Description
This creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for a family dinner. Featuring tender shredded chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich blend of cream cheese, sour cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, it bakes to a bubbly golden perfection. The sautéed onions and garlic add depth of flavor, while the optional cooked rice adds texture and heartiness. Ready in just 40 minutes, this casserole is an easy crowd-pleaser packed with protein and creamy goodness.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein & Vegetables
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy & Cheese
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings & Oils
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Optional Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked rice (optional, for added texture)
- 1 tbsp melted butter (for greasing)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven & Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9-inch casserole dish with the melted butter to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Sauté Onion & Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Cook Spinach: Stir in the chopped fresh spinach into the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
- Mix Creamy Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, sour cream, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper until you get a smooth, creamy mixture with no lumps.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the shredded cooked chicken, sautéed spinach mixture, and cooked rice if using, into the creamy sauce bowl. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined and evenly distributed.
- Bake Casserole: Transfer the combined mixture into your prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Garnish & Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and optionally garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Allow it to sit for a few minutes to set before serving warm.
Notes
- You can use any cooked chicken such as rotisserie or leftover chicken to save time.
- Fresh spinach can be substituted with frozen spinach; just be sure to thaw and drain excess water before using.
- Adding cooked rice is optional but adds nice texture and makes the casserole more filling.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to blend smoothly without lumps.
- You can add your favorite herbs like thyme or basil for an extra flavor twist.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat covered in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
