Why You’ll Love Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese Recipe

This Chicken and Spinach Casserole is the perfect comfort food for any night of the week. With its creamy texture and flavorful chicken, it combines the best of cheesy casseroles with the goodness of spinach. The cream cheese and mozzarella create a luscious sauce, while the spinach adds a burst of freshness and nutrients. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is both satisfying and simple to make. Plus, it’s low-carb, keto-friendly, and gluten-free, making it an excellent option for those following specific diets.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the cream cheese, sour cream, and chicken broth. Stir and cook over medium heat until the cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
Add the spinach and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until wilted.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and half of the mozzarella cheese.
Slice the cooked chicken breasts and arrange them in a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish.
Pour the creamy spinach mixture over the chicken and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Variations

Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier option.
Low-Fat Options: Use low-fat cream cheese and sour cream to reduce the calorie count.
Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian twist, substitute the chicken with tofu or more vegetables, like mushrooms or zucchini.
Cheese Swap: Try different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a unique flavor profile.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to the sauce for a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or oven until hot. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to prevent the cheese from over-browning.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead. Cover and refrigerate it, then bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach for fresh. Be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the sauce.

Can I use a different type of chicken?

You can substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs, or even use rotisserie chicken for an easy shortcut.

How do I know when the casserole is done baking?

The casserole is done when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top, and the dish is heated through.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, use a dairy-free cream cheese and a dairy-free sour cream alternative. You can also swap the mozzarella and Parmesan for plant-based cheese options.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, you can add other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra flavor and texture.

How can I thicken the sauce?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a bit of cornstarch or a flour slurry to the mixture while it’s heating on the stove.

What should I serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple salad or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with a side of mashed potatoes or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe if you need more servings. Just use a larger casserole dish and adjust the baking time as necessary.

Conclusion

This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness and nutritious spinach, making it an ideal weeknight dinner. It’s easy to prepare, delicious, and comforting, perfect for families or meal prep. Whether you’re looking for a low-carb dinner or simply a comforting dish, this casserole is sure to satisfy. Enjoy!

Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

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This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is a comforting and creamy dish that blends tender chicken breasts with a luscious spinach and cream cheese sauce. A perfect dinner option for family meals, meal prep, or weeknight comfort food. It’s easy to make, low carb, gluten-free, and packed with cheesy goodness that everyone will love!

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the cream cheese, sour cream, and chicken broth. Stir and cook over medium heat until the cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
Add the spinach and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until wilted.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and half of the mozzarella cheese.
Slice the cooked chicken breasts and arrange them in a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish.
Pour the creamy spinach mixture over the chicken and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

If you want to make this dish ahead of time, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
For a richer flavor, try adding a bit of heavy cream to the sauce.
You can use frozen spinach if fresh spinach isn’t available, just be sure to thaw and drain it well before using.