Welcome, food lovers! If you’re searching for a comforting, creamy dish packed with flavor, this Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is exactly what you need. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or looking to impress guests, this recipe blends the richness of cream cheese with the healthy goodness of spinach and chicken. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare and will quickly become a family favorite!
Introduction
The Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is a delicious American-inspired dish that combines tender chicken breast with wilted spinach, all layered under a smooth, cheesy cream cheese mixture. This dish embodies comfort food, delivering the perfect balance of richness from the cheeses and freshness from the spinach. It’s perfect for those who love cheesy casseroles and are looking for a new twist on a classic chicken bake.
With minimal prep time, this recipe brings restaurant-quality flavors to your dinner table, making it an excellent go-to for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. You can also personalize the dish with optional ingredients like Parmesan for added depth. Read on to learn how to prepare this mouthwatering chicken and spinach casserole!
Ingredients for Chicken and Spinach Casserole
To make this flavorful Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved horizontally
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1⁄4 teaspoon salt
- 1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1⁄2 cup Parmesan cheese, optional
Optional Substitutions:
- Replace cream cheese with low-fat cream cheese for a lighter version.
- For a dairy-free option, swap cream cheese with vegan cream cheese and use a dairy-free mozzarella alternative.
- Substitute chicken with tofu or turkey for a different protein source.
How to Make Chicken and Spinach Casserole – Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Then, cut the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create four even cutlets. Gently pound the thicker ends of the chicken with a rolling pin or meat mallet so they are uniform in thickness, ensuring even cooking.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, mix 1 tablespoon olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cutlets and toss until coated evenly. Cover and refrigerate for about 15-30 minutes to let the flavors soak in.
Step 3: Cook the Spinach
Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the fresh spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until it wilts down. Set it aside once wilted and allow it to cool slightly.
Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a medium-sized bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Fold in the wilted spinach, 1/2 cup mozzarella, and optional Parmesan cheese. Stir until well combined.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Take the marinated chicken out of the refrigerator, shaking off any excess marinade. If desired, sear the chicken in the skillet for 1-2 minutes per side to develop extra flavor. Arrange the chicken cutlets in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
Step 6: Add the Creamy Layer
Spread the spinach and cream cheese mixture evenly over the chicken. Then, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese on top.
Step 7: Bake
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown. Let the casserole stand for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Helpful Tips for Chicken and Spinach Casserole
- Use fresh spinach for the best flavor, but frozen spinach (thawed and drained) works if you’re in a pinch.
- Searing the chicken briefly before baking helps lock in moisture and adds a deeper flavor.
- Cream cheese should be softened for easy mixing. Leave it at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before using.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chicken and Spinach Casserole
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to infuse more flavor.
- Use a thermometer to check if the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring it’s fully cooked.
- For an extra crispy top, switch to broil mode in the last 2 minutes of baking.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken and Spinach Casserole
This casserole pairs wonderfully with simple sides like:
- Garlic bread or crusty baguette to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for added nutrients.
- A fresh, zesty side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the dish.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the nutritional info for Chicken and Spinach Casserole per serving:
- Calories: 528 kcal
- Fats: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Proteins: 42g
- Vitamins: Rich in Vitamin A and Calcium from spinach and cheese.
Storage and Leftovers for Chicken and Spinach Casserole
To store any leftover Chicken and Spinach Casserole, cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil or transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place a portion in the microwave or warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
If you want to freeze the dish, wrap it well and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Chicken and Spinach Casserole
- Can I use frozen spinach in this recipe? Yes! Just be sure to thaw it and squeeze out any excess water before mixing it with the cream cheese.
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! Prepare the dish up to Step 6 and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven.
- Can I substitute the chicken with another protein? Yes, turkey breasts or tofu make excellent alternatives for a different twist.
- What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F to preserve the creamy texture and prevent sogginess.
Related Recipes for Chicken and Spinach Casserole Lovers
If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out these delicious options for more inspiration:
- Ultimate Cowboy Casserole Cornbread – A Hearty Meal
- Sausage Balls Recipe with Red Lobster Mix – Easy and Tasty
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy making this rich and creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese! It’s perfect for any occasion and guarantees a comforting, flavor-packed meal. Don’t forget to share your own variations or tips in the comments below. Happy cooking!
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Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese – Easy Recipe
Description
Welcome, food lovers! If you’re searching for a comforting, creamy dish packed with flavor, this Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is exactly what you need. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or looking to impress guests, this recipe blends the richness of cream cheese with the healthy goodness of spinach and chicken. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare and will quickly become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved horizontally
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1⁄4 teaspoon salt
- 1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1⁄2 cup Parmesan cheese, optional
Optional Substitutions:
- Replace cream cheese with low-fat cream cheese for a lighter version.
- For a dairy-free option, swap cream cheese with vegan cream cheese and use a dairy-free mozzarella alternative.
- Substitute chicken with tofu or turkey for a different protein source.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Then, cut the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create four even cutlets. Gently pound the thicker ends of the chicken with a rolling pin or meat mallet so they are uniform in thickness, ensuring even cooking.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, mix 1 tablespoon olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cutlets and toss until coated evenly. Cover and refrigerate for about 15-30 minutes to let the flavors soak in.
Step 3: Cook the Spinach
Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the fresh spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until it wilts down. Set it aside once wilted and allow it to cool slightly.
Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a medium-sized bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Fold in the wilted spinach, 1/2 cup mozzarella, and optional Parmesan cheese. Stir until well combined.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Take the marinated chicken out of the refrigerator, shaking off any excess marinade. If desired, sear the chicken in the skillet for 1-2 minutes per side to develop extra flavor. Arrange the chicken cutlets in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
Step 6: Add the Creamy Layer
Spread the spinach and cream cheese mixture evenly over the chicken. Then, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese on top.
Step 7: Bake
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown. Let the casserole stand for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Use fresh spinach for the best flavor, but frozen spinach (thawed and drained) works if you’re in a pinch.
- Searing the chicken briefly before baking helps lock in moisture and adds a deeper flavor.
- Cream cheese should be softened for easy mixing. Leave it at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before using.
