There’s something magical about the aroma of a bubbling casserole wafting through the house, isn’t there? Imagine creamy chicken and spinach casserole fresh out of the oven, golden and cheesy, with an irresistible scent that makes your stomach growl louder than a ravenous bear. This delightful dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or for impressing friends at a potluck.
I still remember the first time I made this creamy chicken and spinach casserole for my friends. Their eyes lit up as they took their first bites, and I basked in the glory of my culinary triumph. It feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, bringing everyone together with its rich flavors and comforting textures. Let’s dive into this delicious experience together.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy chicken and spinach casserole combines simplicity and flavor, making it ideal for busy weeknights
- The vibrant green spinach adds nutrition while looking stunning on your plate
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to switch up ingredients based on what you have in your pantry
- Your family will be asking for seconds trust me
I still chuckle when I recall how my kids fought over the last helping of this casserole during one family dinner, proving just how irresistible it really is.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts but feel free to adjust based on how many are at your dinner table.
- Fresh Spinach: Opt for bright green spinach leaves they add color and nutrients that make this dish pop.
- Cream Cheese: Grab full-fat cream cheese for that luscious texture that melts perfectly into the casserole.
- Shredded Cheese: A blend of mozzarella and cheddar provides great meltability and flavor.
- Garlic Powder: Just a dash elevates the overall taste who doesn’t love garlic?
- Onion Powder: Adds depth without overwhelming other flavors go for granulated for even mixing.
- Pasta (Rotini or Penne): Choose your favorite pasta shape it holds onto the sauce beautifully.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while enriching the flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set them aside. You want them small enough to cook evenly but not so tiny that they vanish in the sauce.
Sauté Chicken to Perfection: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, toss in your chopped chicken cook until it’s golden brown and no longer pink inside about 5-7 minutes. The aroma will be absolutely mouthwatering
Add Spinach and Seasoning: Stir in the fresh spinach along with garlic powder and onion powder. Cook until the spinach wilts down just a couple of minutes. The vibrant green color will make you feel like a culinary rock star
Create Your Creamy Sauce : In a separate bowl, mix together cream cheese and chicken broth until smooth. Pour this luscious mixture over your sautéed chicken and spinach in the skillet. Give everything a good stir to combine all those glorious flavors.
Combine with Pasta : Cook your chosen pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain it well before folding it gently into your creamy chicken-spinach mixture. Make sure every pasta piece gets coated in that cheesy goodness
Bake Until Bubbly : Transfer everything into a greased baking dish, top generously with shredded cheese, then pop it into the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. Trust me you’ll be dancing around waiting for this masterpiece to finish baking
Now that you know how to whip up this creamy chicken and spinach casserole, go ahead and treat yourself With its comforting flavors and simple preparation process, it’s bound to become a new family favorite
You Must Know
- This creamy chicken and spinach casserole is the perfect comfort food
- Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a family favorite
- With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this dish brings warmth to your table and smiles to your loved ones
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing the chicken until golden brown then, prepare the sauce while it cooks to save time.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out spinach for kale or add mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in an oven for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh spinach for a vibrant color and taste, but frozen works too
- Avoid overcooking chicken it can become dry
- For a crispy topping, broil the casserole briefly before serving
Sharing this dish with friends on a cozy night made me realize how food can bring people together, turning ordinary moments into cherished memories.
FAQ
Can I make creamy chicken and spinach casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely Prepare it in advance and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
What can I use instead of cream?
You can substitute milk mixed with flour for a lighter version of this casserole.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when it’s bubbly around the edges and golden on top.
Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a comforting dish that brings warmth and joy to your table. This flavorful casserole combines tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and rich cream cheese in a deliciously cheesy bake. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, it’s a delightful way to impress your loved ones while enjoying a simple, nourishing meal. Get ready to savor every bite of this crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
- 3 cups boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cubed)
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 8 oz cream cheese (full-fat)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (mozzarella and cheddar blend)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 2 cups rotini or penne pasta
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add cubed chicken and cook until golden brown (5-7 minutes).
- Stir in spinach, garlic powder, and onion powder; cook until spinach wilts (2 minutes).
- In a bowl, combine cream cheese and chicken broth until smooth. Pour over the chicken-spinach mixture and stir.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and mix into the skillet.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish, top with shredded cheese, and bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 80mg