Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe

Introduction

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole combines tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and a rich, velvety sauce into a comforting, satisfying dish. This hearty casserole is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or a meal prep option. The creamy texture pairs beautifully with the savory chicken and earthy spinach, while the cheesy topping adds a golden, crispy finish. Whether you’re a busy home cook or an experienced chef, this dish is simple to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table.

This guide will walk you through the process of making this creamy, flavorful casserole, provide tips for success, and offer suggestions for customizing it to fit your preferences.

Why You’ll Love Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

• Rich, Creamy Flavor: The combination of chicken, spinach, and a creamy sauce creates a luxurious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for comfort food lovers.
• Nutrient-Packed: The spinach not only adds a beautiful color but also provides essential vitamins and minerals, making this casserole a balanced option for your family’s meals.
• Simple, Easy to Make: With a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, this casserole comes together quickly, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option.
• Versatile: This recipe can be adjusted with different proteins, vegetables, or seasonings to match your taste preferences or dietary needs.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its creamy, cheesy goodness, this casserole is sure to impress at dinner parties, potlucks, or family meals.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 6 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 400-450 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 400-450 kcal
• Fat: 25-30g
• Carbohydrates: 10-15g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 3-4g
• Sugar: 3-5g

Ingredients

For the Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole:

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed (rotisserie chicken works well)
• 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or 1½ cups frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup (or use homemade)
• 1 cup sour cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko, for a crunchier topping)
• Optional: 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing the baking dish)

Special Equipment

Though this casserole doesn’t require any fancy equipment, a few tools will help make the preparation and baking process more efficient:

1. Large Skillet: For sautéing the onions, garlic, and spinach before combining everything in the casserole.
2. Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch baking dish is ideal for this casserole, ensuring that the ingredients are spread out evenly for baking.
3. Mixing Bowls: Use one for combining the creamy sauce and chicken mixture and another for mixing the breadcrumb topping.
4. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the right proportions of ingredients.
5. Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the mixture and folding in the spinach and chicken.
6. Grater: If you’re grating fresh Parmesan cheese or mozzarella, a fine grater will give you the best results.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken and Spinach

Start by cooking the chicken. If you’re using raw chicken breasts, cook them through by either baking, grilling, or sautéing until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, shred or cube the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

If you’re using rotisserie chicken, simply shred the meat and set it aside.

Next, prepare the spinach. If you’re using fresh spinach, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and sauté it for 2-3 minutes until wilted. If you’re using frozen spinach, make sure it’s thoroughly thawed and drained of excess moisture before adding it to the skillet.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil or butter and sauté the diced onion for about 5 minutes, until it becomes translucent and soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, just until fragrant.

This step builds a flavorful base for your casserole, allowing the aromatics to release their natural flavors into the dish.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce

In a separate bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, grated Parmesan cheese, dried basil, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the sauce is smooth and evenly blended. This sauce will provide the creamy base for your casserole.

4. Assemble the Casserole

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, sautéed spinach, and onion-garlic mixture. Stir in the creamy sauce, making sure everything is well coated. If the mixture feels too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to thin it out slightly.

Transfer the mixture to your greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, pressing down gently with the back of a spoon.

5. Top with Cheese and Breadcrumbs

Once the chicken and spinach mixture is spread out in the baking dish, top it with the shredded mozzarella cheese. This will melt into the casserole, adding a deliciously gooey texture.

Next, sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top. If you like a richer topping, you can toss the breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter before sprinkling them on top of the casserole. This will create a golden, crispy layer as it bakes.

6. Bake the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare the casserole. Bake the casserole for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. You’ll know it’s ready when the sauce is hot and bubbly around the edges, and the breadcrumb topping is crispy.

7. Cool and Serve

After baking, allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before serving. This gives the sauce a chance to set, making it easier to scoop and serve. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color, if desired.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

• Use Leftover Chicken: This is a great recipe to use up leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken, making it a quick and easy option.
• Don’t Skip the Spinach: The spinach adds great flavor and nutrients to the casserole. If you’re not a fan of spinach, you can swap it out for another leafy green like kale.
• Customize the Cheese: While mozzarella and Parmesan are the classic cheeses for this recipe, feel free to use cheddar or fontina for a different twist.
• Make it Low-Carb: For a low-carb version, omit the breadcrumbs and use cauliflower rice instead of the breadcrumbs to create a crust-like topping.
• Add Some Heat: If you like a little spice, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the sauce.

Variations of Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

• Chicken and Mushroom Casserole: Add sautéed mushrooms to the mix for an earthy flavor that complements the spinach and chicken.
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Spinach Casserole: Add an extra boost of flavor by mixing roasted garlic and extra Parmesan cheese into the creamy sauce.
• Pesto Chicken and Spinach Casserole: Stir in a couple of tablespoons of pesto into the sauce for a fresh, herby twist.
• Chicken and Broccoli Casserole: Add steamed broccoli florets to the casserole for an extra vegetable that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.

Storage and Shelf Life

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes.

For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. Cover it tightly with foil and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until fully heated through.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

Pair this creamy casserole with complementary dishes to complete your meal:

• Garlic Bread: A slice of warm garlic bread is perfect for sopping up any leftover creamy sauce.
• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a nice contrast to the rich casserole.
• Rice or Mashed Potatoes: Serve the casserole over a bed of rice or mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts offer a flavorful and nutritious side.

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Conclusion

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines creamy chicken, spinach, and cheese in a simple yet delicious recipe. With its rich sauce, tender chicken, and crunchy breadcrumb topping, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you serve it for dinner, a special occasion, or as part of a meal prep routine, this casserole is always a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the creamy goodness in every bite—this recipe is sure to be a staple in your kitchen for years to come!