This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is a comforting and creamy dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s packed with tender chicken pieces, fresh spinach, and that smooth, rich cream cheese that brings everything together in the best way. The flavors mix nicely, creating a cozy meal that’s both satisfying and simple to make.
I love making this casserole when I want something that’s easy to prep but still feels special. The cream cheese adds a nice tang and creamy texture that makes each bite delicious without being too heavy. One tip I always follow is to give the spinach a good squeeze after cooking so the casserole doesn’t get watery—it really helps keep the texture just right.
This dish is perfect for sharing with family or friends, especially on a casual weekend dinner. I like to serve it with a light salad or some crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce. It’s the kind of meal that everyone asks for again, and I’m always happy to make it because it’s both tasty and comforting in the best possible way.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Using cooked chicken breast gives a nice, tender texture. Leftovers or rotisserie chicken work great and save time.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds brightness, but frozen spinach is an easy and budget-friendly option. Just be sure to squeeze out extra water to avoid a soggy dish.
Cream Cheese: This is what makes the casserole extra creamy and tangy. You can swap with Neufchâtel for a lighter option or use ricotta for a milder taste.
Mozzarella & Parmesan: Mozzarella melts nicely, while Parmesan adds a bit of sharpness. For a different flavor, try cheddar or Gruyère instead.
Heavy Cream: Adds richness and smoothness. Half-and-half is a good lower-fat choice, or use whole milk for a lighter version but it may be less creamy.
How Can I Avoid a Watery Casserole?
The key to keeping this casserole from getting watery is managing moisture, especially from spinach and chicken.
- If using fresh spinach, cook it down and squeeze it tightly in a clean towel to remove excess water.
- For frozen spinach, fully thaw and press out moisture before adding to the mix.
- Use cooked chicken without added liquids to prevent extra water in the casserole.
- Don’t cover the casserole while baking; letting steam escape helps keep the topping crispy and the dish thick.
Following these tips keeps the casserole creamy without becoming soggy, giving you a perfect texture every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Skillet – I use it to cook the onion, garlic, and spinach; it’s easy to transfer straight to the baking dish later.
- Mixing bowl – for blending the cream cheese, cream, and seasonings to get a smooth, even mixture.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to measure out ingredients accurately without any guesswork.
- Greased casserole dish – a 2-quart size works well; it makes serving easy and prevents sticking.
- Oven – for baking until bubbly and golden; a standard oven handles this with ease.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap the chicken with cooked turkey or ham for different flavors—tastes great and uses leftovers.
- Add sliced mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for extra texture and flavor bursts.
- Use a mix of cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or pepper jack instead of mozzarella for a twist.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes or paprika for a bit of heat and smoky flavor before baking.
Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 10 oz fresh spinach (or frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 25 minutes to bake. In total, plan for around 35-40 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect cozy weeknight meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Onion, Garlic, and Spinach:
Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Next, add the spinach. If fresh, cook until wilted and then drain well to remove extra water. If frozen, heat it through and squeeze out any liquid. Set aside.
2. Mix the Creamy Base and Chicken:
In a mixing bowl, stir together the softened cream cheese and heavy cream until smooth and creamy. Add the cooked chicken, sautéed spinach, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all flavors evenly.
3. Assemble and Bake the Casserole:
Grease a casserole dish and pour the chicken and spinach mixture into it, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top.
Bake uncovered in the preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
4. Rest and Serve:
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes to set. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top before serving for a nice fresh kick.
This creamy chicken and spinach casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or some crusty bread. Enjoy your comforting meal!
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the frozen spinach and squeeze out as much water as possible to keep the casserole from getting watery.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake it a few extra minutes until heated through and bubbly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the creamy texture.
Can I Substitute the Cream Cheese?
You can substitute cream cheese with Neufchâtel for a lighter option, or use ricotta cheese for a milder flavor and similar creaminess.