If you’re looking for a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that checks every box for comfort and simplicity, Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a must-try. With tender chicken, a velvety cheesy sauce, fresh spinach, and a satisfyingly golden topping, this casserole brings together classic flavors in a way that feels special yet totally doable on any busy weeknight. It’s one of those recipes that warms both your kitchen and your heart, and it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is how every ingredient plays an important part, adding creaminess, color, or a delightful crunch. Most can be found in your pantry or fridge, making this a fuss-free yet impressive dinner option.
- Cooked shredded chicken: The fall-apart texture of cooked chicken is perfect here and soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Olive oil: Helps wilt your spinach and draw out the natural flavors without overpowering the dish.
- Fresh spinach (chopped): Adds a pop of color and a subtle earthy touch that balances the rich sauce.
- Garlic (minced): Just enough to give a savory lift and deepen the flavor profile.
- Cream of chicken soup: The secret to that irresistible creamy texture without any fuss—total comfort food!
- Sour cream: Adds a slight tang and extra creaminess for a luscious casserole body.
- Milk: Helps loosen everything up so the casserole bakes up soft and velvety.
- Onion powder: Gives subtle savory depth with zero chopping required.
- Salt and black pepper: Balances all the flavors and brings out the best in every ingredient.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey perfection, making every bite satisfyingly cheesy.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a sharp, nutty bite—don’t skip it for that signature casserole top!
- Crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (optional topping): Adds a crave-worthy crunchy finish for extra texture.
- Melted butter (if using topping): Binds the crunchy topping together and helps it brown beautifully.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole
Step 1: Get Ready to Bake
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch (or similar-sized) baking dish. This simple step keeps everything from sticking and ensures the casserole comes out perfectly every time.
Step 2: Wilt the Spinach
In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and sauté the chopped spinach until it’s just wilted, about 2–3 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute—your kitchen will instantly smell amazing!
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Base
Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the shredded chicken, sautéed spinach and garlic, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is fully incorporated, creating a rich, savory filling for your Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole.
Step 4: Add the Cheeses
Fold in the shredded mozzarella and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. This is what gives the casserole that dreamy, cheesy pull you’re craving. Save the rest of the Parmesan for the final flourish.
Step 5: Assemble and Top
Spoon the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. For an optional crunchy topping, mix crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top. Finish by scattering on the remaining Parmesan cheese.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s bubbling at the edges and the top is lightly golden. Let it cool for a few minutes before diving in—this helps the sauce set and keeps every serving picture-perfect.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole
Garnishes
Freshness is always a welcome contrast to the richness of this dish. Try a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or a handful of sliced green onions just before serving. A little extra Parmesan is always a good idea for even more flavor and that irresistible cheesy finish.
Side Dishes
Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad tossed in a bright vinaigrette. You can also serve it with steamed broccoli, roasted vegetables, or a side of warm, crusty bread to soak up every drop of that luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting or want to treat your family, try spooning the casserole into individual ramekins for personal portions. For a touch of rustic charm, serve it straight from the baking dish at the table—family style always brings everyone closer!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just cover the baking dish with foil or transfer servings to an airtight container to keep everything fresh and delicious.
Freezing
This casserole is a true make-ahead hero! Store cooled, unbaked or baked portions tightly wrapped or in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. If you’re freezing before baking, add the crunchy topping just before putting it in the oven to preserve its texture.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through (about 20–25 minutes). You can also microwave individual servings in short bursts, but the oven gives you the best texture for both the creamy filling and the topping.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Thaw and drain the spinach well before adding it so the casserole doesn’t get watery. Frozen spinach makes things even more convenient without sacrificing any flavor.
What’s the best way to make this dish gluten-free?
To keep your Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole gluten-free, use a certified gluten-free cream of chicken soup and swap in gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs for the topping. Always double-check labels to be sure!
Can I add pasta or rice to this recipe?
Yes—if you want to make it more substantial, stir in cooked pasta or rice before baking. It turns the casserole into an even heartier, all-in-one comfort meal.
Is it okay to use rotisserie chicken?
Rotisserie chicken is perfect for this recipe and saves a ton of prep time. Just shred it and you’re ready to go—no additional cooking needed.
How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?
Make sure not to overbake the casserole. Pull it from the oven when the edges are bubbling and the top is barely golden. Letting it rest a bit before serving also keeps the sauce creamy and the casserole moist.
Final Thoughts
You deserve more cozy, soul-warming meals in your life, and Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is one that truly delivers every time. Give it a try this week—your future self (and everyone gathered at the table) will thank you!
Print
Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the creamy goodness of this Chicken and Spinach Casserole. Loaded with tender chicken, flavorful spinach, and a rich, cheesy sauce, this easy-to-make dish is a comforting delight for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cups fresh spinach (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 (10 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Topping (optional):
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Sauté Spinach: In a skillet, sauté spinach in olive oil until wilted. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine chicken, cooked spinach, garlic, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add mozzarella and half of the Parmesan.
- Assemble and Bake: Spread mixture in the baking dish. Optional: top with crushed crackers mixed with melted butter and remaining Parmesan. Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken can be used for convenience.
- Enhance with cooked pasta or rice.
- For a low-carb option, omit the topping and serve with cauliflower rice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
