Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe

Introduction

Are you looking for a comforting and delicious meal that’s easy to prepare? Look no further than this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole. This dish features tender chicken, fresh spinach, and creamy cheese, all baked to perfection. It’s a great option for weeknight dinners or feeding a crowd, and it pairs wonderfully with a simple salad or bread.

Why Make This Recipe

There are plenty of reasons to try this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole. First, it’s packed with flavor, thanks to the combination of creamy cheeses, savory chicken, and vibrant spinach. It’s also very customizable—add your favorite vegetables or noodles to make it your own. Plus, this casserole is a great way to use up leftover chicken, making it a practical choice for busy cooks.

How to Make Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

Follow these straightforward steps to whip up your own delicious casserole.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 oz egg noodles (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a large bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, chicken broth, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
3. Combine Ingredients: Stir in the shredded chicken, chopped spinach, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese.
4. Cook the Noodles (if using): If you choose to add egg noodles, cook them according to the package instructions, then fold them into the mixture.
5. Assemble the Casserole: Pour the chicken mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
6. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.
7. Serve: Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

Once your casserole is ready, serve it warm. This dish pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. You can also garnish it with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor and presentation.

How to Store Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

To keep your casserole fresh, let it cool completely before storing. Place leftover casserole in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it; just make sure to cover it tightly and consume it within 2 months.

Tips to Make Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

• Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is an excellent way to use up rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in other greens like kale or veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
• Make it Ahead: Prepare the casserole a day in advance and bake it just before serving for a hassle-free meal.

Variations

• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute egg noodles with gluten-free pasta or cauliflower rice for a gluten-free version.
• Cheesier Casserole: Add more cheese by incorporating different types like cheddar or gouda to the mixed filling.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! You can replace the chicken with cooked chickpeas or tofu for a hearty vegetarian option.

2. How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the cheese on top is melted and golden brown, and the sides are bubbly.

3. Can I use frozen spinach?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the mixture to avoid excess moisture.

With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and ease of preparation, this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try tonight!

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

A comforting and delicious casserole featuring tender chicken, fresh spinach, and creamy cheese, perfect for weeknight dinners or feeding a crowd.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded Use leftover cooked chicken for convenience.
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped Can use frozen spinach; thaw and drain thoroughly.
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 oz egg noodles (optional) Can substitute with gluten-free pasta if desired.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, chicken broth, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
3. Stir in the shredded chicken, chopped spinach, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese.
4. If using egg noodles, cook them according to package instructions, then fold into the mixture.

Assembly and Cooking

1. Pour the chicken mixture into a greased baking dish.
2. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
3. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.

Serving

1. Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

This casserole pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or garlic bread. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor and presentation. To store, let it cool completely before placing leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.