Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese Recipe

Introduction

This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is a creamy, comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Tender chicken breasts combine with savory spinach and melty cheeses for a satisfying meal perfect for any night of the week.

Ingredients

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 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)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Step 2: Cut each chicken breast in half horizontally to create four thin cutlets. Pound the thicker ends to ensure even thickness.
3. Step 3: In a bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Toss the chicken in the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes.
4. Step 4: In a skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Set aside.
5. Step 5: Beat the softened cream cheese in a bowl, then stir in the cooked spinach and 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (add Parmesan if using).
6. Step 6: Optionally, sear the marinated chicken cutlets in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes per side for added flavor.
7. Step 7: Arrange the chicken cutlets in the baking dish. Spread the cream cheese and spinach mixture evenly over the chicken, then top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
8. Step 8: Bake for 20-30 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
9. Step 9: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a subtle heat.
• Substitute fresh spinach with frozen chopped spinach—just be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding.
• Try topping the casserole with breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter before baking for a crispy finish.
• Use gouda or fontina cheese instead of mozzarella for a different cheesy twist.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through to avoid drying out the chicken.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a few hours before baking. Keep it covered in the refrigerator and bake just before serving.

Is it necessary to sear the chicken before baking?

Searing the chicken is optional but recommended as it adds extra flavor and helps lock in juices. If short on time, you can skip this step and bake directly.

Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 136 reviews

• Author: Andria
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Salt

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Description

This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is a creamy, savory baked dish featuring tender chicken breasts layered with a rich mixture of cream cheese, spinach, and mozzarella. Perfect for a comforting dinner, it combines simple ingredients with easy preparation for a delicious, cheesy casserole.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Marinade

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Vegetables and Cheese

• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, optional

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Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Slice each chicken breast horizontally into two thin cutlets, making four pieces total. Pound the thicker parts of the cutlets to even out their thickness for uniform cooking.
3. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Toss the chicken cutlets in this marinade, cover the bowl, and refrigerate for 15 to 30 minutes to infuse the flavors.
4. Cook the Spinach: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the fresh spinach and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Stir in the cooked spinach and 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Add Parmesan cheese if using and mix until combined.
6. Sear the Chicken (Optional): For added flavor and texture, sear each marinated chicken cutlet in a hot skillet for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until lightly browned but not fully cooked.
7. Assemble the Casserole: Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Spread the cream cheese and spinach mixture evenly over the chicken. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese on top.
8. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the cheese is melted and lightly browned on top.
9. Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to set before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes serving easier.

Notes

• For a thicker casserole, use full-fat cream cheese to maintain creaminess.
• Fresh spinach can be substituted with frozen spinach, but be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water before cooking.
• Optional Parmesan cheese adds a nutty flavor but can be omitted for a milder taste.
• If you prefer, skip the searing step, and cook the chicken fully in the oven.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: chicken casserole, spinach casserole, cream cheese chicken, baked chicken recipe, cheesy chicken bake