Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese Recipe

Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese Recipe: Creamy, Cheesy & Comforting Dish

When I first tried this chicken and spinach casserole with cream cheese, I couldn’t believe how simple it was to make something so incredibly delicious.

I had been searching for a weeknight dinner that would satisfy my family’s love for comfort food while sneaking in some healthy greens, and this recipe became my go-to solution.

The creamy texture from the cream cheese paired with tender chicken and vibrant spinach creates a harmony of flavors that makes everyone ask for seconds.

I love how this dish transforms basic ingredients into something that feels restaurant-worthy, yet I can have it on the table in just 30 minutes. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a regular in your dinner rotation just like it has in mine.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting casserole that serves your family perfectly.

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts – I always slice these into thin cutlets for even cooking and faster bake time
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – This helps the seasonings stick to the chicken and prevents drying out
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic makes all the difference, though garlic powder works in a pinch
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that adds depth without overwhelming the cream cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – Essential for bringing out all the flavors in the dish
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Freshly ground pepper gives the best flavor
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for spinach) – Separate oil for cooking the spinach properly
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach – I never use frozen spinach here as it releases too much water and makes the casserole soggy
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened – Room temperature cream cheese spreads much easier and creates a smoother texture
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – I always grate my own from a block for better melting and flavor

Note: This recipe serves 4 people generously, perfect for a family dinner with leftovers for lunch the next day.

Variations

Transform this basic recipe to suit different dietary needs and flavor preferences.

• Dairy-Free Options: Replace the cream cheese with cashew cream cheese or a dairy-free alternative, and use nutritional yeast instead of mozzarella for a cheesy flavor. Coconut cream can also work as a creamy base with added herbs.
• Low-Carb Modifications: Add a layer of cauliflower rice beneath the spinach to create more bulk without carbs. You can also use full-fat Greek yogurt mixed with cream cheese for added protein.
• Flavor Enhancers: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or sautéed mushrooms for extra vegetables. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds gentle heat, while lemon zest brightens the entire dish.
• Protein Variations: Substitute the chicken with turkey, salmon, or even plant-based protein crumbles for vegetarian versions. Leftover rotisserie chicken works wonderfully for quicker preparation.

Cooking Time

Plan your meal preparation with these timing guidelines.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Equipment You Need

Having the right tools makes this recipe even easier to execute perfectly.

• Medium mixing bowl – For marinating the chicken with seasonings
• Large skillet – To properly wilt the spinach without overcrowding
• 8×8 inch baking dish – The perfect size for this recipe’s proportions
• Sharp knife – For slicing chicken into even cutlets
• Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient proportions
• Meat thermometer – To ensure chicken reaches safe internal temperature of 165°F

How to Make Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

Creating this delicious casserole is straightforward when you follow these step-by-step instructions. The key is properly preparing each component before assembly to ensure even cooking and maximum flavor. Let me walk you through each stage of this simple yet satisfying recipe.

Prepare the Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F to ensure it’s ready when you need it. Place the chicken breasts in a medium mixing bowl and drizzle with olive oil, ensuring all pieces are coated. Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, then mix thoroughly so every piece of chicken is well-seasoned.

Cook the Spinach

Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers slightly. Add the fresh spinach to the pan and stir frequently as it wilts down, which takes about 2-3 minutes. The spinach will reduce significantly in volume, so don’t worry if it looks like too much at first.

Assemble the Casserole

Lightly grease your 8×8 inch baking dish to prevent sticking during baking. Place the seasoned chicken pieces in the bottom of the dish, spreading them out evenly. Dollop the softened cream cheese over the chicken, then gently spread it around to create a creamy layer.

Add Layers

Distribute the wilted spinach evenly over the cream cheese layer, creating a nice green blanket. Top everything with the shredded mozzarella cheese, making sure to cover the entire surface. This cheese layer will create a beautiful golden top when baked properly.

Bake to Perfection

Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F and the cheese is golden and bubbling. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

From my experience making this recipe countless times, I’ve discovered several tricks that elevate the final result.

• I always let the cream cheese come to room temperature before using it – this prevents lumpy textures and ensures smooth spreading
• When I slice the chicken, I make sure each piece is about the same thickness so everything cooks evenly
• I’ve found that patting the spinach dry after wilting prevents excess moisture from making the casserole watery
• Adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cream cheese gives it a subtle warmth that complements the spinach beautifully
• I sometimes sprinkle a little parmesan on top during the last 5 minutes of baking for extra golden color
• Letting the dish rest after baking is crucial – I learned this the hard way when my early attempts were too liquidy

How to Serve Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

This versatile casserole pairs beautifully with various sides and presentation styles.

Serve this creamy casserole alongside simple roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans to balance the richness. A fresh garden salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the cream cheese beautifully, while garlic bread makes it feel like a complete comfort meal.

For presentation, I like to garnish each serving with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil, which adds color and freshness. The casserole also works wonderfully over rice, pasta, or even cauliflower rice for those watching carbs.

A light drizzle of balsamic glaze around the plate edge creates an elegant restaurant-style presentation that impresses guests.

Nutritional Information

Understanding the nutritional content helps you plan this dish into your meal rotation effectively.

• Calories: Approximately 385 per serving, making it a satisfying yet reasonable dinner option
• Protein: 32 grams per serving, providing excellent muscle-building nutrients from the chicken
• Carbohydrates: 6 grams per serving, keeping it naturally low-carb friendly
• Fat: 26 grams per serving, with healthy fats from olive oil and satisfying richness from dairy

Make Ahead and Storage

Planning ahead makes this recipe even more convenient for busy families and meal preppers.

• Make Ahead: You can assemble this entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes while your oven preheats, then add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time.
• Storage: Leftover casserole keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors actually improve overnight as they meld together, making leftovers taste even better than the first day.

Freezing: This casserole freezes well for up to 3 months when wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw completely in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in a 325°F oven until warmed through.

Reheating: For best results, reheat portions in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or use the microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. Adding a splash of chicken broth helps restore creaminess if needed.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chicken and spinach casserole delivers on multiple fronts, making it a winner for families and busy cooks alike.

• Incredibly Easy Preparation: The entire dish comes together in under 40 minutes with minimal prep work, making it perfect for weeknight dinners when time is tight. You’ll love how the simple assembly process requires no complicated techniques or special cooking skills.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Even picky eaters enjoy this creamy, comforting dish because the mild flavors aren’t overwhelming. The melted cheese on top creates kid appeal while the hidden spinach adds nutrition parents appreciate.
• Versatile and Adaptable: This recipe works as a base for countless variations, letting you customize it based on what’s in your fridge or your family’s preferences. From protein swaps to vegetable additions, the possibilities are endless.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: The make-ahead friendly nature means you can prep multiple casseroles on weekends for busy weeknights ahead. It reheats beautifully and tastes just as good as fresh from the oven.
• Nutritionally Balanced: With lean protein, healthy greens, and reasonable portions, this dish satisfies comfort food cravings while providing substantial nutrition. The high protein content keeps everyone satisfied for hours after dinner.