This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is the ultimate comfort food dish, perfect for a cozy night in or a potluck with friends. It combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich, creamy sauce, all topped with a generous layer of melted cheese. This casserole is easy to make, satisfying, and a great way to sneak in some extra veggies.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove skillet from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, blend sour cream, cream cheese, mayonnaise, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Step 5: Fold in cooked chicken, sautéed spinach mixture, mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan cheese until well combined.
Step 6: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and smooth the top. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan evenly over the surface.
Step 7: Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Comforting Flavors: The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and melted cheese is incredibly satisfying.
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal prep time and simple cooking steps, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this casserole with different cheeses, vegetables, or seasonings to suit your taste.
- Great for Meal Prep: This casserole can be made ahead of time and reheated, making it ideal for meal prepping.
- Hidden Veggies: It’s a great way to sneak in some extra spinach, especially for picky eaters.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot as a main course.
- Pair with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping into the creamy sauce.
- Accompany with a glass of crisp white wine or a light beer.
Tips:
- Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened for a smoother sauce.
- Don’t overcook the spinach; it should be wilted but still slightly firm.
- Adjust the amount of seasoning to your preference.
- Grease the baking dish well to prevent sticking.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover the casserole with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Per Serving, approximate)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 35g
- Sodium: 500mg
Conclusion:
This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its comforting flavors, easy preparation, and versatility make it a winner in any kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, this casserole is sure to impress. Enjoy!
5 Questions and Answers about This Recipe:
- Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach?
- Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the recipe. This will prevent the casserole from becoming too watery.
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
- What other vegetables can I add to this casserole?
- Feel free to add other vegetables such as sautéed mushrooms, chopped artichoke hearts, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just make sure to cook them slightly before adding them to the casserole.
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Yes, you can substitute the mozzarella with other cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or provolone. Choose a cheese that melts well and complements the other flavors in the casserole.
- How do I store and reheat leftovers?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or microwave covered in 1-minute intervals until hot.
