Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

Looking for a comforting, creamy, and easy dinner? This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is the ultimate weeknight meal that combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich cream cheese sauce. Perfectly baked until golden and bubbly, this casserole is both hearty and satisfying, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or meal prep.

The creamy texture from the cream cheese blends beautifully with tender chunks of chicken and nutrient-packed spinach, creating a dish that is indulgent yet surprisingly simple to prepare. You don’t need any fancy ingredients or long hours in the kitchen—just a few staple ingredients and a baking dish are enough to make this delicious casserole.

This recipe is versatile too: you can swap in different veggies, add spices or herbs to taste, or even use rotisserie chicken to save time. The creamy, cheesy topping ensures that every bite is comforting and flavorful. Serve it with a side salad, garlic bread, or over rice for a complete meal.

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What Makes This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese Special?

• Rich and creamy flavor: The cream cheese makes the sauce luxuriously smooth.

• Packed with protein and greens: Tender chicken and spinach make it a balanced meal.

• Quick and easy preparation: Minimal chopping, simple assembly, ready in 40 minutes.

• Family-friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, perfect for weeknights.

• Customizable: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or spices for extra flavor.

Tip: Use pre-cooked chicken to reduce prep time to 15 minutes.

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Ingredient Notes

• Chicken breast or thighs: Cooked and diced; thighs provide extra juiciness.

• Fresh spinach: Adds nutrients and color; can use frozen, just squeeze excess water.

• Cream cheese: Provides creamy texture and flavor; soften before mixing.

• Shredded cheese: Cheddar or mozzarella works; melts perfectly on top.

• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic enhances flavor.

• Milk or cream: Adjusts sauce consistency; whole milk recommended for richness.

• Optional seasonings: Nutmeg, paprika, or Italian herbs for extra depth.

• Baking dish: 9×13-inch works best for even cooking.

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How To Make Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

1. Preheat oven
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

2. Cook chicken
   Dice 2-3 chicken breasts and cook in a skillet with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 2 minced garlic cloves, salt, and pepper until golden and cooked through (about 5–7 minutes).

3. Prepare sauce
   In a mixing bowl, combine 8 oz softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup milk, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and optional seasonings. Whisk until smooth.

4. Add spinach and chicken
   Mix cooked chicken and 2 cups fresh spinach into the cream cheese sauce. If using frozen spinach, thaw and squeeze excess water.

5. Assemble casserole
   Pour mixture into the greased baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheese evenly on top.

6. Bake
   Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden on top.

7. Serve
   Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Pro Tips:

• Avoid overcooking the chicken to prevent dryness.

• For extra flavor, sauté spinach with garlic before mixing with cream cheese.

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Storage Options

• Room Temperature: Serve fresh; do not leave out for more than 2 hours.

• Refrigeration: Store in airtight container up to 3 days.

• Freezing: Assemble casserole without topping cheese; freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F for 35–40 minutes.

• Reheating Tips: Microwave or bake at 350°F until warmed through; cover with foil to prevent drying.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetable variation: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or broccoli for extra nutrients.

• Cheese swap: Use Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or a mix of cheeses.

• Low-carb option: Skip any bread crumbs or serve over cauliflower rice.

• Herbs and spices: Add Italian seasoning, paprika, or nutmeg for unique flavors.

• Alternative proteins: Use rotisserie chicken or turkey for convenience.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen spinach?
   Yes, thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding.

2. Can this be made ahead of time?
   Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

3. Is it possible to make this dairy-free?
   Use dairy-free cream cheese and shredded cheese alternatives.

4. What can I serve it with?
   Garlic bread, steamed rice, or a fresh salad.

5. Can I use leftover chicken?
   Absolutely, this is a great recipe to use up cooked chicken.

6. How do I prevent the casserole from being watery?
   Remove excess water from spinach and avoid overcooking before baking.

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