Description
This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is a comforting, creamy baked dish perfect for weeknight dinners. Featuring tender shredded chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and cheeses, it offers a deliciously cheesy and savory meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cooked rice (optional, for added texture)
Seasonings and Oils
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp melted butter (for greasing)
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven & Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9-inch casserole dish with melted butter to prevent sticking and ease serving.
- Sauté Onion & Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Cook Spinach: Stir the chopped spinach into the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Once done, remove the skillet from heat and set aside.
- Mix Creamy Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until you have a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the shredded chicken, sautéed spinach with onion and garlic, and cooked rice if using, to the creamy sauce in the bowl. Stir well to evenly incorporate all ingredients.
- Bake Casserole: Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Garnish & Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and optionally sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and casserole to set.
Notes
- You can substitute rotisserie chicken with any cooked chicken of your choice.
- Using cooked rice is optional but adds texture and makes the casserole more filling.
- Fresh parsley is optional but adds a nice fresh flavor and color garnish.
- Make sure cream cheese is softened to ensure a smooth and creamy sauce mixture.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This casserole can be reheated in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
