Name: Chicken and Spinach Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped; 4 cups fresh spinach or 10 oz frozen spinach (thawed and drained); 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt; 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese, divided; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, chopped; 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter; Salt and pepper, to taste; Optional: 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese; Optional: 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; Optional: crushed red pepper flakes, to taste

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the perfect balance of protein, greens, and creamy goodness. It’s a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters enjoy, and it’s easy to customize based on what you have on hand. It’s freezer-friendly, reheats beautifully, and is a great way to use up leftover chicken. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, Chicken and Spinach Casserole is always a smart, delicious choice.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cooked chicken (shredded or chopped)
Fresh or frozen spinach (thawed and drained if frozen)
Cream cheese
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
Garlic, minced
Onion, chopped
Olive oil or butter
Salt and pepper
Optional: grated parmesan, crushed red pepper, or breadcrumbs for topping

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic until fragrant and softened.
Add the spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted (if using fresh) or heated through (if using frozen). Season with salt and pepper.
In a large bowl, mix the cooked chicken, softened cream cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt, and half of the shredded cheese. Stir in the spinach mixture until combined.
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread evenly.
Top with the remaining shredded cheese, and sprinkle with optional parmesan or breadcrumbs for added texture.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Low-Carb/Keto: Skip breadcrumbs and use full-fat dairy options.
Add Pasta or Rice: Stir in cooked pasta or rice before baking for a more filling casserole.
Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with white beans or a plant-based meat alternative.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mix.
Add More Veggies: Mix in mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for added texture and flavor.
Different Cheeses: Try gouda, Swiss, or Monterey Jack for a new twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, place a portion in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
For freezing, wrap the casserole tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake until hot.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option and adds extra flavor to the dish.

Should I cook fresh spinach before adding it to the casserole?

Yes, sauté fresh spinach briefly to remove excess moisture and ensure a smooth texture.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

How do I keep the casserole from being watery?

Drain the spinach thoroughly and avoid overloading with high-moisture vegetables.

Is it okay to use frozen spinach?

Yes, just make sure it’s fully thawed and well-drained to avoid excess moisture.

What can I serve with Chicken and Spinach Casserole?

Serve with a fresh green salad, crusty bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I use dairy-free alternatives?

Yes, use plant-based cream cheese, yogurt, and cheese to make it dairy-free.

Can I add eggs to make it more like a breakfast bake?

Yes, you can add beaten eggs for a breakfast-style casserole—just reduce other wet ingredients slightly.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

While it’s best baked, you can warm the mixture in a slow cooker on low for 2–3 hours after assembling.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double all ingredients and use a larger baking dish. Adjust baking time by 5–10 minutes if needed.

Conclusion

Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a creamy, cheesy comfort dish that’s both satisfying and nourishing. With its flexible ingredients, ease of preparation, and delicious flavor, it’s a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping meals for the week, this casserole is always a smart and tasty choice.

Chicken and Spinach Casserole

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Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a creamy, cheesy baked dish made with tender chicken, spinach, and a rich, flavorful sauce. It’s comforting, easy to prepare, and great for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Category: Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic until fragrant and softened.
Add the spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted (if using fresh) or heated through (if using frozen). Season with salt and pepper.
In a large bowl, mix the cooked chicken, softened cream cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt, and half of the shredded cheese.
Stir in the spinach mixture until fully combined.
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread evenly.
Top with the remaining shredded cheese and sprinkle with optional parmesan or breadcrumbs.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use well-drained spinach to avoid a watery casserole.
Rotisserie chicken works great for convenience.
Add cooked pasta or rice for a heartier dish.
Try different cheeses like gouda or Swiss for variation.
To make dairy-free, use plant-based cream cheese, yogurt, and cheese.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion (about 1/6 of casserole)
Calories: 410
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 520mg
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 105mg