Spinach Chicken Casserole

A creamy, cheesy hug in a dish—this Spinach Chicken Casserole is filled with tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and a golden breadcrumb crust. It’s a comforting, flavorful meal that will quickly become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole combines all the things you love—tender chicken, gooey cheese, and the freshness of spinach—into one delicious dish. The cream cheese and mozzarella create a rich, creamy texture that perfectly complements the chicken, while the crispy breadcrumb topping adds just the right amount of crunch. It’s the ultimate comfort food, easy to make, and even easier to devour!

Ingredients

• 2 cups (300g) cooked chicken, shredded

• 2 cups (60g) fresh spinach, chopped

• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella

• ½ cup (120g) sour cream

• ½ cup (120ml) chicken broth

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• Salt & pepper to taste

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

• ½ cup (50g) breadcrumbs (for topping)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13″ baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

2. Mix Filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped spinach, softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.

3. Spread: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

4. Top & Bake: Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.

5. Rest: Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 6-8 people and takes approximately 40-45 minutes from start to finish, including prep time.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with a mix of mushrooms and zucchini for a hearty vegetarian casserole.

• Cheese Swap: Try swapping mozzarella for cheddar or a combination of your favorite cheeses for different flavors.

• Spice It Up: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to kick up the heat.

• Add More Veggies: For extra nutrition, mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or artichokes.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker reheating option.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to remove any excess moisture before adding it to the casserole.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

3. Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great option for this recipe! It’s already cooked and shredded, which saves time.

4. Can I substitute the cream cheese with another type of cheese?

If you want to skip cream cheese, you can use ricotta cheese or a combination of cream cheese and sour cream for a similar creamy texture.

5. How do I know when the casserole is done?

The casserole is done when it’s bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown. You can also insert a thermometer into the center to check if it’s reached 165°F (74°C).

6. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. To bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed.

7. Can I use a different type of broth in this recipe?

You can use vegetable broth or beef broth if you prefer, though chicken broth is the most common and provides the best flavor.

8. What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.

9. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, substitute the cream cheese and mozzarella with dairy-free cheese options, and use dairy-free sour cream and butter.

10. Can I add pasta to this casserole for extra substance?

Yes! You can mix cooked pasta into the casserole for a heartier dish, like a chicken and spinach pasta bake.

Conclusion

This Spinach Chicken Casserole with Cream Cheese & Mozzarella is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, it’s an easy-to-make meal that your whole family will enjoy. With simple ingredients and a quick prep time, this dish will quickly become a weeknight favorite. Whether you serve it with garlic bread or a fresh salad, it’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy!