If you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner that’s equal parts creamy, savory, and a little bit wholesome, let me introduce you to my Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese. This dish wraps tender shredded chicken and vibrant spinach in a luxuriously smooth cream cheese sauce, then crowns it with melty mozzarella for the perfect golden finish. It’s a crowd-pleasing, make-ahead wonder that makes magic out of simple ingredients, and I promise, it will become a staple at your table.

Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s something truly special about how just a handful of accessible ingredients can come together to create a memorable meal. Each item in this Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese brings its own flavor or texture, ensuring every bite is delicious and satisfying.

Cooked shredded chicken breast: Use juicy cooked chicken for that hearty, protein-packed base; rotisserie chicken works in a pinch!
Olive oil: Helps sauté the garlic and spinach, adding a hint of richness.
Garlic (minced): Just two cloves are enough to infuse each bite with aromatic flavor.
Fresh spinach (roughly chopped): Brings a pop of green and wilts into the creamy sauce for color and nutrition.
Cream cheese (softened): Gives the casserole its signature, velvety texture and mild tang.
Sour cream: Adds tanginess and helps make the filling irresistibly creamy.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Lends salty, nutty depth and a hint of umami.
Shredded mozzarella cheese (divided): Half goes into the sauce for melt, half on top for that bubbly, golden finish.
Onion powder: Gives an extra background layer of savory flavor without the effort of chopping onions.
Salt: Essential for enhancing and balancing every flavor in the casserole.
Black pepper: Just a touch for subtle heat and earthiness.
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Sprinkle in if you crave a bit of boldness and warmth!

How to Make Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F so it’s piping hot when you’re ready to bake. Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a slick of olive oil. This ensures your Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese slides out perfectly, with zero sticking or mess.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Spinach

Grab a large skillet and heat your olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic, letting it sizzle for just 30 seconds—enough to become fragrant but not brown. Add the chopped spinach (it will look like a mountain, but don’t worry!), and cook, stirring, until wilted and deep green—about 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Mixture

In a spacious mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, grated Parmesan, half the mozzarella, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Stir until everything is silky smooth and utterly tempting. This is the heart and soul of your Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese!

Step 4: Combine Chicken, Spinach, and Sauce

Add your cooked shredded chicken and the garlicky spinach mixture into the bowl with your cheese sauce. Gently fold everything together, ensuring that every morsel is luxuriously coated in the creamy base.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Evenly spread the combined mixture into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella over the top, completely blanketing the casserole. Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melty, golden, and bubbling invitingly at the edges. Let the casserole cool briefly so the flavors can settle before serving your Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese.

How to Serve Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, a dusting of extra Parmesan, or even a pinch more red pepper flakes can take the casserole from homey to next-level. These garnishes add a burst of color, aroma, and extra flavor right before you dig in.

Side Dishes

For a balanced meal, pair your Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese with fluffy rice, al dente pasta, or warm, crusty bread. If you’re keeping things low carb, a garden salad or some roasted veggies are perfect companions that keep things light and fresh.

Creative Ways to Present

This casserole shines as the cozy centerpiece on a family table, but try making individual servings in ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for dinner parties. For brunch, serve it alongside eggs or tuck a scoop into a toasted sandwich or wrap for a seriously delicious twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover the Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese tightly and refrigerate. It’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep or next-day lunches.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully! Portion individual servings into freezer-safe containers, or wrap the whole (unbaked or baked) dish in foil and plastic wrap. It keeps well in the freezer for up to 2 months—just remember to label it with the date.

Reheating

To reheat, simply microwave individual portions until hot, or warm larger amounts in a 350°F oven, covered, until heated through and cheese is bubbly again. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking for best results.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw your spinach completely and squeeze out as much moisture as possible to avoid a watery casserole. The flavor will be just as delicious and it’s a real time-saver.

Can I swap the chicken for another protein?

You sure can. Turkey is a great option, especially if you have leftovers, and cooked, shredded rotisserie chicken works perfectly. For a vegetarian twist, try canned white beans (drained and rinsed) or extra sautéed mushrooms.

Is there a dairy-free way to make Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese?

Yes! Use your favorite plant-based cream cheese, dairy-free yogurt or sour cream, plus vegan cheese alternatives. While the flavor will be a bit different, you’ll still get a creamy, comforting casserole that everyone can enjoy.

Can I assemble the casserole ahead of time?

Definitely. Prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to a day in advance. When ready to eat, simply add a few extra baking minutes to ensure it’s heated all the way through.

What’s the best way to shred chicken for this casserole?

Poach boneless, skinless chicken breasts and shred them with two forks when they’re cool enough to handle. If you’re short on time, store-bought rotisserie chicken is a fabulous shortcut with plenty of flavor.

Final Thoughts

I truly can’t wait for you to try this Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese—it’s the kind of recipe that brings warmth and ease to busy nights and cozy gatherings alike. Give it a spot on your dinner rotation, and you might just find yourself making it again and again. Enjoy!