Description
This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for a family dinner. It features tender shredded chicken combined with sautéed spinach and a luscious cream cheese-based sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Easy to prepare and bake, this casserole delivers rich flavors and a satisfying texture that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2-3 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 4 cups fresh spinach (or 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Optional Additions
- Sliced mushrooms
- Artichoke hearts
- Cooked pasta
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Cook and shred your chicken if it’s not pre-cooked. Make sure the chicken is fully cooked and shredded into bite-sized pieces.
- Sauté the Spinach: If using fresh spinach, sauté it lightly in a pan until wilted. If using frozen spinach, make sure it is completely thawed and drained to remove excess moisture.
- Make the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, finely chopped onion, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if using. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Assemble the Casserole: Grease a casserole dish. Layer the shredded chicken, sautéed spinach, and creamy sauce together, mixing gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Add Cheese Topping: Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top of the assembled casserole.
- Bake: Place the casserole uncovered in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. It pairs well with a fresh salad, crusty bread, or rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese and mozzarella.
- You can add cooked pasta to the casserole for a more filling dish.
- Make sure to drain frozen spinach thoroughly to avoid a watery casserole.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
- Adding mushrooms or artichoke hearts will enhance the flavor and texture.
