If you’re craving a dish that brings comfort, creaminess, and a splash of greens all in one, then you have to try this Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese. It’s everything you want in a meal: tender, juicy chicken wrapped in a velvety blanket of spinach and cream cheese, crowned with golden, gooey mozzarella that pulls apart with every bite. This recipe is a true lifesaver on hectic evenings because it’s straightforward yet so indulgent, with flavors that feel special enough to serve to guests but easy enough for any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of simple ingredients is all it takes to whip up this cozy casserole. Each element plays a key role—from the rich creaminess of the softened cream cheese to the freshness of sautéed spinach, balanced by tender chicken and a mix of flavorful cheeses that create the perfect texture and color contrast.
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Pounded thin for quicker cooking and even tenderness throughout your casserole.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Divided use to both marinate and sauté spinach, adding richness and depth.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with savory aroma and flavor that enhances every bite.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A classic herb blend that gives the chicken a Mediterranean-inspired kick.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Just enough to bring out the natural flavors without overpowering the dish.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds mild warmth and balances the richness of the cheeses.
- 2 cups fresh spinach: Provides a vibrant green color and nutritional goodness while brightening the casserole’s flavor.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: The star of the show, creating that irresistible creamy texture.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: Melted on top for gooey stretchiness and mixed inside for melty consistency.
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, optional: Adds a nutty, salty punch that deepens the cheese flavor complexity.
How to Make Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Then, cut each chicken breast horizontally to create four thin cutlets. Pounding any thicker parts of the chicken ensures they cook evenly and stay tender, setting you up for perfect results.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Mix 1 tablespoon of olive oil with minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to create a vibrant marinade. Toss the chicken cutlets in this flavorful mixture, cover, and pop it in the fridge for 15 to 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it infuses the chicken with aromatic herbs and mild spice, transforming simple chicken into something truly mouthwatering.
Step 3: Sauté the Spinach
While the chicken marinates, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add fresh spinach and cook just until wilted, about 2 to 3 minutes. This quick sauté softens the spinach perfectly without losing its bright color and nutrients, ready to be mixed into the creamy layer of the casserole.
Step 4: Combine Cream Cheese and Cheeses with Spinach
In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth, then gently fold in the sautéed spinach along with ½ cup shredded mozzarella and optional Parmesan cheese. This mixture will add creamy, cheesy richness to balance the chicken’s savory flavor and give the casserole its signature indulgent texture.
Step 5: Optional Sear for Extra Flavor
If you want a little extra depth to your Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese, quickly sear the marinated chicken cutlets in a hot skillet for 1 to 2 minutes on each side. This step is optional but adds a lovely golden crust and smoky flavor that takes the dish to the next level.
Step 6: Assemble the Casserole
Arrange the chicken cutlets evenly in the prepared baking dish, then generously spread the creamy spinach and cheese mixture over the top. Finish by sprinkling the remaining mozzarella evenly across the casserole to create a bubbly, golden topping as it bakes.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the cheese has melted into a beautifully bubbly, lightly browned topping. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving—this brief pause lets all those delicious juices settle and makes cutting much easier.
How to Serve Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese
Garnishes
Adding garnishes to your casserole is a fun way to brighten the plate and add contrast in texture and flavor. Try sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or basil over the top for a burst of herbaceous freshness. A light drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also elevate the dish, giving it a restaurant-worthy look and taste.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines as a complete meal, but pairing it with simple sides can round out the experience delightfully. A crisp mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly, or perhaps some roasted garlic-seasoned potatoes add a heartier touch. For a gluten-free option, steamed rice or quinoa are excellent companions that soak up the creamy sauce beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive gathering, try serving this Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese in individual ramekins or small baking dishes. This presentation ensures everyone gets their cheesy, creamy share while looking elegant. Alternatively, layering this casserole in a clear glass dish showcases the beautiful colors and textures, making your dinner table instantly inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or transfer them to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. The casserole keeps well for about 3 to 4 days, maintaining its flavor and creaminess when reheated gently.
Freezing
This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese freezes beautifully, making it a perfect candidate for meal prepping. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or freeze the whole casserole dish if it’s ovenproof. For best quality, consume within 2 to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, gently reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again. You can also microwave individual portions, but take care to heat slowly to avoid drying out the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh in the casserole?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and squeeze out as much moisture as possible before mixing it with the cream cheese. This prevents the casserole from becoming watery and keeps the flavors concentrated.
Is this casserole suitable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat-based ingredients. Just be sure to check that all seasonings and cheeses are labeled gluten-free if you have a strict intolerance.
Can I substitute other cheeses for mozzarella?
Definitely. Cheeses like cheddar, fontina, or Monterey Jack work wonderfully for melting. You can even mix varieties to add depth to the flavor. Just remember that some cheeses melt differently, altering the texture slightly.
How can I make this casserole spicier?
For a spicy kick, add crushed red pepper flakes to the chicken marinade or sprinkle some cayenne pepper into the cream cheese mixture. A sliced jalapeño or a dollop of hot sauce on the side can also amp up the heat to your liking.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
You can easily make a vegetarian version by swapping the chicken for hearty vegetables like zucchini slices, eggplant, or portobello mushrooms. The creamy spinach and cheese layers will still provide plenty of richness and flavor.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely believe this Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese will become one of your go-to meals when you want something comforting yet fuss-free. With its creamy texture, vibrant spinach, and tender chicken, it’s truly a dish that delivers both on flavor and ease. Give it a try on your next busy evening—you’ll be so happy to have this gem ready and waiting in your kitchen.
PrintChicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese
This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is a creamy, indulgent, and satisfying main dish perfect for busy weeknights. Featuring tender chicken breasts marinated with garlic and Italian seasoning, sautéed fresh spinach blended with rich cream cheese, and topped with gooey mozzarella and optional Parmesan cheese, this casserole offers rich flavors and a comforting texture. Easy to prepare and ideal for meal prep, it can be customized with different cheeses or vegetables to suit your taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Courses
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
Spinach and Cheese Mixture
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and baking dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the chicken cutlets: Cut each chicken breast horizontally in half to create four thin cutlets. Pound the thicker ends gently to ensure even thickness for uniform cooking.
- Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Toss the chicken cutlets in this marinade, cover the bowl, and refrigerate for 15–30 minutes to enhance flavor.
- Sauté the spinach: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the fresh spinach and cook for 2–3 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Mix the cheese and spinach filling: In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Fold in the sautéed spinach, ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese if using. Stir thoroughly to combine.
- Optional sear for added flavor: For extra taste, heat the skillet and sear the marinated chicken cutlets for 1–2 minutes on each side until lightly browned.
- Assemble the casserole: Arrange the chicken cutlets evenly in the greased baking dish. Spread the cream cheese and spinach mixture evenly over the chicken. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake the casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
- Rest and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow flavors to settle before serving.
Notes
- For a lower-fat version, use reduced-fat cream cheese and part-skim mozzarella.
- You can substitute fresh spinach with frozen spinach; just be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before using.
- To change up the flavor, try adding sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to the spinach mixture.
- If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can omit it or replace it with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.