Introduction
This Spinach Chicken Casserole with Cream Cheese & Mozzarella is the ultimate comfort food that brings together tender chicken, creamy cheese, and nutritious spinach in one cozy dish. Perfect for weeknights or even weekend gatherings, it delivers a hearty, cheesy flavor that satisfies both kids and adults alike. If you love creamy baked dinners, this casserole is about to become one of your favorites.
My Recipe Story
Every home cook has a go-to casserole recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate, and this Spinach Chicken Casserole quickly became mine. It started one evening when I wanted to make something simple yet comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. I had some chicken breast, fresh spinach, and a block of cream cheese waiting to be used. With mozzarella on hand, the dish practically created itself. After one bite, my family asked me to make it again the following week, and it has since become a staple in our home. Over time, I experimented with adding more spices, different cheeses, and serving it alongside a variety of sides. The result is this deliciously creamy casserole that is now a beloved recipe in our rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy weeknight dinner – requires minimal prep and bakes in under an hour.
- Creamy and cheesy – cream cheese and mozzarella melt into a luscious sauce.
- Nutritious – packed with fresh spinach, offering a boost of vitamins and fiber.
- Kid-friendly – cheesy flavor makes it a hit even with picky eaters.
- Versatile – perfect as a main dish with rice, pasta, or crusty bread on the side.
Ingredient Breakdown
The beauty of this casserole lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Chicken breast serves as the protein-rich base, offering a lean and tender bite. When baked with cream cheese, it becomes incredibly juicy and flavorful, as the cheese locks in moisture and adds creaminess. Fresh spinach not only gives the dish its vibrant green color but also balances the richness with freshness and nutrition.
Cream cheese is the star ingredient that creates the creamy base. It blends perfectly with shredded mozzarella, giving the casserole a gooey and melty texture that makes every forkful irresistible. Mozzarella brings the signature stretchy cheese factor, making the dish hearty and satisfying. For seasoning, garlic, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs help round out the flavors with warmth and depth. If you want to elevate the dish, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan adds extra sharpness and flavor complexity.
You can also play around with the ingredients depending on your pantry. For instance, frozen spinach works just as well as fresh, and rotisserie chicken can be swapped in for a quicker prep. No matter what variation you choose, the combination of chicken, spinach, and cheese always hits the mark.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- 9×13-inch casserole dish
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven mitts
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prep the chicken – Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your casserole dish with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil. On a cutting board, cut your chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes. Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This ensures each piece of chicken is flavorful before being baked in the creamy sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the spinach – Wash and dry fresh spinach leaves, then give them a rough chop. If using frozen spinach, thaw completely and squeeze out excess water using a clean kitchen towel. This step is crucial, as too much moisture from spinach can water down the casserole.
Step 3: Mix the creamy base – In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, a splash of milk, Italian herbs, and half of the shredded mozzarella. Stir until smooth and creamy. This mixture will coat the chicken and spinach, creating the rich base of the casserole.
Step 4: Assemble the casserole – Add the seasoned chicken and chopped spinach into the cream cheese mixture. Toss everything together until evenly coated. Transfer the mixture into your prepared casserole dish, spreading it into an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top for that irresistible golden crust.
Step 5: Bake to perfection – Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese topping is bubbly and golden. If you like extra browning, switch the oven to broil for the last 2 minutes.
Step 6: Rest and serve – Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly and makes serving easier. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired, and enjoy your creamy, cheesy chicken casserole.
Variations & Substitutions
One of the best things about casseroles is how customizable they are. If you want to switch things up, try swapping mozzarella with cheddar or provolone for a different flavor profile. For a low-carb twist, you can add more vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or broccoli to bulk up the dish without extra starch. If you don’t have cream cheese, ricotta or cottage cheese can be used for a lighter alternative. For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a little heat. You can also use leftover rotisserie chicken or turkey instead of raw chicken breast, reducing the baking time by about 10 minutes.
Expert Tips & Troubleshooting
- Tip 1: Always squeeze out excess moisture from spinach to avoid a watery casserole.
- Tip 2: Use room-temperature cream cheese for easier mixing and a smoother sauce.
- Tip 3: For extra flavor, sauté the chicken briefly in olive oil before adding it to the casserole mixture.
- Tip 4: Let the casserole rest after baking so it holds together better when serving.
Storage, Freezing & Make-Ahead
This casserole stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, or use the microwave for quick reheating. If you’d like to freeze it, assemble the casserole but do not bake. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. You can also fully bake, cool, and freeze individual portions for easy grab-and-reheat meals.
Serving Ideas & Pairings
This creamy chicken casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. For a lighter option, serve with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. If you’re craving something heartier, spoon the casserole over cooked rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes. It’s also fantastic with garlic bread or a warm baguette to soak up the creamy sauce. A glass of crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, complements the richness of the dish beautifully.
FAQ
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh? Yes! Just thaw and squeeze out all the excess liquid before adding it to the casserole.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
What other cheeses can I use? Cheddar, Monterey Jack, provolone, or even a blend of cheeses all work wonderfully in this dish.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked? The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and appear white and juicy inside.
Can I make this casserole low-carb? Yes. Simply skip serving it with rice or pasta and add more low-carb vegetables like zucchini, cauliflower, or broccoli.
Final Thoughts
This Spinach Chicken Casserole with Cream Cheese & Mozzarella is more than just a quick dinner—it’s a dish that brings comfort and joy to the table. Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, it’s sure to become a staple in your weekly meal plan. Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing a dish for friends, this casserole never disappoints. With its simple ingredients, versatile variations, and make-ahead options, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll turn to again and again. Give it a try tonight and watch it become a household favorite!
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Spinach Chicken Casserole with Cream Cheese & Mozzarella
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Creamy, cheesy, and packed with spinach, this comforting chicken casserole is the perfect weeknight dinner. A hearty and family-friendly favorite!
Ingredients
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2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
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2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or 1 cup frozen, thawed and drained)
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
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1/4 cup milk
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp onion powder
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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1/2 tsp salt
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1/4 tsp black pepper
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1 tbsp olive oil (for greasing the dish)
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Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with olive oil.
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Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
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In a large bowl, mix softened cream cheese, milk, and 3/4 cup of shredded mozzarella until smooth.
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Add spinach and seasoned chicken to the cheese mixture and stir until well coated.
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Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish and top with the remaining mozzarella.
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Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until chicken is cooked through and cheese is bubbly and golden.
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Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.
Notes
Use thawed frozen spinach if fresh isn’t available, making sure to squeeze out excess moisture. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Serve with rice, pasta, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
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