This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, creamy cheese, and nutrient-packed spinach in a delicious baked dish. The rich cream cheese, savory garlic, and Italian seasonings create a perfect balance of flavors, while mozzarella adds a gooey, cheesy top. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a cozy meal for guests, this casserole is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Prepare the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a portion of the Italian seasoning.Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet, allow it to cool slightly, and then slice or shred it into bite-sized pieces.
- Sauté the Spinach and Garlic: In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until aromatic. Then, add the fresh spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until it’s just wilted. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Creamy Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella (1/2 cup), and the optional Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy. Stir in the sautéed spinach and garlic, along with the remaining Italian seasoning. Mix well to combine.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the shredded or sliced chicken evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour the cream cheese and spinach mixture over the chicken, spreading it evenly. Top the casserole with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
- Serve: Once the casserole is golden and bubbling, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley if desired.
Conclusion
This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy goodness and tender chicken, complemented by the freshness of spinach. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner option or meal prep for the week, this casserole offers both flavor and convenience. Enjoy!