Delicious Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese
Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese
If you’re looking for a hearty and comforting dish that is both easy to prepare and packed with flavor, look no further than Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese. This delightful recipe layers tender chicken cutlets with a creamy spinach mixture, topped with melted cheese. It’s not only delicious but also a nutritious option for your family dinner. Perfect for busy weeknights, this casserole makes meal prep a breeze!
Why Make This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons to try this Chicken and Spinach Casserole. First and foremost, it’s incredibly tasty—combining the rich flavors of cream cheese and garlic with fresh spinach makes for a delicious meal that everyone will love. It’s also versatile, allowing you to add your favorite spices or cheeses to suit your taste. Plus, it’s packed with protein and greens, making it a filling and nutritious option. If you’re looking for a way to get your family to eat more vegetables, this dish is an excellent choice!
How to Make Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese
This casserole is simple to make, even for beginner cooks! Follow these steps to prepare a delightful Chicken and Spinach Casserole that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 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)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Set aside.
- Cut the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create four cutlets. Pound the thicker ends with a rolling pin for even thickness.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken cutlets and toss to coat. Cover and chill in the fridge for 15-30 minutes.
- Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the spinach and cook, stirring frequently until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Set aside.
- In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the wilted spinach, 1/2 cup of mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Mix until smooth.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. For a golden exterior, sear the chicken in the skillet for 1-2 minutes per side if desired.
- Arrange the chicken cutlets in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
- Spread the spinach and cream cheese mixture over the chicken, then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake for 20-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and lightly browned. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese
This casserole can be served as a main dish and pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables. For an extra touch, consider garnishing it with fresh herbs like parsley or basil. It can also be served with crusty bread to soak up any delicious sauce!
How to Store Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese
Leftover Chicken and Spinach Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place in a preheated oven or microwave until warmed through.
Tips to Make Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese
- For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight for a deeper taste.
- If you prefer a cheesier casserole, feel free to add more mozzarella or try different types of cheese such as cheddar.
- Spinach can be replaced with kale or Swiss chard if desired.
Variations
- Add Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers to the spinach mixture for more variety.
- Low-Carb Version: Substitute the cream cheese with a low-fat or dairy-free alternative if you’re looking for a lighter version.
- Herb Variations: Try using different herbs like thyme or rosemary to switch up the flavor profile.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
A: Yes, frozen spinach can be used. Just make sure to drain it well to remove excess moisture before adding it to the cream cheese mixture.
Q: What should I serve with this casserole?
A: This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, rice, or bread for a complete meal.
Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to adjust the baking time as it may take longer if it’s going in the oven straight from the fridge.
Make this Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese today for a comforting dinner that’s sure to satisfy!
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
- 1/2 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) Use if desired
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Set aside.
- Cut the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create four cutlets. Pound the thicker ends with a rolling pin for even thickness.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken cutlets and toss to coat. Cover and chill in the fridge for 15-30 minutes.
- Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the spinach and cook, stirring frequently until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Set aside.
- In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the wilted spinach, 1/2 cup of mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Mix until smooth.
Assembly and Cooking
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. For a golden exterior, sear the chicken in the skillet for 1-2 minutes per side if desired.
- Arrange the chicken cutlets in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
- Spread the spinach and cream cheese mixture over the chicken, then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake for 20-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
