Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole: A Heartwarming All-In-One Chicken and Spinach Recipe 🥘🌿🧀
1. Introduction
Discover the comfort and convenience of this easy dinner recipe with our Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole. Perfect for a healthy dinner for 2 or a family gathering, this dish combines tender cooked chicken, fresh spinach, and melty cheese in a delightful casserole dish. It’s not just a typical chicken spinach cheese recipe; it’s a versatile and wholesome chicken spinach basil recipe that is ideal for making ahead, serving as a company dinner, or quick weeknight meals. Looking for similar recipes? Explore our chicken recipes for more ideas.
2. Ingredients for Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (perfect for recipes using cooked chicken main dishes)
- 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
- 1/2 cup creamy sauce (made from cream cheese or sour cream)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Optional: cooked bacon bits for added flavor (check out our cheesy ground beef rice casserole)
3. Step-by-step Instructions for Creating the Perfect Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole
Preparation of Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare all ingredients by shredding the cooked chicken, chopping the fresh spinach, and gathering your cheese and sauces.
Cooking the Aromatic Base
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Then, add the cooked chicken and cook for another 2-3 minutes to warm through. For a smokier flavor, consider adding crisped bacon bits.
Assembling the Casserole
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken and garlic, chopped spinach, shredded cheese, and creamy sauce. Mix thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed. Season with salt and pepper to enhance flavor. For more quick preparation tips, visit our how to make chicken and broccoli pasta.
Baking to Perfection
Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Cover with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and cheese is melted. Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes to allow the top to brown slightly. This creates a cheesy, crispy topping that holds everything together.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole
Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. Place leftovers in an airtight container, like the JoyJolt Airtight Glass Food Storage Set. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage. To reheat, use a microwave or oven, and add a splash of milk or broth to maintain creaminess.
5. Serving Suggestions for Chicken Spinach Cheese Recipes
This versatile chicken spinach cheese recipe pairs well with a side salad, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables. For a complete meal, serve alongside our dinner options like roasted potatoes or rice. For those looking for a quick side, try our slow cooker creamy Tuscan chicken orzo.
6. Make Ahead Company Dinner Ideas with Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole
This dish is ideal for make ahead company dinner ideas because it can be assembled in advance and baked just before serving. It’s also excellent for potlucks, family gatherings, or weeknight meals when time is limited. Adjust ingredients to suit your taste or dietary requirements for a personalized touch.
7. Frequently Asked Questions about Chicken Spinach Cheese Recipes
Can I use fresh or frozen spinach for this casserole?
Both fresh and frozen spinach work well. If using frozen, make sure to drain excess water before adding to prevent a watery casserole. For fresh spinach, chop and sauté briefly to reduce moisture.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the cooked chicken with chickpeas, tofu, or a hearty vegetable mix. For more ideas on vegetarian casseroles, explore our vegetarian dinner recipes.
What are the best cheeses for this chicken spinach cheese casserole?
Cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses add different flavor profiles. Use cheese that melts well for a creamy texture and gooey topping.
8. Final Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole
For added flavor, sprinkle some CAROTE premium nonstick cookware for easy preparation and cleaning. Experiment with herbs like basil or thyme to elevate the flavor profile. This dish is perfect for slow cooker adaptations or quick oven baking, making it a flexible choice for busy weeknights or special occasions.
9. Conclusion
In summary, this chicken spinach cheese recipe combines wholesome ingredients into a delicious and versatile casserole dish. Whether you’re seeking all-in-one casserole recipes or a healthy dinner for 2, the creamy chicken and spinach casserole is sure to satisfy. Give it a try today and enjoy a flavorful, nutritious, and easy-to-make main dish that everyone will love!
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Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
Enjoy a comforting and nutritious Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole, a versatile all-in-one meal perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests. Combining tender shredded chicken, fresh spinach, melty cheese, and a creamy sauce, this dish is flavorful, wholesome, and easy to prepare. Whether you’re a fan of cheesy, spinach, or chicken recipes, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (see recipes using cooked chicken main dishes)
- 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
- 1/2 cup creamy sauce (made from cream cheese or sour cream)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Optional: cooked bacon bits for added flavor
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare all ingredients by shredding the cooked chicken, chopping the fresh spinach, and gathering cheese and sauces.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add cooked chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes to warm through. Optionally, add cooked bacon bits for extra flavor.
- In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, garlic, chopped spinach, shredded cheese, and creamy sauce. Mix thoroughly. Season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Cover with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly. Remove foil during the last 5 minutes to brown the cheese slightly.
Notes
- Ensure spinach is drained well if using frozen to prevent a watery casserole.
- Use a variety of cheeses for different flavor profiles.
- The casserole can be assembled ahead of time and baked later for convenience.
- For a healthier version, substitute cheese with nutritional yeast or use low-fat dairy options.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 340 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
