If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is about to become your new favorite. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken and vibrant spinach, this casserole brings together simple ingredients into a delightful medley of flavors and textures. The golden, bubbly cheese crust on top seals the deal, making every bite feel indulgent yet wholesome. It’s an easy-to-make baked dish that works beautifully for family dinners, meal prep, or impressing friends with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese plays a role in creating a rich, balanced flavor and texture profile. From savory chicken to fresh spinach and luscious cream cheese, these pantry staples transform into something truly special when combined.
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The hearty protein base that soaks up all the creamy goodness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided: Adds moisture and helps tenderize the chicken and wilt the spinach perfectly.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a fragrant, savory depth to the marinade and overall dish.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: Brings aromatic herbs that tie together the flavors seamlessly.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Essential seasonings to brighten and enhance every bite.
- 2 cups fresh spinach: Offers a pop of color and nutrition with a tender texture when cooked.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: The star ingredient that creates the casserole’s luxuriously creamy texture.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: Brings melty, gooey goodness both inside the casserole and beautifully browned on top.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a subtle nuttiness and extra depth if you want to take it to the next level.
How to Make Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese
Step 1: Prepare and Marinate the Chicken
Start by prepping your oven to 400°F and greasing your baking dish so the casserole won’t stick. Slice the chicken breasts horizontally to create cutlets and even out their thickness — this ensures every piece cooks uniformly and stays juicy. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful marinade. Coat the chicken evenly with the marinade, cover, and chill for at least 15 minutes. This step guarantees each bite is tasty and well-seasoned.
Step 2: Cook the Spinach
While the chicken marinates, heat olive oil in a skillet and add fresh spinach. Stir frequently until it wilts down — this only takes a few minutes. Cooking the spinach removes excess moisture and concentrates its flavor, making sure your casserole won’t be watery but instead full of vibrant, tender greens.
Step 3: Mix the Cream Cheese Filling
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and fluffy. Stir in the wilted spinach along with half of your mozzarella and the optional Parmesan. This creamy mixture is the heart of the casserole, marrying all the rich flavors and creating that beautiful, luscious texture that defines Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off. You can sear the cutlets quickly in the skillet for 1-2 minutes per side if you want a slight golden crust and extra flavor. Layer the chicken in your baking dish, then spread the spinach and cream cheese mixture evenly on top. Finish with the remaining mozzarella cheese sprinkled over everything. Bake for 20 to 30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese on top is bubbly and lightly browned. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving, so all those delicious flavors settle perfectly.
How to Serve Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese
Garnishes
Adding a few fresh garnishes can elevate this casserole from comforting to show-stopping. Try sprinkling some chopped fresh basil or parsley to add a lively herbal brightness and contrast to the creamy richness. A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a few crushed red pepper flakes can also add a lovely touch of aroma and subtle heat.
Side Dishes
This casserole does well as a hearty main but pairs effortlessly with simple sides. A crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the rich cream cheese perfectly, balancing the meal. Roasted root vegetables or garlic mashed potatoes are wonderful options to soak up any extra cheesy sauce lurking on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more festive touch, serve this Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese in individual ramekins or small baking dishes for personal servings. You could also layer it over a bed of cooked quinoa or rice for a complete one-dish meal that’s both satisfying and elegant. If you’re bringing it to a potluck, garnish with extra herbs and a sprinkle of parmesan just before serving to make it really pop.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keeping it chilled well helps maintain the creamy texture of the dish and preserves its fresh flavors. When storing, try to separate portions with parchment paper to easily grab just the amount you want later.
Freezing
This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese freezes beautifully. Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil or use freezer-safe containers. Stored properly, it will keep for up to 2 months, making it an excellent make-ahead option. Be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture retention.
Reheating
To reheat, place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. This method preserves the creamy texture and crispy cheese topping far better than a microwave. If you need to microwave, cover loosely and heat in short increments to avoid drying out the chicken or curdling the cheese.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw it fully and squeeze out as much excess liquid as possible before adding to the cream cheese mixture. This prevents your casserole from getting watery and helps maintain that perfect creamy consistency.
Is this casserole low-carb friendly?
Yes, this Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese fits well into a low-carb lifestyle as it focuses on protein, healthy fats, and leafy greens without added starches or grains.
Can I substitute the chicken breasts with another protein?
Feel free to swap in chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier, slightly fattier option. Turkey cutlets could work too. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the meat is fully cooked.
How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, use dairy-free cream cheese alternatives and vegan shredded cheese. Keep in mind the texture and flavor will vary slightly, but it will still be delicious and creamy.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even artichoke hearts make wonderful additions. Just be mindful of their moisture content and cook them well beforehand to avoid excess liquid in the casserole.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is truly a game changer for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike. It’s one of those dishes that feels luxurious yet is surprisingly simple to pull together. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again, sharing it as a homemade comfort classic with loved ones. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to this irresistibly creamy, cheesy delight!
PrintChicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese
This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is a creamy, comforting main course perfect for family dinners. Tender chicken breasts are marinated with garlic and Italian seasoning, paired with wilted spinach blended into cream cheese, and topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan for a golden, bubbly finish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low-Carb
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 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
Spinach and Cheese Mixture
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray and set aside.
- Prepare Chicken Cutlets: Cut each chicken breast in half horizontally to create four cutlets. Pound the thicker ends to make all pieces an even thickness for uniform cooking.
- Marinate Chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add cut chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to absorb flavors.
- Cook Spinach: Heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the fresh spinach and cook, stirring frequently, until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Make Cream Cheese Spinach Mixture: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Mix in the wilted spinach, 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese if using, until combined smoothly.
- Sear Chicken (Optional): Remove chicken from marinade and let excess drip off. For added flavor and texture, sear each piece in the skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes per side until lightly browned. This step is optional but recommended.
- Assemble Casserole: Arrange the chicken cutlets in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Spread the cream cheese and spinach mixture evenly over the chicken. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 20-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F) and the cheese on top is melted and lightly browned.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes after removing it from the oven to let the flavors settle. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy chicken and spinach casserole!
Notes
- Use pre-cut chicken cutlets for quicker preparation and even cooking.
- If using frozen spinach, thaw completely and squeeze out the excess moisture to prevent a watery casserole.