If you’re craving something comforting, nourishing, and downright delicious, you’ve got to try this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe. It blends tender chicken with fresh spinach and a rich, velvety sauce, all baked to golden perfection. This dish feels like a warm hug from the inside out and is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress family and friends without too much fuss. Trust me, once you make this casserole, it will quickly become a favorite go-to in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The great thing about this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe is that it calls for simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create layers of flavor, texture, and color. Each item on the list plays an important role, from the tender chicken to the creamy sauce and the fresh green spinach for a vibrant touch.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the onions and garlic to unlock their flavors.
- 1 small yellow onion, diced: Brings sweetness and a gentle bite for depth in the base.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Gives an aromatic punch that pairs beautifully with chicken and spinach.
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken: The main protein that keeps this dish hearty and satisfying.
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach: Adds a pop of color and wholesome nutrients, wilting down to the perfect texture.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Creates the creamy, comforting sauce that ties everything together.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Boosts creaminess and adds a slight tang that brightens the casserole.
- 1/2 cup milk: Lightens the sauce just enough so it’s silky without being too thick.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Gives a subtle depth and slight zing that enhances the overall flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Infuses an herbal note, adding complexity and warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the other flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds gentle heat and rounds out the seasoning.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: Melts flawlessly, making every bite cheesy and luscious.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty punch that complements the mozzarella.
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or fusilli): Provides a satisfying base that soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping): Creates a golden, crunchy crust that contrasts nicely with the creamy interior.
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, melted, for topping): Helps the breadcrumbs toast perfectly and adds a buttery finish.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and cook until it turns translucent and tender, about 4 to 5 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and stir for just 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant — be careful not to burn it! Then, stir in the shredded chicken and fresh baby spinach. Cook these together until the spinach softens but still retains its lovely deep green color, around 2 to 3 minutes. This step is where the flavors really begin to develop.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
While the chicken and spinach are cooking, grab a large mixing bowl. Combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything until smooth and creamy. Then fold in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and the grated Parmesan cheese for a rich, melty sauce that will coat every bite of your casserole.
Step 3: Combine Pasta, Chicken Mixture, and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce mixture, then gently fold in your warm chicken and spinach sauté. Make sure everything is well combined so each forkful will have the perfect balance of creamy sauce, tender chicken, fresh greens, and comforting pasta.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Transfer your luscious mixture to a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese on top for that bubbly, cheesy crust. If you want some extra crunch, combine the breadcrumbs with the melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese. Pop the casserole into a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until it’s golden, bubbly, and absolutely irresistible.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once your casserole is baked to perfection, allow it to rest for five minutes. This lets the sauce thicken slightly, making it easier to serve and even more delightful to eat.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe even further, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or basil on top after baking. A light dusting of red pepper flakes can add a lovely touch of heat if you enjoy a little kick. For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle a little extra olive oil or add a few shavings of Parmesan cheese just before serving.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines wonderfully as a satisfying main course, but pairing it with crisp, refreshing sides can balance the rich creaminess. Think simple mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette, roasted veggies like carrots or asparagus, or a bright tomato and cucumber salad. A crusty loaf of bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to wow guests, serve this creamy chicken spinach casserole stacked in individual ramekins for perfectly portioned comfort food. Alternatively, serve it family-style straight from the casserole dish for that cozy, communal vibe. You can also scoop it atop a bed of steamed rice or mashed potatoes if you want a more substantial meal with extra texture variety.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This casserole keeps incredibly well in the fridge for up to four days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to preserve freshness and prevent the sauce from drying out. It reheats beautifully and often tastes even more flavorful the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze the Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe either before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to three months. Bake from frozen, just add extra baking time. If freezing after baking, wrap it well and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To warm up leftovers, place a portion in the microwave until heated through, stirring halfway for even heat. For best texture, reheat in a 350°F oven covered with foil for about 15–20 minutes. If you added breadcrumbs topping, uncover the last few minutes to restore that crispy crust.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! If using frozen spinach, thaw and squeeze out as much liquid as possible before adding it to the skillet. This helps prevent the casserole from becoming too watery.
What kind of chicken works best for the casserole?
Rotisserie chicken is an easy, flavorful shortcut, but poached or baked chicken breasts shredded by hand work great too. Just make sure the chicken is cooked through beforehand.
Can I substitute the sour cream for something else?
Yes! Greek yogurt is a fantastic lighter alternative that still delivers creaminess and a slight tang to maintain the dish’s rich flavor.
Is this casserole kid-friendly?
Definitely! The mild flavors, cheesy sauce, and simple ingredients make it a hit with kids and adults alike. You can even sneak in extra veggies like finely chopped carrots or zucchini.
How can I add a little spice to the recipe?
Try adding red pepper flakes to the sauce or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture if you enjoy some heat. It adds a fabulous flavor layer without overpowering the dish.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a soul-warming dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and full of wholesome ingredients, this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe is your new best friend. It’s straightforward to make, endlessly comforting, and sure to bring smiles around your dinner table. Give it a try and watch it become a treasured favorite that you’ll return to time and time again.
Print
Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for family dinners. Combining tender shredded chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich blend of creamy cheese and sauce, then baked to bubbly perfection, this casserole is both flavorful and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Chicken and Veggies
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or poached)
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach
Sauce and Cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Other
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, melted, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole later.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 4–5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook Chicken and Spinach: Stir in the shredded chicken and fresh spinach; cook until the spinach has wilted, approximately 2–3 minutes. Remove the skillet from heat.
- Prepare Sauce Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and well blended.
- Add Cheeses and Pasta: Mix in 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese to the sauce mixture. Then fold in the cooked pasta and the chicken-spinach mixture, stirring until everything is combined evenly.
- Transfer to Casserole Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish and pour the mixture into it, spreading evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Add Topping (Optional): If using, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle this over the cheese layer to create a crunchy topping.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors settle and makes it easier to serve.
Notes
- For a lighter alternative, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Use kale instead of spinach if preferred.
- This casserole freezes well—assemble and freeze before baking for an easy make-ahead meal.
