Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a rich, satisfying dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a creamy sauce that is both comforting and indulgent. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special meal to serve guests. The creamy texture from the cream cheese and sour cream pairs beautifully with the mild spinach and melted cheese on top, creating a delicious balance of flavors. It’s an easy-to-make casserole that can be prepared ahead of time and baked when you’re ready. This dish is ideal when you want something hearty but not overly complicated.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Rich and Creamy

The combination of cream cheese, sour cream, and melted mozzarella creates a luscious, creamy sauce that’s hard to resist.

2. Packed with Flavor

The savory chicken, fresh spinach, and aromatic garlic and onions bring together an incredibly flavorful dish.

3. Simple to Make

This casserole requires minimal prep and uses easy-to-find ingredients, making it perfect for busy evenings.

4. Versatile Additions

You can easily customize the recipe by adding mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or even cooked pasta for added texture and flavor.

5. One-Dish Meal

Everything is cooked in one casserole dish, making cleanup quick and easy. Plus, it’s a filling, complete meal with protein and vegetables.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

Cooked and shredded chicken
Fresh spinach (or frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
Cream cheese (softened)
Sour cream
Shredded mozzarella cheese
Grated Parmesan cheese
Garlic cloves
Onion
Salt
Black pepper
Nutmeg (optional)

Optional Additions:

Sliced mushrooms
Artichoke hearts
Cooked pasta

Variations

Add More Veggies: Include other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or peas for extra nutrients and flavor.
Low-Carb Version: Skip the pasta and serve with a side of cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a bit of heat.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

If your chicken isn’t pre-cooked, cook and shred it into bite-sized pieces.
For fresh spinach, sauté it lightly in a pan until wilted. If using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to remove excess water.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, garlic, onion, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a casserole dish and layer the shredded chicken, sautéed spinach, and the creamy sauce.
Gently mix the ingredients to combine them in the dish.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to set.
Pair it with a fresh salad, some crusty bread, or rice for a complete meal.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overcook the Spinach: If using fresh spinach, avoid overcooking it to maintain its color and nutrients.
Make It Ahead: You can prepare the casserole ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
Customize the Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, Gruyère, or provolone for a unique flavor twist.
Avoid Excess Water: Make sure the spinach is well-drained before adding it to the casserole to prevent a watery dish.

How to Serve

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole can be served as a complete meal on its own or with sides like rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables. A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole perfectly. For a more filling meal, serve it with garlic bread or crusty rolls to soak up the delicious creamy sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven, covering the casserole to prevent it from drying out.

Freezing

This casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.

Reheating

When reheating from the fridge, simply cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F until hot and bubbly. You may want to add a small splash of cream or broth if the sauce looks too thick.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use cooked frozen chicken for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it before shredding.

2. Can I substitute the sour cream?

Yes, you can substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist or for a healthier option.

3. Is this casserole suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this casserole can be made ahead of time and stored for easy meal prep. It keeps well in the fridge for several days.

4. Can I add pasta to the casserole?

Yes, you can mix cooked pasta (like penne or rotini) into the casserole for a heartier meal.

5. Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, frozen spinach works just as well as fresh. Just make sure to thaw and drain it completely to avoid excess water.

6. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free cream cheese and sour cream, and substitute non-dairy cheese.

7. How do I make this dish spicier?

You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh chopped jalapeños to the creamy sauce to give it a spicy kick.

8. Can I make this without onions?

Yes, if you prefer not to use onions, you can leave them out or replace them with some onion powder for flavor.

9. Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, you can add mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or bell peppers to the casserole for added flavor and texture.

10. How long will this casserole last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a delicious, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or preparing a meal to impress guests, this casserole offers rich flavors and a satisfying texture. It’s easy to make, customizable, and can be prepped ahead of time for convenience. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and flavorful spinach, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.