Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

Name: Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 4 cups fresh spinach; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups shredded cheese (1 cup mozzarella, 1 cup cheddar); 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium onion, diced; 1 cup breadcrumbs; Salt & pepper to taste

By Jana Vergara

April 1, 2025

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There’s something downright magical about a creamy chicken and spinach casserole. The savory aroma wafts through the kitchen, promising a warm embrace of flavors that dances on your taste buds. You can practically hear it calling, “Come and eat me” as you imagine a cozy evening with family or friends, gathered around the table.

Picture this: You’re coming home after a long day, and all you want is a comforting meal that feels like a hug from the inside out. This creamy chicken and spinach casserole is just what you need deliciously rich, satisfyingly cheesy, and packed with wholesome goodness. Whether it’s a chilly Sunday dinner or an impromptu gathering, this dish shines in any scenario.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This creamy chicken and spinach casserole is easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free
The flavor profile combines savory chicken with vibrant spinach for a delightful experience
Visually appealing with its cheesy golden crust, it will impress any guest at the dinner table
It’s versatile enough to serve as a main dish or alongside your favorite sides

I remember the first time I made this casserole my friends devoured every last bite while asking for seconds. Their delighted expressions were priceless

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust based on how many people you’re feeding.
Fresh Spinach: Opt for vibrant green leaves they add color and nutrients to the casserole.
Heavy Cream: For that luscious creaminess that makes every bite feel indulgent.
Shredded Cheese: A mix of mozzarella and cheddar works best it melts beautifully.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add aromatic depth don’t skimp on this flavor booster.
Onion: Sweet onions provide sweetness sauté them until translucent for full flavor.
Breadcrumbs: They create an irresistible topping that’s crispy and golden brown.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasoning to elevate all the flavors in your casserole.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Kitchen: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Sauté Your Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and cook chopped chicken until golden brown, approximately 5-7 minutes. The kitchen will smell heavenly.

Add Aromatics & Spinach: Toss in minced garlic and diced onions once the chicken is cooked through. Sauté until onions are soft and fragrant before adding fresh spinach. Cook until wilted.

Create the Creamy Mixture: In a bowl, combine heavy cream with salt, pepper, and half of your shredded cheese. Pour this luscious mixture over the sautéed chicken and spinach in the skillet.

Top It Off: Transfer everything into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly across the top before adding the remaining cheese for that magical melty crust.

Bake Away: Place your casserole in the oven for about 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top. The anticipation will be real as you wait

And just like that, you’ve created a delightful creamy chicken and spinach casserole that brings smiles all around Serve hot with some crusty bread or a fresh salad on the side for an unforgettable meal experience

You Must Know

This creamy chicken and spinach casserole is a weeknight hero, combining ease and flavor
The rich aroma makes your kitchen feel like a cozy restaurant, while the colorful spinach adds a visual pop that tempts everyone to dig in

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken until golden, then sauté onions and garlic before adding spinach and sauce. This sequence locks in flavors and ensures everything cooks evenly.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Swap out spinach for kale or add mushrooms for extra umami. Experiment with different cheeses for a unique twist on creaminess.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F to maintain texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For optimal flavor, season the chicken well before cooking
Avoid overcooking spinach it should be wilted but vibrant
Allow the casserole to rest before serving for better slicing and presentation

Sharing this casserole at my last family gathering was unforgettable everyone went back for seconds, proving comfort food truly connects us all.

FAQs

FAQ

What can I use instead of chicken?

You can substitute shredded rotisserie chicken or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

Can I freeze this creamy chicken and spinach casserole?

Yes, it freezes well Just ensure it’s cooled completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container.

How long does this casserole take to bake?

Bake it at 375°F for approximately 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

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