butter (for greasing)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven & Prepare Dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9-inch casserole dish with melted butter to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Sauté Onion & Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Then add minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, releasing their flavors.
- Cook Spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach into the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. This step softens the spinach and helps blend it with the other ingredients. Remove the skillet from heat and set aside.
- Mix Creamy Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix everything until smooth and creamy, forming the casserole’s base sauce.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the shredded chicken, sautéed spinach mixture, and optional cooked rice to the creamy sauce. Stir thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated evenly.
- Bake Casserole: Transfer the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown, indicating it’s fully cooked and hot throughout.
- Garnish & Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and optionally garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Allow to sit for a few minutes before serving to let the casserole set and cool slightly for optimal taste and texture.
Notes
- Using rotisserie chicken saves preparation time and adds rich flavor.
- If preferred, substitute cooked quinoa or cauliflower rice for regular rice to reduce carbs.
- For a spicier twist, add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños when sautéeing onions and garlic.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to mix easily and create a smooth sauce.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking cold.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for 3-4 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
