Cozy Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe for Families
Whipping up a delightful chicken and spinach casserole can transform ordinary weeknight dinners into something truly spectacular.
Comfort arrives in a single baking dish, promising warmth and flavor in every bite.
Layers of tender chicken mingle with vibrant spinach, creating a harmonious blend that satisfies deep hunger.
Creamy textures wrap around perfectly seasoned ingredients, making each forkful a memorable experience.
Home cooks appreciate how simple yet impressive this dish becomes with minimal preparation.
Cheese adds a golden, melted crown that makes the entire casserole irresistible.
Watching faces light up around the table, you’ll know this recipe has become an instant favorite.
Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Goodness
Ingredients for Chicken Spinach Casserole
For the Protein:For the Base:For the Greens:For the Seasonings:For the Topping:For the Binding:How to Bake Creamy Chicken Spinach Casserole
Step 1: Warm Up the Oven
Set your oven to a cozy 350F (175C) and let it heat up while you prepare the delicious casserole.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Chicken Blend
In a large mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:Stir everything together until the mixture looks smooth and well-blended.
Step 3: Spread in Baking Dish
Grab a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and pour in the chicken and spinach mixture. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the dish.
Step 4: Create Crunchy Cheese Topping
In a separate bowl, mix together:Drizzle olive oil over the mixture and stir until the breadcrumbs look glossy and well-coated.
Step 5: Add the Topping
Sprinkle the cheesy breadcrumb mixture evenly over the chicken and spinach layer, making sure to cover the entire surface.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Slide the casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top turns a beautiful golden brown and the edges are bubbling with deliciousness.
Tips to Nail Chicken Spinach Casserole
Variations for Chicken Spinach Casserole
Pairings to Serve with Spinach Casserole
Storage Advice for Chicken Spinach Casserole
Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keeps fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Transfer casserole to a freezer-safe container, seal tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Label with date and contents.
Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Preheat oven to 350°F. Cover casserole with aluminum foil to prevent drying. Warm for 15-20 minutes until heated through, removing foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp the topping.
FAQs
The combination of cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and melted cheese creates a rich, velvety texture that makes this casserole exceptionally creamy and comforting.
Yes, you can substitute fresh spinach. Just chop it finely and slightly reduce the moisture by sautéing it briefly before mixing into the casserole to prevent excess liquid.
Absolutely! This casserole reheats well and can be prepared in advance. You can assemble it and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking, making it perfect for busy weeknights or preparing meals ahead of time.
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Creamy Chicken And Spinach Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
Comforting chicken and spinach casserole blends rich flavors in a hearty one-dish meal that promises pure satisfaction. Cheesy, herb-infused layers meld together, creating a delightful dinner you’ll savor with every delicious bite.
Ingredients
Main Protein:
- 2 cups (473 ml) cooked chicken, shredded
Cheeses:
- 1 cup (226 grams) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup (113 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
Vegetables and Greens:
- 2 cups (60 grams) fresh spinach, chopped
Creamy Base:
- 1 cup (240 ml) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup (226 grams) sour cream
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping:
- 1 cup (120 grams) breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the center for even cooking.
- In a spacious mixing bowl, thoroughly blend shredded chicken, chopped spinach, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until the ingredients form a uniform mixture.
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and carefully transfer the chicken and spinach blend, spreading it into an even layer that covers the entire surface.
- Create the crispy topping by combining breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese in a separate bowl. Drizzle olive oil over the mixture and gently toss until the breadcrumbs are completely coated and glistening.
- Distribute the seasoned breadcrumb mixture uniformly across the chicken layer, ensuring complete coverage for a crunchy, golden finish.
- Slide the casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, watching for a bubbling texture and a rich golden-brown topping that signals perfect doneness.
Notes
- Enhance flavor by using freshly minced garlic instead of garlic powder for a more robust taste profile.
- Opt for rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra moisture and richness to the casserole.
- Make it gluten-free by substituting regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers.
- For a lighter version, replace sour cream with Greek yogurt and use low-fat cream of chicken soup to reduce calories.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 410 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 27 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
Ethan Caldwell
Founder & Culinary Innovator
Expertise
Farm-to-table cooking, Seasonal recipe creation, Culinary storytelling, Food photography and styling
Education
The Chef’s Academy (Indianapolis, IN)
Ethan didn’t just fall in love with food, he grew into it, surrounded by fields, farmers’ markets, and family meals that told a story.
After sharpening his skills at The Chef’s Academy, he took his passion straight into the farm-to-table movement, working side-by-side with local growers and seasonal flavors.
He believes every recipe should feel like a walk through a summer market: colorful, fresh, and full of possibility.
Outside the kitchen, Ethan’s idea of a perfect day is hiking mountain trails, digging into heirloom vegetables, and hosting casual dinners where seconds are always encouraged.