Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

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This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is the epitome of weeknight comfort food. Juicy bites of seared chicken, tender spinach, and golden cheese crusts melt together into one irresistible, bubbly bake. It’s the kind of dish that gathers everyone around the dinner table without needing a special occasion.

Creamy, cheesy, and deeply savory, this casserole brings flavor without the fuss. The blend of garlic, herbs, and melty cheese hits all the right notes—and it’s all tied together with luscious cream cheese for a texture that’s pure indulgence. Whether you’re feeding a family or craving leftovers that reheat like a dream, this casserole has you covered.

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What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs both work beautifully for this recipe. Thighs offer a richer flavor and stay juicier after baking, while breasts provide leaner protein. Make sure to cut your chicken into bite-sized chunks so they cook evenly and nestle into every layer of the casserole.

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Ingredients for the Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

Chicken – The heart of the dish. Choose fresh, boneless chicken for tender, protein-packed bites.

Spinach – Adds a pop of green and a nutritious balance to the rich cheeses. Fresh spinach wilts perfectly in the casserole but frozen spinach can work if well-drained.

Cream Cheese – The magic ingredient that makes the sauce silky and luxurious. It melts into the casserole and binds everything with a creamy finish.

Shredded Mozzarella – Offers a classic melty stretch and mild flavor. Sprinkle generously on top for a golden, cheesy crust.

Parmesan Cheese – Brings a salty, umami depth that balances the richness of the cream cheese and mozzarella.

Garlic and Onion – Aromatic and flavorful, these two add a savory base that enhances every layer.

Olive Oil – Helps sear the chicken and sauté the aromatics, infusing the dish with richness.

Italian Seasoning – Adds a blend of herbs that round out the flavor with notes of oregano, thyme, and basil.

Salt & Pepper – Essential for bringing all the flavors together.

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How To Make the Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed, then sauté diced onions until translucent. Add minced garlic and stir for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Wilt the Spinach

Add fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted. If using frozen spinach, make sure it’s thawed and drained before adding. Stir well to combine with the aromatics.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Lower the heat and stir in the cream cheese until melted and fully incorporated with the spinach and aromatics. The mixture should be creamy and smooth.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, layer the cooked chicken and pour the creamy spinach mixture over it. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 20–25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. If needed, broil for 2-3 minutes to get that crispy top.

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How to Serve and Store Your Chicken and Spinach Casserole

Serve this casserole hot, straight from the oven, with crusty bread or a simple green salad to round out the meal. It’s hearty enough to stand on its own, but pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or even pasta.

To store, let it cool completely and cover tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best texture, or microwave individual portions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and squeeze out as much liquid as possible to prevent a watery casserole.

What if I don’t have cream cheese?

You can substitute with ricotta or even a creamy Alfredo sauce, though the flavor and texture will change slightly.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature while the oven preheats.

What cheeses can I substitute?

Feel free to experiment with provolone, Gruyère, or a smoked gouda for different flavor profiles.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, if you skip any carb-heavy sides and use full-fat cheeses, this casserole is naturally low in carbs.

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Want More Dinner Ideas with a Cheesy Twist?

If you love this Chicken and Spinach Casserole, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

• Garlic Butter Steak with Cheesy Alfredo Tortellini
• Creamy Chicken Mushroom Stroganoff
• Creamy Garlic Marry Me Salmon
• Creamy Tortellini Recipe
• Chicken Pot Pie Bake with Cheddar Bay Biscuits

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add mushrooms or swap in kale? Did your kids go back for seconds?

I love seeing how others put their own spin on it. Questions are always welcome—let’s make dinner better together.

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