It’s one of those weeknight dinners that has become a staple in our home, and for very good reason. The Cheesy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is pure comfort food in a dish. From the moment the aroma of melting cheese and savory chicken starts wafting through the kitchen, you know you’re in for a treat. Even my pickiest eaters, who sometimes turn their noses up at vegetables, happily devour this casserole, spinach and all! The creamy, cheesy sauce coats tender pieces of chicken and bright spinach, all topped with a golden, crunchy breadcrumb crust. It’s incredibly easy to throw together, making it perfect for busy evenings, yet it feels special enough to serve to guests. Trust me, this Cheesy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds – and the recipe!

Ingredients

• Chicken Breast: 2 pounds, boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded or diced. Provides the protein base and savory flavor of the casserole.
• Frozen Spinach: 10 ounces, frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry. Adds a boost of nutrients and subtle earthy flavor, balancing the richness of the cheese.
• Cream Cheese: 8 ounces, cream cheese, softened. Creates a creamy and tangy base for the sauce, binding the ingredients together.
• Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups, shredded cheddar cheese. Contributes a sharp, cheesy flavor and melty texture that is essential to a classic casserole.
• Milk: 1 cup, milk (any kind, dairy or non-dairy). Thins out the sauce to the perfect consistency and adds moisture to the casserole.
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced garlic. Infuses the casserole with aromatic and savory garlic notes, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• Onion: 1/2 cup, chopped yellow onion. Provides a mild, sweet onion flavor that builds depth in the sauce and complements the other ingredients.
• Butter: 2 tablespoons, unsalted butter. Used for sautéing the onion and garlic and adding richness to the breadcrumb topping.
• Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup, panko or regular breadcrumbs. Creates a crispy, golden-brown topping that adds texture and visual appeal to the casserole.
• Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup, grated Parmesan cheese. Enhances the cheesy flavor and adds a salty, nutty note to the breadcrumb topping.
• Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon, dried oregano. Provides a warm, slightly peppery herb flavor that complements the chicken and spinach.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste. Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients and balances the overall taste of the casserole.
• Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste. Adds a touch of spice and depth of flavor to the casserole.
• Optional: Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste (for a touch of heat). Adds a subtle kick of spice if desired, without overpowering the other flavors.

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This step is crucial for preventing the casserole from sticking and ensuring even baking. Using a standard 9×13 inch dish ensures that the casserole cooks through evenly and provides ample surface area for that delicious golden-brown crust.
2. Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Sautéing the onion and garlic first mellows their flavors and brings out their sweetness, creating a more nuanced base for the casserole sauce. Don’t skip this step, as it significantly enhances the overall taste.
3. Combine Cream Cheese and Milk: In the same skillet with the onion and garlic, reduce the heat to low. Add softened cream cheese and milk. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy. Using low heat is important to prevent the cream cheese from scorching or becoming grainy. Stir continuously to ensure a smooth and homogenous sauce. The cream cheese and milk form the luscious, creamy foundation of the casserole.
4. Incorporate Spinach and Seasonings: Add thawed and squeezed dry spinach to the skillet with the cream cheese sauce. Stir to combine well. Season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Make sure the spinach is thoroughly squeezed dry to prevent the casserole from becoming watery. Distribute the spinach evenly throughout the sauce. Seasoning at this stage allows the flavors to meld together as the casserole bakes. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed to your preference.
5. Add Cooked Chicken and Cheddar Cheese: Stir in the cooked and shredded or diced chicken and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese into the spinach and cream cheese mixture. Mix until everything is well combined and the cheese is starting to melt. Ensure the chicken is evenly distributed throughout the casserole for consistent flavor in every bite. Reserving some cheddar cheese for topping ensures a beautifully cheesy and golden crust.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the chicken and spinach mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Using a greased baking dish makes serving and cleaning up much easier. Leveling the mixture ensures even cooking and a uniform presentation.
7. Prepare Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. The breadcrumb topping adds a delightful textural contrast to the creamy casserole and becomes wonderfully crispy and golden brown in the oven. Parmesan cheese enhances the flavor of the topping and adds a salty, savory note.
8. Bake the Casserole: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through, bubbly, and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven. You want to ensure the casserole is heated all the way through and the cheese is melted and gooey. The golden-brown breadcrumb topping is a visual cue that the casserole is ready.
9. Let it Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to serve and preventing it from being too runny. Resting also helps to distribute the heat evenly throughout the dish. Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

(Per Serving, approximately 6 servings per casserole)

• Serving Size: Approximately 1/6 of the casserole
• Calories: ~450 kcal
• Protein: 40g

Please note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with the exact brands and quantities of ingredients.

Preparation Time

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

This Cheesy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is wonderfully efficient for a satisfying and flavorful meal. The prep time primarily involves cooking the chicken (if not using pre-cooked), thawing and squeezing the spinach, chopping the onion and garlic, and shredding the cheese. The actual assembly of the casserole is quick and straightforward, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights. The baking time allows for the flavors to meld together beautifully and the casserole to become perfectly heated and bubbly.

How to Serve

This versatile Cheesy Chicken and Spinach Casserole can be served in a variety of ways, making it suitable for different occasions and preferences. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

• As a Complete Meal: Serve the casserole as the main course for a satisfying and complete meal. It’s hearty enough to stand alone, especially when paired with a simple side.
• With a Fresh Salad: Balance the richness of the casserole with a light and refreshing side salad. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing, a Caesar salad, or a tomato and cucumber salad would all complement the casserole beautifully. The fresh greens and acidity of the dressing will cut through the creamy richness of the casserole.
• Alongside Roasted Vegetables: Add extra nutrients and flavor by serving the casserole with roasted vegetables. Broccoli, asparagus, Brussels sprouts, carrots, or green beans roast well and provide a contrasting texture and flavor profile. Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and adds a healthy element to the meal.
• With Crusty Bread or Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread or garlic bread for soaking up the delicious creamy sauce. French bread, Italian bread, or sourdough bread are all excellent choices. Garlic bread adds an extra layer of flavor and indulgence.
• Over Rice or Pasta: For a more substantial meal, serve the casserole over cooked rice or pasta. White rice, brown rice, or pasta like penne, rotini, or egg noodles work well. This transforms the casserole into a heartier and more filling dish, perfect for those with bigger appetites.
• As a Potluck Dish: This casserole is an ideal dish to bring to potlucks, gatherings, or family dinners. It travels well, can be made ahead of time, and is always a crowd-pleaser. Its comforting and universally appealing flavors make it a hit at any event.
• For Weeknight Dinners: Its ease of preparation and delicious flavor make it perfect for busy weeknight dinners. You can prep the ingredients in advance, and the casserole bakes relatively quickly, making it a convenient and satisfying meal after a long day.

Additional Tips for the Best Cheesy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

To ensure your Cheesy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a resounding success every time, consider these helpful tips:

1. Use Pre-Cooked Chicken for Speed: For a quicker preparation, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken. Shred or dice the chicken and it’s ready to go. This significantly reduces the prep time, making it even more weeknight-friendly.
2. Ensure Spinach is Thoroughly Drained: Squeeze the thawed spinach really well to remove excess water. Excess moisture can make the casserole watery and dilute the flavor. Squeezing the spinach dry is crucial for achieving the desired creamy texture.
3. Don’t Overbake: Bake until the casserole is heated through and the topping is golden brown. Overbaking can dry out the chicken and make the sauce less creamy. Keep an eye on the casserole during the last few minutes of baking to prevent overcooking.
4. Customize the Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations. Monterey Jack, mozzarella, Gruyere, or pepper jack can be used in place of or in addition to cheddar for varied flavors. Different cheeses will melt and taste differently, allowing you to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
5. Add Extra Vegetables: Boost the nutritional value and flavor by adding other vegetables. Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or broccoli florets can be added to the spinach mixture. Adding vegetables not only enhances the flavor but also provides additional vitamins and fiber.
6. Spice it Up: For a spicier casserole, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or use pepper jack cheese. A dash of hot sauce can also be added for extra heat. Adjust the level of spice to your personal preference.
7. Make it Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking directly from cold. This is a great time-saving tip for busy schedules or when preparing for gatherings.
8. Freeze for Later: This casserole freezes well. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed. Freezing makes it easy to have a comforting and delicious meal ready whenever you need it.

FAQ Section: Your Questions Answered About Cheesy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

Q1: Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
A1: Yes, you can use fresh spinach. You will need about 1 pound of fresh spinach. Sauté the fresh spinach in the skillet until it wilts down significantly before adding it to the sauce. Make sure to drain any excess liquid from the sautéed spinach. Frozen spinach is often preferred for casseroles because it’s pre-chopped and readily available, but fresh spinach works well too.

Q2: Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
A2: Yes, you can easily make this casserole gluten-free. Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping. Ensure all other ingredients, especially any seasonings, are also certified gluten-free if you are strictly avoiding gluten due to allergies or intolerance.

Q3: How do I reheat leftover Cheesy Chicken and Spinach Casserole?
A3: Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or microwave. For the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. In the microwave, heat individual portions on medium power in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Reheating in the oven helps to maintain the crispy topping, while microwaving is quicker for individual servings.

Q4: Can I substitute the cream cheese with something else?
A4: If you’re looking for a slightly lighter option, you could try using Neufchâtel cheese, which has a similar texture to cream cheese but with less fat. You could also use ricotta cheese for a different texture and flavor profile, though it will be less tangy and slightly grainier. Greek yogurt is another alternative, but it may make the sauce tangier and thinner, so you might need to adjust the amount of milk.

Q5: Can I add different seasonings or herbs?
A5: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the seasonings to your taste. Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or a pinch of nutmeg would all be delicious additions. Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme can also be added at the end for a fresh flavor boost. Experiment to find your favorite flavor combinations.

Q6: What kind of chicken is best to use for this casserole?
A6: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are generally recommended as they are lean and easy to shred or dice. You can also use chicken thighs for a richer flavor and more tender texture. Rotisserie chicken is a convenient option for pre-cooked chicken. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole.

Q7: Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
A7: While this is a Cheesy Chicken and Spinach Casserole, you can adapt it to be vegetarian. Substitute the chicken with white beans, cannellini beans, or chickpeas for a protein source. You could also add more vegetables like sautéed mushrooms or artichoke hearts to make it a hearty vegetarian casserole.

Q8: My breadcrumb topping isn’t getting crispy, what can I do?
A8: If your breadcrumb topping isn’t browning and crisping up enough, you can broil it for the last 1-2 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it while broiling to prevent burning. Make sure your oven rack is positioned in the upper third of the oven. Alternatively, ensure you have enough butter or oil in your breadcrumb mixture, as this helps them crisp up and brown.