Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is the ultimate in comfort food. The rich and creamy sauce pairs wonderfully with the tender chicken and spinach, creating a deliciously comforting meal. The combination of flavors makes it an easy, go-to dinner that’s both nutritious and filling. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, making cleanup a breeze! It’s a great option for meal prepping too, as it tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)

• 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup sour cream

• 1 cup cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 cup chicken broth

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper, to taste

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

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.

2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside to cool slightly, then slice into strips or cubes.

3. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.

4. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.

5. In a mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cream cheese, chicken broth, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth.

6. Add the cooked chicken, spinach mixture, and cheese sauce to the prepared baking dish. Stir everything together to coat evenly.

7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden and slightly crispy.

8. Serve hot, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6 people

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 35 minutes

• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Add Mushrooms: Sauté some sliced mushrooms along with the onions and spinach for an extra layer of flavor.

• Make it Keto: Use cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of regular pasta for a low-carb option.

• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños for a little heat.

• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and sour cream to make this casserole suitable for a dairy-free diet.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes.

This casserole also freezes well! Just store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45-60 minutes, or until thoroughly heated.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw it and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the casserole.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled.

Can I substitute the chicken for something else?

Yes, you can use turkey, ground chicken, or even shrimp for a variation. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I add pasta to this casserole?

Yes, you can stir in cooked pasta before baking for a heartier dish. Penne, rotini, or bowtie pasta would work well.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

Yes, this casserole is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and make sure your cream cheese and sour cream are gluten-free.

Can I use a different cheese in this casserole?

Yes, you can substitute the mozzarella and Parmesan with cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or a blend of your favorites.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook the chicken and spinach mixture in the slow cooker on low for 3-4 hours and then add the cheese sauce in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

How do I make this casserole spicier?

You can add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or hot sauce to the sauce or chicken mixture to give it a spicy kick.

Can I make this casserole without chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with other proteins like turkey or use a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option.

How can I make this casserole creamier?

For an even creamier casserole, you can add an extra 1/4 cup of cream cheese or incorporate a little bit of heavy cream.

Conclusion

This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a delightful comfort food that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and savory flavors into one dish. It’s simple to make, easy to customize, and sure to satisfy the whole family. Whether you’re serving it for dinner tonight or meal prepping for the week ahead, this casserole will quickly become a go-to favorite

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