Cheesy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

If you’re looking for a cozy dinner that combines simplicity and flavor, look no further than this Cheesy Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Mushrooms. This dish is not only incredibly comforting but also boasts a delightful combination of cheese, tender chicken, and nutritious spinach. The creamy sauce enriched with garlic and Italian seasoning elevates this casserole to a dish that’s perfect for any night of the week, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home.

This recipe is ideal for those who crave the heartiness of a well-made casserole without investing too much time in the kitchen. In just 45 minutes, you can whip up this delicious meal using straightforward ingredients that you likely already have on hand. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate more greens into your family’s diet. As an added bonus, this casserole is great for meal prep—make one for dinner and freeze another for busy nights.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is straightforward and quick to prepare, taking just 45 minutes from start to finish.
• Creamy and Delicious: The combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese creates a rich, creamy texture that everyone will love.
• Nutritious: Packed with spinach and mushrooms, this dish provides essential vitamins and minerals while still being indulgent.
• Meal Prep Friendly: You can easily assemble this dish ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready to eat.
• Family Favorite: This casserole is bound to be a hit with kids and adults alike, making mealtime enjoyable.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into this cheesy chicken and spinach casserole, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Make sure your workspace is clean and organized. You will need a good-quality skillet to sear the chicken and sauté the vegetables. A cutting board and sharp knife will be handy for chopping the spinach and mushrooms. Additionally, a baking dish is required to layer the ingredients before baking.

Here’s a tip: preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) before you start cooking. This will ensure that the casserole bakes evenly and thoroughly once assembled. Gather all your ingredients to streamline the process—this makes cooking more enjoyable and less stressful!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups fresh spinach (roughly chopped)
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). It’s vital to have it at the right temperature so that your casserole cooks evenly and your cheese gets that beautiful golden crust.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Take your chicken breasts and season them generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This step adds essential flavor right to the meat, ensuring that every bite is savory.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the skillet. Sear each side for about 3–4 minutes, or until they achieve a lovely golden-brown color. Once seared, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they are nicely browned and tender. Then, add the minced garlic and chopped spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts down, which should only take a couple of minutes.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour the chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet with the vegetables. Stir everything together and let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly. This creamy spinach and mushroom sauce will be the ultimate flavor booster for your chicken.

Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

Grab a baking dish and place the seared chicken breasts in it. Pour the creamy spinach and mushroom sauce evenly over the chicken, covering them well. Then, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top. This cheesy layer is what makes this casserole irresistible!

Step 7: Bake It Up

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly. If you like a crunchier top, consider broiling it for the last few minutes.

Once baked, remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley to add a pop of color and flavor.

Variations

• Protein: Substitute chicken with turkey breasts or cooked shredded chicken for added versatility.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or zucchini to boost nutrition and flavor.
• Spices: Experiment with different herbs and spices; try adding paprika for a smoky flavor or red pepper flakes for some heat.

Cooking Notes

• For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, which provides a similar creamy texture with fewer calories.
• Using frozen spinach is an option too. Just make sure to thaw and squeeze it dry before adding to the skillet to prevent excess moisture in the sauce.
• This casserole can be prepared ahead of time—assemble it and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Leftovers reheat beautifully, making them perfect for lunch the next day!

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this casserole with a light side salad for a complete meal that balances flavor and nutrition.
• Pair it with some crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up any creamy sauce left on the plate.

Tips

• Don’t rush the searing process; a good sear locks in flavor and moisture.
• Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking; this allows the cheese to set slightly, making serving easier.
• Consider adding a touch of lemon juice or zest to the creamy mixture for a refreshing brightness.
• Experiment with different types of cheese such as fontina or gouda for a unique flavor twist!

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 540 per serving
• Protein: 38g
• Sodium: 680mg

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

While it’s best to use fresh chicken for optimal texture, you can use frozen chicken if it’s properly thawed before cooking. Just ensure it reaches the safe cooking temperature of 165°F.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble it, cover it, and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the spinach and mushroom mixture for an added kick of heat.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Mushrooms is not only a delightful comfort food dish but also a versatile and nutritious option that can fit into any meal plan. With its creamy texture and delicious flavors, it’s destined to become a family favorite. Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations, and enjoy the joy of cooking this simple yet satisfying casserole. We’d love to hear your thoughts on this recipe—try it out, share your experiences, and feel free to leave your comments below!

Cheesy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

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• Author: Alioui
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This Cheesy Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Mushrooms is a cozy and comforting dinner option that combines delicious flavors and the heartiness of a casserole.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups fresh spinach (roughly chopped)
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). It’s vital to have it at the right temperature so that your casserole cooks evenly and your cheese gets that beautiful golden crust.
2. Take your chicken breasts and season them generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This step adds essential flavor right to the meat, ensuring that every bite is savory.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the skillet. Sear each side for about 3–4 minutes, or until they achieve a lovely golden-brown color. Once seared, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they are nicely browned and tender. Then, add the minced garlic and chopped spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts down, which should only take a couple of minutes.
5. Pour the chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet with the vegetables. Stir everything together and let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly. This creamy spinach and mushroom sauce will be the ultimate flavor booster for your chicken.
6. Grab a baking dish and place the seared chicken breasts in it. Pour the creamy spinach and mushroom sauce evenly over the chicken, covering them well. Then, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top. This cheesy layer is what makes this casserole irresistible!
7. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly. If you like a crunchier top, consider broiling it for the last few minutes.
8. Once baked, remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley to add a pop of color and flavor.

Notes

For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, which provides a similar creamy texture with fewer calories. Using frozen spinach is an option too. Just make sure to thaw and squeeze it dry before adding to the skillet to prevent excess moisture in the sauce. This casserole can be prepared ahead of time—assemble it and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Leftovers reheat beautifully, making them perfect for lunch the next day!

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner

Nutrition

• Calories: 540 per serving
• Sodium: 680 mg
• Protein: 38 g