Creamy Chicken And Spinach Casserole Recipe

The Best Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe Ever

Comfort arrives in a bubbling dish of creamy chicken and spinach casserole that promises pure satisfaction.

This hearty meal combines tender chicken with vibrant green spinach in a rich, velvety sauce.

Layers of flavor meld together, creating a perfect balance of protein and greens.

Weeknight dinners demand something special, and this casserole delivers with its warm, inviting essence.

Home cooks adore how quickly it comes together, needing just a few simple ingredients.

Cheese adds a golden, melty top that makes every bite irresistible.

Serve this crowd-pleasing casserole and watch as everyone asks for seconds.

Steps for Creamy Chicken Spinach Bake

Step 1: Prep Your Cooking Space

Get your oven warmed up to 375°F.

Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a light coating of cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create The Creamy Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, blend together your sauce ingredients:
  • Cream of chicken soup
  • Sour cream
  • Mayonnaise
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Stir these ingredients until they’re smoothly combined.

Step 3: Add Protein And Greens

Fold into the creamy mixture:
  • Shredded chicken
  • Fresh spinach
  • Mozzarella cheese

Mix everything until the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the sauce.

Step 4: Transfer To Baking Dish

Pour the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula to ensure a consistent layer.

Step 5: Add Crunchy Topping (Optional)

Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle this golden mixture across the top of the casserole for extra texture.

Step 6: Bake To Perfection

Slide the casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes.

You’re looking for a bubbly center and a golden-brown top.

Step 7: Rest And Serve

Pull the casserole out of the oven and let it sit for a few minutes.

This helps the dish set and makes serving easier.

Sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor if you’d like.

Tips for Cheesy, Luscious Casserole

  • Add extra shredded rotisserie chicken or diced grilled chicken for a more protein-packed meal that keeps you full longer.
  • Swap traditional breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko or crushed rice crackers to accommodate gluten-sensitive diets without losing the crunchy topping.
  • Experiment with additional vegetables like diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to increase nutritional value and add more texture to the casserole.
  • Replace full-fat sour cream and mayonnaise with Greek yogurt and low-fat alternatives to reduce calories without sacrificing creamy flavor.

Variations for Chicken and Spinach Casserole

  • Low-Carb Cauliflower Swap: Replace chicken with cauliflower florets and use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs for a keto-friendly version.
  • Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute cream of chicken soup with coconut cream, use dairy-free cheese, and replace sour cream with cashew cream.
  • Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas, and use vegetable soup instead of cream of chicken soup for a plant-based meal.
  • Mediterranean Remix: Add sun-dried tomatoes, swap mozzarella for feta cheese, and sprinkle with oregano for a Greek-inspired casserole.

Plating Creamy Chicken Spinach Bake

  • Family Dinner Delight: Serve this casserole as a hearty main dish with a side of warm, crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
  • Healthy Side Companions: Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli to balance the rich, creamy texture.
  • Brunch Bonus: Slice into portions and serve alongside scrambled eggs and fresh fruit for a satisfying weekend brunch option that everyone will love.
  • Leftover Magic: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven, and enjoy as a quick lunch wrapped in a tortilla or served over rice for a different meal experience.

Storing Chicken Spinach Casserole

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cool the casserole completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
  • Transfer portions to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Label with the date and contents. Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
  • Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Place casserole in a baking dish, cover with foil to prevent burning. Warm for 15-20 minutes until heated through, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture if needed.

FAQs

  • Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Thaw it completely and squeeze out excess water before adding to the mixture to prevent the casserole from becoming watery.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not automatically. Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the recipe gluten-free. Check all ingredient labels carefully.

  • Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.

Creamy Chicken and Spinach, Oven-Baked Comfort

  • Whip Up Quick Comfort: Minimal ingredients and simple steps make this casserole a breeze to prepare, perfect for busy home cooks craving a delicious meal without complex techniques.
  • Packed with Nutrition: Loaded with protein-rich chicken and nutrient-dense spinach, this dish offers a balanced meal that satisfies hunger and supports healthy eating goals.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Versatility: Adaptable for family dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings, this creamy casserole appeals to both kids and adults with its comforting flavors and cheesy goodness.
  • Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients or add extra toppings to personalize the recipe, making it a flexible option for different taste preferences and dietary needs.

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

Main Protein:
  • Shredded Chicken: A tender and juicy protein that provides the primary substance of the casserole.
Creamy Base Ingredients:
  • Cream of Chicken Soup, Sour Cream, Mayonnaise: These ingredients create a rich and smooth sauce that binds the casserole together and adds deep flavor.
Flavor Enhancers and Seasonings:
  • Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Salt, Pepper: These seasonings add depth and complexity to the overall taste of the dish.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: A melty cheese that provides a stretchy and creamy texture to the casserole.
Additional Components:
  • Spinach: A nutritious green vegetable that adds color and earthy flavor to the casserole.
  • Breadcrumbs, Butter: These create a crispy and golden topping that adds a delightful crunch to the dish.
  • Fresh Parsley: An optional garnish that brings a fresh and bright finish to the casserole.
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Creamy Chicken And Spinach Casserole Recipe

Creamy Chicken And Spinach Casserole Recipe


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4.8 from 21 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Rich, comforting chicken and spinach casserole brings classic Southern comfort to dinner tables with its cheesy, hearty layers. Savory ingredients meld perfectly, creating a crowd-pleasing meal you’ll want to share with family and friends.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed

Vegetables:

  • 4 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

Dairy and Cheese:

  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Seasonings and Spices:

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Topping:

  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter

Oil:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Warm the oven to 375°F and coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
  2. Create a creamy base by whisking together the soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, and seasonings until smooth and well-blended.
  3. Fold the shredded chicken, chopped spinach, and shredded mozzarella into the creamy mixture, ensuring all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
  4. Transfer the combined ingredients to the prepared baking dish, spreading the mixture evenly to create a consistent layer.
  5. If desired, toss breadcrumbs with melted butter to create a crispy topping, then sprinkle generously over the casserole surface.
  6. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, watching for a golden-brown crust and bubbling edges that indicate the dish is heated through.
  7. Once cooked, remove from the oven and allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes, which helps the ingredients set and makes serving easier.
  8. Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and added freshness before serving.

Notes

  • Swap regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives for celiac or gluten-sensitive individuals to maintain the casserole’s crispy texture.
  • Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream to reduce fat content and add extra protein, creating a lighter version of the dish.
  • Incorporate additional vegetables like diced bell peppers or mushrooms to boost nutritional value and add more depth to the flavor profile.
  • Prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate, allowing flavors to meld together, then bake when ready to serve for enhanced taste and convenience.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 414 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 490 mg
  • Fat: 27 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 11 g
  • Fiber: 1.5 g
  • Protein: 36 g
  • Cholesterol: 115 mg
Michael Reyes

Michael Reyes

Founder & Lead Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Southwestern and Latin American cuisine
  • Developing easy single-serving recipes
  • Food styling and food photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Practical, hands-on learning in essential kitchen skills, including food safety, hygiene, knife techniques, and kitchen organization.

Michael’s love for cooking runs deep, rooted in the bold, colorful flavors of his New Mexico upbringing.
After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Santa Fe Community College, he spent years sharpening his skills in kitchens that celebrated traditional Southwestern and Latin American dishes.
He believes cooking should feel approachable and fun, never complicated. When he’s not stirring up new recipe ideas, Michael’s out hiking scenic trails, chatting with farmers at local markets, or chasing the perfect sunset shot for inspiration.

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