Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

Introduction

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is your ticket to a warm, comforting meal that feels like a hug on a plate! This hearty dish combines tender chicken, a luscious creamy sauce, and nutrient-rich spinach, all baked to perfection with a golden, cheesy topping. It’s everything you crave in a cozy casserole—rich, satisfying, and packed with flavor.

The first time I made this for a family dinner, it disappeared in minutes! The combination of juicy chicken and velvety sauce, balanced by the fresh taste of spinach, makes it a crowd-pleaser. And the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! You can keep it simple or customize it with mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or even a crispy breadcrumb topping for extra texture.

This dish is also a one-pan wonder—perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick yet satisfying meal. Serve it as is for a low-carb option, or pair it with pasta, rice, or a slice of crusty bread to soak up every creamy bite. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation!

Perfect for:

• Family dinners
• Meal prep
• Potlucks and gatherings
• Comfort food cravings
• Easy weeknight meals

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

Here’s why Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole will become a staple in your kitchen:

• Rich and Creamy Texture: A luscious, cheesy sauce coats the chicken and spinach, making each bite indulgent.
• Packed with Protein and Nutrients: Chicken provides lean protein, while spinach adds vitamins and minerals.
• Easy One-Pan Meal: Everything is baked in one dish, making prep and cleanup simple.
• Customizable: Swap ingredients based on what you have available—use different cheeses, add mushrooms, or throw in extra veggies.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This dish reheats well, making it ideal for meal prep.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 10g, Fat: 22g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
• 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• ½ cup cooked bacon bits (optional, for extra flavor)

Ingredient Highlights

• Chicken: Use pre-cooked shredded or cubed chicken for convenience. Rotisserie chicken works great!
• Spinach: Fresh spinach adds nutrients, but frozen spinach (thawed and drained) can be used as well.
• Cheese: Mozzarella provides creaminess, while Parmesan adds a rich, savory depth.
• Heavy Cream & Sour Cream: These create a luxuriously creamy sauce that binds the casserole together.
• Seasonings: Italian seasoning, garlic, and paprika enhance the flavors without overpowering the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole:

Prepare the Ingredients:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
2. Cook the Spinach: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and sauté for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat.
3. Mix the Sauce: In a large bowl, combine heavy cream, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended.
4. Assemble the Casserole: In the greased baking dish, layer the cooked chicken evenly. Add the sautéed spinach on top. Pour the creamy sauce over the mixture, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
5. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the casserole. If using bacon bits, sprinkle them on top for extra flavor.

Bake the Casserole:

6. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Broil for a Golden Top (Optional): For a golden, crispy cheese layer, broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes.
8. Rest Before Serving: Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole pairs well with a variety of sides and serving ideas:

• Over Rice – Spoon the casserole over fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the creamy sauce.
• With Pasta – Serve it atop cooked pasta like penne, fettuccine, or egg noodles for a hearty meal.
• With Mashed Potatoes – A perfect comfort food pairing with creamy mashed potatoes.
• In a Bread Bowl – Hollow out a crusty bread roll and fill it with the warm casserole.
• With Roasted Vegetables – Balance the richness by serving it alongside roasted carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts.
• Over Toast or Biscuits – Spoon it over toasted bread or freshly baked biscuits for a Southern-style dish.
• With a Side Salad – Serve with a fresh green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
• In a Baked Potato – Scoop it into a baked potato for a satisfying and delicious meal.
• With Cauliflower Rice – A great low-carb option that still provides a satisfying base.
• As a Filling for Wraps or Tacos – Use tortillas or wraps for a fun and flavorful twist on serving.

Additional Tips for Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

Follow these tips to ensure your Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole turns out perfectly every time:

• Use Rotisserie Chicken for Convenience: Save time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken.
• Drain Excess Liquid: If using frozen spinach, thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding it to the casserole.
• For a Thicker Sauce: Reduce the amount of chicken broth slightly or add 1 tablespoon of flour or cornstarch.
• Add Extra Vegetables: Mushrooms, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes can be added for more flavor and texture.
• Use Different Cheeses: Swap mozzarella for cheddar, Gouda, or provolone for a unique twist.
• Make It Spicier: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.

Recipe Variations for Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

Here are 10 variations you can try for Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole:

• Mushroom Chicken and Spinach Casserole: Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
• Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Casserole: Swap spinach for broccoli florets.
• Buffalo Chicken Spinach Casserole: Stir in buffalo sauce for a spicy twist.
• Pesto Chicken Casserole: Mix in a couple of tablespoons of pesto for added depth.
• Keto Chicken Spinach Casserole: Reduce or omit the chicken broth and use full-fat dairy for a lower-carb version.
• Bacon Ranch Chicken Casserole: Add a teaspoon of ranch seasoning and extra bacon bits.
• Mexican-Inspired Chicken Casserole: Swap Italian seasoning for taco seasoning and add black beans.
• Creamy Tuscan Chicken Casserole: Include sun-dried tomatoes and swap Parmesan for Asiago cheese.
• Dairy-Free Chicken Casserole: Use dairy-free cream alternatives and vegan cheese.
• Gluten-Free Chicken Casserole: Ensure all ingredients are gluten-free and use a cornstarch slurry instead of flour for thickening.

Freezing and Storage for Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

• Freezing: This casserole freezes well! Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F for 40-45 minutes.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F or microwave in short intervals until warm.

Special Equipment for Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

Here are some helpful kitchen tools to make this recipe easier:

• Casserole Dish (9×13-inch) – Essential for baking and serving the casserole evenly.
• Large Skillet or Sauté Pan – Used for cooking the chicken, spinach, and creamy sauce before assembling.
• Mixing Bowls – Helps in mixing the ingredients like sauce, cheese, and seasonings efficiently.
• Whisk – Useful for smoothly combining cream-based sauces to prevent lumps.
• Cheese Grater – Handy for freshly grating cheese, which melts better than pre-shredded cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions for Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

1. Can I use frozen spinach?
   Yes! Just be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding it to the casserole.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
   Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
3. Can I substitute the heavy cream?
   Yes, you can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter option.
4. How do I make this casserole dairy-free?
   Use non-dairy cream alternatives and vegan cheese.
5. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
   Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well in this recipe.

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Conclusion

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that brings rich, cheesy goodness to every bite. With tender chicken, flavorful spinach, and a luscious creamy sauce, this casserole is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or any time you crave a satisfying meal.

Quick to prepare and easy to customize, this dish is sure to become a household favorite. Serve it on its own or pair it with your favorite sides for a well-rounded meal.

I’d love to see how your Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!