Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese: A Wholesome Meal in Under an Hour
Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken and nutritious spinach, all enveloped in a creamy cheese mixture. Perfect for busy weeknights, this casserole can be prepared in about 45 minutes and is sure to satisfy the whole family.
Why you’ll love it
This recipe is not just delicious; it’s packed with benefits. The chicken provides a great source of protein, while spinach adds essential vitamins and minerals. The cream cheese and mozzarella give it a rich, creamy texture that elevates the flavor. Plus, it’s a one-dish meal, which means less cleanup for you. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this casserole is a win-win for any weeknight dinner.
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
Substitutions & Key Variations
You can substitute chicken with turkey or even cooked shredded beef for a heartier casserole. If you’re looking for a lower-calorie option, consider using a reduced-fat cream cheese. For a kick of flavor, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture. If you are lactose intolerant, plant-based cream cheese and vegan cheese can work just as well!
Step-by-step
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Chicken
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to create four thin cutlets. Don’t forget to pound the thicker ends to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, mix together 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken cutlets into the marinade, cover the bowl, and let it sit in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes. This will allow the chicken to absorb all the flavors.
Step 3: Cook the Spinach
In a skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the fresh spinach and sauté for 2-3 minutes, just until it wilts. Once done, take it off the heat and set it aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s fluffy. Stir in the wilted spinach and 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese. If you’re using Parmesan cheese, mix that in as well.
Step 5: Sear the Chicken (Optional)
For extra flavor, you can sear the marinated chicken in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes on each side. This step is optional but adds a nice golden crust.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Arrange the chicken cutlets in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the creamy spinach mixture over the chicken and then top it off with the remaining mozzarella cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This makes it easier to slice and serve.
Success Tips
- Make sure your chicken is evenly cut for uniform cooking.
- Avoid overbaking, as this can dry out the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- If you want a crusty top, consider broiling it for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Just watch it closely!
How to Serve
This casserole is great on its own, but you can pair it with a crisp salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Serve it warm, and enjoy the creamy goodness!
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I freeze the Chicken and Spinach Casserole?
Yes! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
2. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture from the frozen spinach before adding it to the cream cheese mixture.
3. What can I serve with this casserole?
A simple green salad or garlic bread works wonderfully to complement this dish!
4. Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, it’s great for meal prep! You can easily portion it into meal containers for a week’s worth of lunches.
5. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and bake it just before serving.
Nutrition Notes / Equivalents
This dish supplies a good balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. For a healthier twist, you can replace cream cheese with Greek yogurt, which will also boost the protein content.
Conclusion
Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is a simple yet satisfying dish that combines flavor and nutrition in a delightful way. Perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a delicious meal!
Links to Related Recipes
- Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
- Creamy Chicken Alfredo Bake
- Broccoli and Cheese Chicken Bake
Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to create four thin cutlets. Pound the thicker ends to ensure even cooking.
- In a bowl, mix together 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken cutlets to the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes.
Cooking the Spinach and Cheese Mixture
- In a skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the fresh spinach and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it wilts. Set aside.
- In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until fluffy. Stir in the wilted spinach and 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese. Add Parmesan cheese if using.
Assembly and Baking
- Arrange the chicken cutlets in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread the creamy spinach mixture over the chicken and top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes, until the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) internally and the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
Serving
- Allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes before serving.