Spinach Chicken Casserole: The Ultimate Cream Cheese Delight

Introduction to Spinach Chicken Casserole

Welcome to the wonderful world of Spinach Chicken Casserole! This delightful dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a comforting meal that brings warmth to any table. Perfect for family gatherings or a quiet dinner at home, this casserole combines tender chicken, creamy cheese, and nutrient-rich spinach, making it a well-rounded choice for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty meal.

A Personal Story Behind My Spinach Chicken Casserole Journey

Growing up, dinner time was always a cherished family moment, filled with laughter and delicious aromas wafting from the kitchen. One of my fondest memories is when my grandmother introduced me to her famous Spinach Chicken Casserole. She would whip it up with love, and it became a staple in our family. Now, I’m excited to share this recipe with you, ensuring that the joy and flavor of this dish can be passed down through generations.

What Makes This Spinach Chicken Casserole Recipe Special?

This Spinach Chicken Casserole is special not just for its taste, but for its versatility. The creamy texture of the cream cheese pairs perfectly with the savory chicken and the freshness of the spinach. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and bake, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. You can easily customize it to suit your taste, whether you prefer a bit of spice or additional vegetables.

The Full Spinach Chicken Casserole Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut horizontally
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups spinach, rinsed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 4 oz Mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning, optional

Instructions

1. In a Ziplock bag, combine 1 tablespoon olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Seal the bag and shake to mix the ingredients well. This creates a flavorful marinade for the chicken.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the bag, seal it tightly, and massage the bag gently to coat the chicken evenly with the marinade. Allow the chicken to marinate for 10-15 minutes on the counter. This step enhances the flavor of the chicken.
3. Preheat your oven to 400ºF (200°C) and place a rack in the center. A properly preheated oven ensures even cooking.
4. In a skillet, quickly wilt the spinach with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Once wilted, remove from heat and set aside. This step helps to reduce the moisture in the spinach, preventing the casserole from becoming watery.
5. Place the marinated chicken breasts in a baking dish. Spread the softened cream cheese generously over the chicken. Top with the wilted spinach, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Finally, sprinkle shredded Mozzarella cheese over the top for that delicious melty finish.
6. Bake the spinach stuffed chicken casserole for 20-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165˚F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. This ensures that the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
7. Serve the casserole warm, paired with cauliflower rice or baked veggies on the side for a complete meal. Enjoy every bite of this hearty dish!

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Spinach Chicken Casserole

This Spinach Chicken Casserole is incredibly versatile! For a flavorful twist, consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts to the mix. If you enjoy a bit of spice, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or drizzle a bit of hot sauce into the cream cheese before baking. Pair it with a fresh salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious flavors. You can also swap out the spinach for kale or other leafy greens based on your preference!

Frequently Asked Questions About Spinach Chicken Casserole

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to cover it well. Bake it when you are ready to serve!

Is this casserole suitable for freezing?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! Just make sure to allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake until heated through.

What can I serve with this casserole?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or roasted vegetables. You might also enjoy it with some crusty bread or quinoa for a complete meal.

Recipe Stats

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Calories per Serving: 350

Servings: 4

Spinach Chicken Casserole With Cream Cheese

A creamy and delicious Spinach Chicken Casserole that's perfect for any occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Oven Preheat to 400ºF (200°C)
• Skillet For wilting spinach

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts cut horizontally
• 8 oz cream cheese softened
• 2 cups spinach rinsed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
• 4 oz Mozzarella cheese shredded
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon Italian seasoning optional

Instructions

 

• In a Ziplock bag, combine 1 tablespoon olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Seal the bag and shake to mix the ingredients well.
• Add the chicken breasts to the bag, seal it tightly, and massage the bag gently to coat the chicken evenly with the marinade. Allow the chicken to marinate for 10-15 minutes on the counter.
• Preheat your oven to 400ºF (200°C) and place a rack in the center.
• In a skillet, quickly wilt the spinach with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes. Once wilted, remove from heat and set aside.
• Place the marinated chicken breasts in a baking dish. Spread the softened cream cheese generously over the chicken. Top with the wilted spinach, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Finally, sprinkle shredded Mozzarella cheese over the top for that delicious melty finish.
• Bake the spinach stuffed chicken casserole for 20-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165˚F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
• Serve the casserole warm, paired with cauliflower rice or baked veggies on the side for a complete meal. Enjoy every bite of this hearty dish!

Notes

For a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture before baking.

Keyword Spinach Chicken Casserole Recipe