Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

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Why Make This Recipe

Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is a comforting dish that everyone loves. It combines lean chicken, delicious spinach, and creamy cheese into one satisfying meal. This recipe is not just delicious; it is also packed with nutrients. Chicken provides protein, spinach adds vitamins and minerals, and cream cheese gives that rich and creamy texture that everyone craves. Whether you are trying to impress guests or want a hearty weeknight dinner, this recipe is a great choice. It’s easy to make and ensures that you can enjoy a warm, homemade meal quickly.

This casserole is also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it as a main dish or serve it alongside rice or a salad. Plus, it can be made ahead of time and easily stored for later. If you’re a busy person who still wants to cook homemade meals, this recipe is perfect for you. You can prepare it on a weekend and even freeze it. When you’re ready to eat, just pop it into the oven.

How to Make Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

Making Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is simple. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to share with your family or friends.

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

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by preparing the chicken breasts. Cut them in half horizontally to create thinner pieces. Once that is done, pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This will help the chicken sear better when cooked.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a medium bowl, mix together 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This will act as a marinade for the chicken. Place the chicken pieces in the mixture and make sure they are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, marinating them for a longer period will enhance the flavor even more.

Step 3: Cook the Spinach

While the chicken is marinating, take a large skillet and heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the washed spinach to the skillet and sauté it until it is wilted. This will take about 3-5 minutes. Once cooked, remove the spinach from the heat and set it aside to cool slightly.

Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Once blended, fold in the sautéed spinach. Make sure everything is well mixed. This creamy mixture will add richness to the casserole.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Now it’s time to assemble the casserole. In a baking dish, lay down the marinated chicken pieces. Spread the cream cheese and spinach mixture evenly over the chicken. This creamy layer will keep the chicken moist and flavorful as it bakes.

Step 6: Add the Creamy Layer

Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the cream cheese mixture. If you want to add an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle the optional Parmesan cheese on top as well. This will create a beautiful golden crust as it cooks.

Step 7: Bake

Now, it’s time to bake the casserole. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. You will know it’s done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The cheese should be bubbly and slightly browned.

How to Serve Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

Once your casserole is baked to perfection, let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This will allow the cheese to set a little, making it easier to dish out. You can serve this casserole on its own, or pair it with a side of steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. A little sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, can also add a nice touch.

This dish is filling and satisfying, making it a great option for dinner. Leftovers, if there are any, can be enjoyed for lunch the next day or warmed up for a quick snack.

How to Store Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

If you have leftovers, storing Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is quite simple. Let the dish cool to room temperature before covering it with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to reheat it gently in the oven or microwave to maintain its texture and flavor.

For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. To do this, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then cover it with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It should keep well for up to 2-3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, and then reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Tips to Make Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

Use Leftover Chicken: If you have leftover cooked chicken, you can use it in this recipe. Simply shred it and mix it into the spinach cream cheese mixture for an even quicker preparation.
Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables to the casserole. Chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini can be sautéed along with the spinach to enhance the nutritional value and flavor.
Use Different Cheeses: While the recipe calls for mozzarella and cream cheese, you can experiment with other types. Cheddar cheese or feta cheese can be tasty alternatives that will give the dish a new twist.
Adjust Seasonings: The Italian seasoning is a great base, but if you enjoy bold flavors, feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, or fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a fresh taste.
Make it Gluten-Free: This casserole is inherently gluten-free. Always check the ingredients of the products you use to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

Variations

If you’re looking for different twists on the Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese, here are a few variations to consider:

Mediterranean Style: Add sun-dried tomatoes and kalamata olives to the cream cheese mixture for a Mediterranean flair.
Curry Flavor: Mix in curry powder or paste with the cream cheese for an exciting twist. This can give a whole different flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with chicken.
Mexican Inspired: Substitute the Italian seasoning for taco seasoning, and mix in some black beans and corn. Top it with some shredded cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of cilantro for a lovely Tex-Mex version.
Low-Carb Version: Omit the cream cheese and substitute a cauliflower base for the chicken, making it a low-carb alternative while still being filling.

FAQs

Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the cream cheese mixture. Frozen spinach can sometimes be more convenient and still offers plenty of nutrients.

Is It Possible to Make This Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just assemble it, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook it, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time since it will go into the oven cold.

How Can I Tell When the Chicken is Done Cooking?

To ensure that your chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should read 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the chicken. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the chicken to check that it is no longer pink inside.

Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is a delicious meal that is easy to prepare and enjoy. With the richness of creamy cheese and the healthiness of chicken and spinach, it is a dish that will satisfy everyone at the table. So gather your ingredients and try this recipe today!