Welcome to a delectable journey of flavor with this Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese – Easy Recipe! If you’re on the lookout for a comforting dish that marries rich, creamy goodness with nutritious ingredients, you’ve hit the jackpot. This casserole doesn’t just satisfy your taste buds; it also invites a healthy twist into your meals with the goodness of spinach and lean chicken. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish seamlessly combines convenience with culinary flair.
Imagine slicing through layers of tender chicken enveloped in a creamy spinach mixture topped with melted mozzarella cheese – it’s pure comfort on a plate. Moreover, the simplicity of the dish makes it accessible for any skill level in the kitchen, allowing anyone to walk away with a meal that feels gourmet. With the wonderful balance of flavors from the cream cheese and Italian seasoning, it’s an excellent option for families or anyone looking to impress guests. Dive into this easy recipe and discover your new favorite casserole!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Spinach Casserole
- Flavor Packed: The combination of cream cheese, spinach, and mozzarella creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile that brings everyone back for seconds.
- Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep and cooking steps, this recipe fits perfectly into a busy schedule while still delivering a hearty meal.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from the chicken and nutrients from fresh spinach, this casserole makes for a wholesome dish that is good for you!
- Versatile: This recipe allows for plenty of customization, whether you wish to alter the proteins or switch up the cheese.
- Comfort Food: Perfect for cozy nights or as a crowd-pleasing dish at gatherings, everyone will love digging into this warm casserole!
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into cooking your Chicken and Spinach Casserole, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen spaces effectively. Start by gathering all your ingredients and tools to streamline the cooking process. You will need a sharp knife for cutting, a large skillet for sautéing, and a sturdy baking dish (a 9×13 inch is ideal for this recipe). Prepare your workspace by ensuring that all utensils and tools are clean and ready. This will make it easier for you to move through each step seamlessly.
Additionally, preheat your oven to 400°F as this allows the casserole to bake evenly. Make sure everything is organized – the chicken should be in one area, spices in another, and the cheese mixture ready to go. This organization not only speeds up cooking but also reduces stress, turning your kitchen into an efficient cooking zone.
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved horizontally
- 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, washed and dried
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin your culinary adventure by preheating the oven to 400°F. Simultaneously, prepare your baking dish by lightly greasing a 9×13 inch size to prevent sticking. Take the chicken breasts and cut them in half horizontally, creating four even cutlets that will cook uniformly. To ensure that the chicken cooks evenly, gently pound the thicker ends using a rolling pin or a meat mallet. This simple step enhances both the texture and tenderness of the chicken.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Next, you’ll want to infuse your chicken with flavor. In a large bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken cutlets, tossing them carefully to ensure every piece is well coated in the marinade. For best results, cover the bowl and allow it to chill in the refrigerator for 15 to 30 minutes. This brief marinating process allows the chicken to absorb all the delightful flavors.
Step 3: Cook the Spinach
While the chicken is marinating, focus on your greens! Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the fresh spinach and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it wilts down and transforms into a vibrant green mixture. Once wilted, set it aside to cool slightly; this step ensures that the spinach won’t scorch your cheese when combined later.
Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a separate medium-sized bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency. This step is crucial because a smoother mixture will spread more easily throughout your casserole. To the cream cheese, fold in the wilted spinach and half a cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, plus the optional Parmesan if you desire an extra layer of flavor. Mix gently until you achieve a well-combined filling!
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Retrieve your marinated chicken from the refrigerator, removing excess marinade. If you want an added depth of flavor, quickly sear the chicken in the skillet for 1-2 minutes on each side. This step isn’t mandatory but introduces additional texture and taste. Arrange the chicken cutlets in your prepped baking dish in a single layer.
Step 6: Add the Creamy Layer
Now comes the fun part! Spread the spinach and cream cheese mixture evenly over the chicken. Make sure to cover each piece adequately for that creamy goodness in every bite. To finish, sprinkle the remaining half cup of mozzarella cheese generously over the top – this will create a lovely, bubbly crust once baked!
Step 7: Bake
Transfer your assembled casserole into the preheated oven, and allow it to bake for 20-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it, as you want the chicken to be thoroughly cooked and the cheese on top to achieve a bubbly, golden brown finish. Once done, let the casserole stand for about 5 minutes; this resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully before serving.
Variations
- Protein: Switch out the chicken for turkey for a lighter option or use tofu for a vegetarian adaptation.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add other veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or even artichokes for added flavors and textures.
- Spices: Experimenting with spices such as paprika or cayenne pepper can elevate the dish with a touch of heat.
Cooking Notes
- For an even creamier texture, you can add a splash of chicken broth to the cream cheese mixture when blending.
- If you prefer a crispy topping, broil the casserole for a few minutes at the end, but watch closely to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this casserole with a side of garlic bread for a more filling meal that is sure to please everyone.
- A fresh garden salad can be a refreshing accompaniment that balances the richness of the casserole.
Tips
- Ensure that the cream cheese is softened prior to use; this makes mixing much easier and prevents lumps in the filling.
- Adjust the seasoning to your liking; tasting as you go is key to achieving a flavor profile that suits your palate.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
- Protein: 35g
- Sodium: 600mg
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole and assemble it the night before. Just keep it covered in the fridge and bake it when ready!
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well before baking. Just ensure it’s tightly covered, and reheat when needed!
What can I substitute if I’m lactose intolerant?
You can easily swap out the cream cheese for a dairy-free version and opt for dairy-free mozzarella to maintain the creaminess!
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce into the cream cheese mixture for an extra kick that complements the flavors!
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings joy to the table. This easy recipe combines the healthy goodness of spinach and chicken with the luxurious creaminess of cheese, making it a hearty dish every home chef will love. Don’t hesitate to try out different variations and adjust flavors to fit your taste. We encourage you to share your thoughts and any twirls you’ve added to this dish in the comments below. Give it a shot – your family will thank you for this comforting casserole!
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Easy Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is a delicious, creamy dish that combines healthy spinach and tender chicken.
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved horizontally
- 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, washed and dried
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions
- Begin your culinary adventure by preheating the oven to 400°F. Simultaneously, prepare your baking dish by lightly greasing a 9×13 inch size to prevent sticking. Take the chicken breasts and cut them in half horizontally, creating four even cutlets that will cook uniformly. To ensure that the chicken cooks evenly, gently pound the thicker ends using a rolling pin or a meat mallet.
- Next, you’ll want to infuse your chicken with flavor. In a large bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken cutlets, tossing them carefully to ensure every piece is well coated in the marinade. For best results, cover the bowl and allow it to chill in the refrigerator for 15 to 30 minutes.
- While the chicken is marinating, focus on your greens! Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the fresh spinach and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it wilts down and transforms into a vibrant green mixture. Once wilted, set it aside to cool slightly.
- In a separate medium-sized bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency. Fold in the wilted spinach and half a cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, plus the optional Parmesan if desired.
- Retrieve your marinated chicken from the refrigerator, removing excess marinade. If you want an added depth of flavor, quickly sear the chicken in the skillet for 1-2 minutes on each side. Arrange the chicken cutlets in your prepped baking dish in a single layer.
- Spread the spinach and cream cheese mixture evenly over the chicken. Cover each piece adequately. Finish by sprinkling the remaining half cup of mozzarella cheese generously over the top.
- Transfer your assembled casserole into the preheated oven, and allow it to bake for 20-30 minutes. Once done, let the casserole stand for about 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For an even creamier texture, you can add a splash of chicken broth to the cream cheese mixture when blending. Adjust the seasoning to your liking; tasting as you go is key to achieving a flavor profile that suits your palate.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Protein: 35 g