Bringing comforting, home-cooked meals to the table can feel especially rewarding when they deliver familiar flavors without extra effort. This chicken and spinach casserole with cream cheese fits right into that space, offering a rich, creamy texture and a baked finish that feels indulgent while still being practical for everyday cooking.
This dish stands out for its balance of comfort and satisfaction. The creamy interior paired with a golden, bubbly cheese topping creates a warm, inviting meal that feels complete and filling. With spinach folded into every bite, it manages to feel hearty and comforting at the same time.
Another reason this casserole works so well is how approachable it is. It’s designed for busy schedules, coming together quickly and baking into a meal that doesn’t require constant attention. That ease makes it a reliable option for weeknights when time is limited but a homemade dinner still matters.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole
This chicken and spinach casserole is also a dependable choice for sharing. It works just as well for family dinners as it does for gatherings, where cheesy baked dishes are often the first to disappear. The familiar flavors appeal to a wide range of tastes, making it especially family-friendly.
There’s also plenty of flexibility built into this recipe. It can be prepared ahead of time to simplify meal planning, and it easily adapts to different preferences using ingredients already on hand. That versatility makes it a casserole worth keeping in regular rotation, whether cooking for a household or bringing a dish to share.
Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole
Bringing comforting, home-cooked meals to the table can feel especially rewarding when they deliver familiar flavors without extra effort. This chicken and spinach casserole with cream cheese fits right into that space, offering a rich, creamy texture and a baked finish that feels indulgent while still being practical for everyday cooking.
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
- 1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1⁄2 cup Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Set aside. Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to make four cutlets, then gently pound the thicker ends so all pieces are an even thickness. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and toss until well coated. Cover and refrigerate for 15–30 minutes.
- Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the spinach and cook, stirring often, until just wilted, about 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Stir in the cooked spinach, ½ cup mozzarella, and Parmesan if using, mixing until fully combined.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. If desired, quickly sear the chicken in the skillet for 1–2 minutes per side. Arrange the chicken in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Spread the spinach and cream cheese mixture evenly over the chicken, then sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 20–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and lightly golden. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
- Use chicken cutlets for this recipe. They’re already sliced and typically an even thickness, which saves time and eliminates the need for extra prep.
- If using frozen spinach, thaw it completely and squeeze out as much liquid as possible to prevent the casserole from becoming watery.
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