Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese Recipe

Introduction

This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese combines tender chicken breasts with a creamy, cheesy spinach filling. It’s a comforting, flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

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 olive oil over medium heat. Add spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Set aside.
5. Step 5: Beat softened cream cheese in a bowl, then stir in the cooked spinach and 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (and Parmesan if using).
6. Step 6: Optionally, sear the marinated chicken in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes per side for added flavor.
7. Step 7: Arrange the chicken in the baking dish, spread the cream cheese and spinach mixture evenly over it, and 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 crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade.
• Use frozen spinach if fresh isn’t available; just be sure to thaw and drain it well.
• Swap mozzarella for provolone or cheddar for a different cheese twist.
• Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Storage

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or microwave individual portions until hot.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used. They may require slightly longer cooking time and provide a juicier result.

How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?

The safest way is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 123 reviews

This creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners. Tender chicken cutlets are marinated and optionally seared, then baked under a rich layer of cream cheese, spinach, and mozzarella for a cheesy, savory meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

• Author: Sana
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Lactose

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

Spinach and Cheese Mixture

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

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking during baking.
2. Prepare Chicken Cutlets: Cut each chicken breast in half horizontally to create four thin cutlets. Gently pound the thicker ends to ensure even thickness for uniform cooking.
3. Marinate 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, and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
4. Sauté Spinach: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add fresh spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
5. Mix Cream Cheese and Spinach: Beat the softened cream cheese in a bowl until smooth. Stir in the sautéed spinach along with 1/2 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese if using, combining into a creamy mixture.
6. Optional Searing of Chicken: For added flavor and texture, sear the marinated chicken cutlets in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes per side until lightly browned. This step is optional but recommended.
7. Assemble Casserole: Arrange the chicken cutlets evenly 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: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes 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 before serving to allow flavors to meld and the dish to set.

Notes

• Ensure chicken is pounded to even thickness to avoid uneven cooking.
• Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor.
• Searing the chicken before baking enhances flavor but can be skipped to save time.
• Use fresh spinach for best texture and flavor; frozen spinach can be used if well-drained.
• Check the internal temperature of chicken to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.

Keywords: chicken casserole, spinach casserole, cream cheese recipe, baked chicken dish, easy dinner, creamy chicken, spinach and cheese casserole