Creamy Chicken And Spinach Casserole Recipe

Are you looking for a warm, comforting, and flavorful dish that the entire family will enjoy? Look no further than this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole. It’s the perfect balance of protein, veggies, and rich creaminess, making it a satisfying meal that can be prepared easily. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this casserole is sure to impress. Read on for the full recipe and cooking tips to make this dish absolutely irresistible!

What is a Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole?

A Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a baked dish that combines tender pieces of chicken, sautéed spinach, and a rich creamy sauce, all layered with cheese and baked to perfection. Casseroles are a staple comfort food in many households, and this recipe adds a nutritious twist with the inclusion of spinach. It’s an excellent way to get your greens while enjoying the richness of a creamy, cheesy sauce.

The dish is versatile and can be adapted to suit different tastes or dietary needs. You can use leftover chicken, adjust the level of creaminess, or switch up the cheeses for a new flavor profile. Plus, the casserole format makes it an excellent choice for meal prep, as it can be made in advance and stored in the fridge or freezer.

Ingredients List for Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s first gather all the necessary ingredients. Having everything prepped and ready will make the cooking experience much smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 10 oz fresh spinach (or frozen, thawed and drained)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter for sautéing
• ¼ cup flour (for thickening the sauce)
• Optional: ¼ cup breadcrumbs for a crispy topping

Substitutions and Variations

If you want to tweak the recipe, here are some variations and substitutions you can consider:

• Chicken Substitution: You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer flavor, or even use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time.
• Cheese Options: If you don’t have mozzarella or Parmesan, feel free to substitute with cheddar, Gruyère, or a mix of your favorite cheeses. Cream cheese can also be added for extra creaminess.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. You could also replace spinach with kale or Swiss chard.
• Low-Carb Option: Skip the flour and breadcrumbs, and thicken the sauce with a bit of cream cheese or xanthan gum for a keto-friendly version.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Use a dairy-free cheese for a lactose-intolerant version of this casserole.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that we have all the ingredients and some optional variations, let’s get started on cooking your Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole. Follow this guide step by step for a perfectly creamy and savory dish.

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your casserole bakes evenly and develops a golden, bubbly top.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side, until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to cool slightly. Once cool, shred or dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
3. Sauté the Spinach and Vegetables: In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil or butter if needed. Sauté the diced onion for about 2 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, toss in the fresh spinach (or thawed frozen spinach) and sauté until wilted. If you are using frozen spinach, make sure it’s drained well to avoid excess moisture.
4. Make the Cream Sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the flour and stir continuously for about 1 minute to make a roux. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Season the sauce with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Stir in half of the Parmesan cheese until melted.
5. Combine Everything: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, sautéed spinach mixture, and the creamy sauce. Stir everything together until the chicken and vegetables are well coated in the sauce.
6. Assemble the Casserole: Lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray. Pour the chicken and spinach mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the remaining Parmesan cheese and the shredded mozzarella. If you’re using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them on top for added crunch.
7. Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole dish in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you prefer a more golden-brown crust, switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, but keep a close eye to avoid burning.
8. Cool and Serve: Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set and makes it easier to serve.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Undercooking or Overcooking the Chicken: Make sure your chicken is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole, but not overdone, as it will cook a little more in the oven.
• Watery Casserole: Ensure that your spinach is well-drained if using frozen, and don’t skip the flour in the sauce as it helps thicken the mixture.
• Not Preheating the Oven: This can result in uneven baking. Always preheat your oven to ensure even cooking and a perfectly golden top.

Serving and Presentation Tips

A casserole is a hearty dish that can stand alone, but there are ways to elevate its presentation. Here are some tips for making your Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole look as good as it tastes.

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley, basil, or even a little dill over the top of the baked casserole for a pop of color and added freshness.
• Crispy Topping: If you want to add some crunch, consider sprinkling breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the cheese before baking. You can also add a drizzle of olive oil or melted butter to help the topping brown nicely.
• Side Dish Pairings: Serve your casserole with a simple side salad, some garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

When serving this casserole, use a wide spatula to cut and scoop out portions cleanly. Serve hot, and make sure each plate gets a good mix of chicken, spinach, and melted cheese for the full experience. This casserole pairs wonderfully with a side of rice or mashed potatoes, or even a slice of crusty bread to soak up the extra sauce.

Presentation Ideas for Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

For an eye-catching presentation, consider using a colorful or ceramic baking dish. The bright green of the spinach against the creamy sauce and golden cheese will look beautiful. You can also serve individual portions in ramekins for a more elegant presentation, especially if you’re hosting guests.

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, let it come to room temperature before baking.
• Freezing Tip: This casserole freezes well. After assembling, cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
• Leftover Tip: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy topping, or microwave if you’re in a hurry.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes! Using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken will save time and make this dish even easier to prepare.

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, simply replace the flour with a gluten-free alternative like almond flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce.

What can I use instead of spinach?
You can use kale, Swiss chard, or even broccoli as a substitute for spinach in this recipe.

How long does this casserole last?
When stored in the fridge, it lasts for about 3 days. If frozen, it can be kept for up to 3 months.

Can I add pasta to this casserole?
Absolutely! Cooked pasta like penne or rotini can be mixed into the casserole for an even heartier meal.

Conclusion

This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is the ultimate comfort food with its rich, creamy sauce, tender chicken, and nutritious spinach. It’s easy to prepare, perfect for meal prep, and can be tailored to your preferences with simple substitutions. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a dinner party, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Try it out and enjoy the comforting flavors of this delicious dish!

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