Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Name: Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 3.5 cup shredded cooked chicken; 14 ounces artichoke hearts ((1 can, drained and chopped)); 1 cup cream cheese ((1 brick, softened)); 0.5 cup mayonnaise; 0.5 cup sour cream ((or plain Greek yogurt)); 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon kosher salt ((or to taste)); 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper ((or to taste)); 2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided); 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided); 4 ounces fresh spinach ((about 3 cups))

Introduction to Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole

This Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole is the perfect dish for those cozy nights when you crave something warm and comforting. Packed with shredded chicken, artichoke hearts, and creamy cheeses, this casserole is not just delicious, but it’s also easy to prepare. Whether you’re feeding a family or having friends over, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table.

A Personal Story Behind My Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole Journey

I remember the first time I tasted this dish at a potluck dinner with friends. Everyone raved about it, and when I took my first bite, I was hooked! The creamy texture combined with the savory flavors of spinach and artichokes made it unforgettable. Since then, I’ve made it countless times, tweaking the ingredients and making it my own. It’s become a staple in our household, and I love sharing it with loved ones.

What Makes This Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole Recipe Special?

What sets this casserole apart is its rich and creamy filling, which combines cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream for a luscious texture. The addition of artichokes and spinach not only gives it a delightful flavor but also packs in some nutrients. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—serve it over rice, cauliflower rice, or pasta, or enjoy it on its own. Easy to prepare and loaded with flavor, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

The Full Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole Recipe

Ingredients

3½ cups shredded cooked chicken
14 ounces artichoke hearts (1 can, drained and chopped)
1 cup cream cheese (1 brick, softened)
½ cup mayonnaise
½ cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
½ teaspoon ground black pepper (or to taste)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
4 ounces fresh spinach (about 3 cups)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray. This will help prevent the casserole from sticking and make cleanup easier.
Spread the shredded chicken evenly in the baking pan, then layer the chopped artichoke hearts on top. This ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.

In a large bowl, use an electric hand mixer to blend the cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Be sure to mix thoroughly to get a creamy consistency.
Gently fold in 1 cup of mozzarella, ½ cup of Parmesan, and the fresh spinach until well combined. This step adds texture and flavor to your casserole.

Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken and artichokes, spreading it out evenly. This helps to ensure that every bite is delicious.
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top for a cheesy, golden finish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the casserole is heated through, and the cheese turns golden brown and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

For a nicely browned top, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes. This step gives a lovely crispy texture on top.
Serve the casserole hot over rice, cauliflower rice, or pasta if desired, or enjoy it on its own. Don’t forget to savor every bite!

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole

This casserole is incredibly versatile! You can serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or pasta for a heartier meal. For a healthier twist, consider serving it with cauliflower rice. If you want to make it even more filling, feel free to add cooked pasta directly to the casserole mixture before baking. You can also experiment by adding your favorite herbs or spices to enhance the flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions About Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great way to save time and adds extra flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake it as instructed.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you want a lighter option, you can use low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt as a substitute.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Recipe Stats

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Calories per Serving: 380
Servings: 6