Indulge in the sophisticated fusion of flavors offered by this Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese. This dish combines tender chicken and vibrant spinach with a creamy sauce that envelopes them in warmth. Uniquely luxurious yet incredibly simple to prepare, it transforms ordinary ingredients into a delightful centerpiece that will elevate any dining occasion.
Why Make This Recipe
- Effortless Yet Elegant: This casserole comes together in one dish, saving both time and cleanup, while still impressing guests.
- Minimal Ingredients: Crafted with straightforward components, it showcases the natural flavors of chicken and fresh spinach.
- Impressive Flavor: The creamy texture of the cream cheese melds with the savory spices, creating a rich depth that transcends typical casseroles.
Ingredients
Base
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
Sauce
- 8 oz cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Topping
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- Fresh herbs, finely chopped (such as parsley or thyme, for garnish)
How to Make Chicken and Spinach Casserole
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a perfectly baked casserole.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, blend the room temperature cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Stir in the shredded mozzarella, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, creating a rich and creamy sauce.
- Combine Ingredients: Gently fold in the shredded chicken and chopped spinach until all components are evenly coated in the creamy mixture.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spoon the mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it evenly to create a uniform layer.
- Add Topping: In a small bowl, mix the panko bread crumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle this golden topping over the casserole, achieving a delightful crunch when baked.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: After removing from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving for a burst of color and flavor.
How to Serve Chicken and Spinach Casserole
For a sophisticated presentation, serve the casserole directly from the baking dish, garnished with finely chopped herbs. Pair it with a light salad adorned with a citrus vinaigrette to enhance the vibrant flavors. Offer artisan bread on the side to soak up the creamy sauce.
How to Store Chicken and Spinach Casserole
To maintain texture and flavor, allow the casserole to cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, cover with foil to prevent the top from browning too quickly and reheat in a low oven, allowing it to warm evenly.
Tips to Make Chicken and Spinach Casserole
- Sauté the spinach: For additional depth, sauté the spinach briefly in olive oil before mixing it into the casserole to enhance its earthy flavors.
- Experiment with cheeses: Try using different types of cheese, such as gouda or feta, to add a unique twist to the dish.
- Add a zing: Incorporate a splash of lemon juice for a refreshing lift to the creamy sauce.
- Use leftover roast chicken: This dish is ideal for utilizing leftover roast chicken, making it both resourceful and delicious.
Variation
Consider replacing chicken with shrimp for a delightful seafood twist, or substitute the cream cheese with a ricotta and spinach mixture for a lighter version. Delicate herbs such as dill or tarragon can also be used for an aromatic enhancement.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead. Simply cover it and refrigerate until you are ready to bake.
Can I freeze Chicken and Spinach Casserole?
Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing, and it will last for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Certainly! Substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini, and follow the remaining steps for a delicious vegetarian casserole.
Conclusion
This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese reflects simplicity and elegance, inviting creativity in the kitchen. Its rich flavors and inviting aromas promise a delightful dining experience that’s both refined and approachable. Share your thoughts or creative twists on this recipe in the comments—how would you make this dish your own?
Print
Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A luxurious yet simple casserole combining tender chicken and vibrant spinach enveloped in a creamy sauce, perfect for elevating any dining occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 8 oz cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- Fresh herbs, finely chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, blend cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Stir in mozzarella, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Gently fold in the shredded chicken and chopped spinach.
- Spoon the mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
- Mix panko bread crumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Let it rest for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Notes
For more flavor, sauté the spinach briefly in olive oil before mixing it in. You can also experiment with different types of cheese or add a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg