If cozy, crowd-pleasing comfort food sounds like your idea of a perfect dinner, then this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is about to become your new weeknight hero. Juicy shredded chicken, vibrant spinach, and a blanket of gooey cheese come together in a sensationally creamy sauce—each bite is a warming blend of flavors and textures that never fails to satisfy. Whether you’re feeding family or friends, this casserole brings ease and goodness straight to your dinner table with fuss-free prep and absolutely irresistible results.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, everyday staples means you’re already halfway to a fantastic Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole. Each ingredient has a starring role, delivering savory depth, luscious texture, or a pop of color—making this dish both satisfying and supremely straightforward.
- Cooked shredded chicken breast: Use leftover roast or rotisserie chicken for ultra-tender, flavorful meat without extra work.
- Olive oil: Just a splash helps sauté the veggies to mellow, aromatic perfection.
- Yellow onion (diced): This brings subtle sweetness and a golden base to the casserole’s savory notes.
- Garlic (minced): Adds a fragrant punch that lifts the entire flavor profile.
- Fresh spinach (chopped): For a pop of green and earthy freshness that makes every forkful a little brighter.
- Cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz can): This classic shortcut brings savory, velvety richness with minimal effort.
- Sour cream: Adds an irresistible tang and luxuriously creamy texture to the sauce.
- Milk: Lightens the sauce just enough while keeping the casserole moist and tender.
- Italian seasoning: A perfect blend of herbs that gives the dish its savory depth and “can’t-stop-eating” aroma.
- Salt: Brightens every other flavor so nothing gets lost in the mix.
- Black pepper: A dash for background warmth and subtle kick.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into that signature gooey, stringy cheese pull everyone loves.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Delivers nutty, salty finish and beautiful browning on top.
- Cooked pasta or rice (optional): Bulk it up for heartier meals or to stretch servings—try short pasta shapes or fluffy white rice!
- Nonstick cooking spray: Keeps the whole thing from sticking, making serving and cleanup a breeze.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F; a hot oven guarantees bubbly, golden perfection. Mist a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray so your Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole lifts out easily and every bite makes it to your plate.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium. Add your diced onion and let it cook until it turns soft and translucent—about 3–4 minutes, stirring to avoid any brown edges. Add the minced garlic and let it sizzle for just 30 seconds; you want it fragrant, not burnt! Toss in the chopped spinach next, stir, and cook just until it wilts into tender, bright-green ribbons.
Step 3: Mix Up the Filling
In a big bowl, combine your cooked shredded chicken, the sautéed veggies, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. If you’re adding cooked pasta or rice, toss it in now. Stir this all together until you’ve got a creamy, hearty mixture with plenty of color from the spinach.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour your chicken and spinach mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly right to the edges. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese generously over the top, then finish with a scatter of Parmesan for extra flavor and the perfect cheesy crust.
Step 5: Bake to Bubbly Perfection
Slide your casserole into the oven. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and golden brown and the sides are beautifully bubbly. Pull it out and let it rest for 5 minutes—this helps the layers set and makes serving a breeze.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole
Garnishes
For a fresh, vibrant finish on your Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole, sprinkle on a little fresh parsley or extra grated Parmesan just before serving. A swirl of cracked black pepper or a few chili flakes bring subtle heat and color, making each serving look as tasty as it smells.
Side Dishes
This casserole really shines with simple sides that complement its rich, creamy flavors. Try a crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, or warm, crusty bread for soaking up every last bit of sauce. If you skipped adding pasta or rice to the casserole, serve it alongside to make a heartier, more filling meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, spoon the casserole into individual ramekins or mini baking dishes for adorable, bubbly portions. If you’re hosting a potluck, serve straight from the skillet for a rustic family-style feel. You can even tuck portions into puff pastry or bake it inside bell peppers for a fun, surprise twist on traditional Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers keep beautifully in an airtight container, refrigerated for up to four days. The flavors actually meld and deepen overnight, so your next meal might be even better than the first!
Freezing
To freeze, simply cool your Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole completely, then wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil or portion into freezer-safe containers. It keeps well for up to three months, ready to rescue your busiest days.
Reheating
For best results, reheat your casserole in a 350°F oven (covered with foil) until heated through, which keeps that luscious topping perfectly melty. If you’re in a hurry, microwaving individual portions works well, but be sure to cover and stir halfway so everything heats evenly.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooked chicken breast?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds flavor and keeps prep simple. Just shred it and mix it right in for even more savory goodness.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes—just use gluten-free pasta or serve over cooked rice, and be sure to pick a cream of chicken soup that’s certified gluten-free. You’ll have a hearty, wheat-free Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole in no time.
Can I substitute the sour cream for a lighter option?
Greek yogurt makes a great stand-in for sour cream, lending creaminess and a slight tang while cutting back on calories. Your casserole will still be ultra-rich and delicious.
What veggies can I add to change things up?
Feel free to toss in mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or frozen peas for extra flavor and color. The casserole is wonderfully adaptable, so use up whatever’s in your fridge!
Can I assemble the casserole ahead and bake later?
Definitely. Mix everything, spread it in your baking dish, and cover tightly. Store in the fridge for up to 24 hours, then bake it off when you’re ready for fresh, hot Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving an easy, heartwarming dinner that brings everyone running to the table, this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole will not disappoint. It’s a dish that always delivers on comfort, even on the busiest nights, and becomes a favorite in no time. Give it a try, and one bite will convince you—delicious can be absolutely effortless!
Print
Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole, a wholesome and filling dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a creamy sauce baked to perfection with a cheesy topping, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.
Ingredients
Shredded Chicken:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast
Vegetables:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 cups fresh spinach (chopped)
Sauce:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cheeses:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Additional:
- 2 cups cooked pasta or rice (optional)
- nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet, sauté onion in olive oil until soft. Add garlic, then spinach, and cook until wilted.
- Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine chicken, sautéed vegetables, soup, sour cream, milk, seasonings, and pasta/rice if using.
- Bake: Transfer mixture to baking dish, top with cheeses, and bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra richness, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or add cooked bacon.
- You can use frozen spinach; ensure it’s thawed and well-drained.
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