Name: Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2-3 cups cooked and shredded chicken breasts or thighs; 4 cups fresh spinach or 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; ½ cup sour cream; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, finely chopped; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; Pinch of nutmeg (optional); Sliced mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or cooked pasta

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If you’re hunting for a weeknight dinner that feels special yet fits perfectly into your busy schedule, this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is going to be your new secret weapon. Juicy shredded chicken mingles with tender spinach, all tied together with a dreamy, velvety cheese sauce, then finished under a bubbling crown of mozzarella and Parmesan. Every bite is rich, comforting, and deeply satisfying—this is the kind of dish that brings everyone running to the table. Whether you prep it ahead or pop it in the oven at dinnertime, Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is here to make meals easier and more delicious.

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes this dish truly stand out is how each ingredient plays a unique role: the chicken gives it substance, spinach adds a fresh green touch, and the cheese sauce ties everything together in creamy harmony. You probably have most of these on hand, and each one is essential in building flavor and texture for your Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole.

Chicken (2-3 cups, cooked and shredded): Use leftover rotisserie, poached, or roasted chicken—thighs or breasts both work beautifully for tender results.
Fresh Spinach (4 cups) or 1 package frozen spinach (thawed and drained): Fresh spinach brings a pop of color and a delicate texture, but frozen works too for ultimate convenience.
Cream Cheese (8 ounces, softened): This is the secret to that luscious, creamy sauce that hugs every bite.
Sour Cream (½ cup): Adds just the right amount of tang to keep things light and balanced.
Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup, shredded): Melts into gooey, golden goodness on top of your casserole.
Parmesan Cheese (¼ cup, grated): Brings a salty, nutty punch to round out all the creamy richness.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Sautéed garlic gives the whole casserole irresistible aroma and depth.
Onion (1 small, finely chopped): Sweet and savory, onions build the foundation of flavor in the sauce.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Season to taste to really highlight every ingredient.
Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds just a hint of heat to keep things lively.
Nutmeg (pinch, optional): Just a whisper of nutmeg can make the cream sauce taste even more special.
Optional Additions: Toss in sliced mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or even some cooked pasta for extra variety and heartiness.

How to Make Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by making sure your chicken is cooked and easily shreddable—using leftovers or rotisserie chicken will save you precious time, but if starting from scratch, just simmer or bake your chicken until tender. For the spinach, quickly sauté fresh leaves just until wilted, or if using frozen, thaw thoroughly and squeeze out excess water. This step ensures you won’t have extra moisture watering down your Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, blend together softened cream cheese and sour cream with your freshly minced garlic, chopped onions, salt, pepper, and the optional pinch of nutmeg. Stir until the mixture is silky smooth and all the aromatics are evenly distributed. This cheesy, garlicky sauce is what makes the casserole so incredibly creamy from top to bottom.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a casserole dish to make cleanup a breeze. Layer your shredded chicken and sautéed spinach right into the dish, then gently fold in the creamy sauce so everything is wonderfully coated. This little mix ensures every bite of your Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole delivers a perfect balance of flavors.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Bake

Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole. Bake uncovered for about 25 to 30 minutes, until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly in all the best ways. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point will be pure comfort!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Allow your casserole to cool for a few minutes so the creamy sauce can set. Then, scoop generous portions onto plates and savor the gooey, cheesy goodness. This dish loves a simple side salad, some crusty bread, or fluffy rice—but honestly, it shines all on its own, too.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

Garnishes

Top your Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole with freshly chopped parsley or a scattering of green onions for a boost of color and freshness. If you adore an extra savory punch, a sprinkle of extra Parmesan right after baking never hurts.

Side Dishes

This casserole absolutely loves classic sidekicks. Offer a crisp green salad, buttery garlic bread, or even a scoop of fluffy rice to complete the meal. If you’re in the mood for comfort, some roasted baby potatoes or steamed veggies are always a great match.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy feel, portion individual servings into ramekins before baking. Or, if you’re entertaining, serve it buffet style with a toppings bar—think toasted breadcrumbs, hot sauce, or extra shredded cheese. The Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is endlessly versatile and adapts to any occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Simply cover the dish tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container to keep everything fresh and the flavors just as delicious as day one.

Freezing

To freeze, assemble your uncooked casserole in a freezer-safe dish (skip baking for now). Tightly cover and freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed for a homemade meal that’s always ready when you are.

Reheating

For best results, gently reheat leftover Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole in a 350°F oven, covered with foil to retain that luscious moisture. Alternatively, zap individual portions in the microwave until hot and bubbly. Either way, it reheats like a dream.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken in this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut and brings lots of flavor to the Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole. Just shred or chop the meat, and you’re good to go.

Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?

You bet—Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is perfect for prepping in advance. Assemble everything (but don’t bake), then refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking as usual.

Can I use other greens besides spinach?

Definitely. While spinach is classic, chopped kale or Swiss chard are flavorful swaps. Just be sure to cook tougher greens down and drain well before adding them in.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

The base Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is naturally gluten-free, but always check labels on your cheeses and seasonings to be sure. If you add pasta, use a gluten-free variety.

Can I add cooked pasta to make it more filling?

Yes, a couple cups of cooked pasta fold in easily for an even heartier dish. Penne, rotini, or shells pair perfectly with the creamy sauce and other flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is the dinner hero you’ve been waiting for—no fuss, loads of comfort, and big on flavor. If you’re craving a cozy dish that’s bound to win family and friends over, give this recipe a try! Don’t be surprised if it quickly becomes a go-to favorite at your table.