Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese Delight

September 14, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: chicken and spinach casserole with cream cheese! This dish is like a warm hug after a long day. It’s become my go-to for family gatherings because it’s hearty, delicious, and always leaves everyone asking for seconds. I remember the first time I made it; my kids were skeptical at first, but once they took a bite, their eyes lit up! The creamy texture combined with the freshness of spinach and the savory chicken is just unbeatable. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights. You really can’t go wrong with this one – it’s a family meal that brings everyone together around the table, and trust me, the leftovers (if there are any!) are just as tasty the next day!

chicken and spinach casserole with cream cheese - detail 1

Ingredients for Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this delicious chicken and spinach casserole with cream cheese. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: You can use leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand. Just shred it up into bite-sized pieces.
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped: I love using fresh spinach for its flavor and nutrients. Make sure to chop it up so it mixes well throughout the casserole.
8 oz cream cheese, softened: Let this sit out for a bit before you start, so it’s easy to mix. The creaminess is what makes this dish so comforting!
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: This will give the casserole that gooey, cheesy topping everyone loves. If you want to get adventurous, try using a different cheese!
1/2 cup sour cream: Adds a lovely tang and creaminess to the dish. You can substitute with Greek yogurt if you’re looking for a lighter option.
1 cup chicken broth: This helps to keep the casserole moist and flavorful. If you have homemade broth, even better!
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Because who doesn’t love a little garlic flavor? It’s a must for that extra kick!
1/2 teaspoon salt: Just the right amount to enhance all those delicious flavors.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A little bit of heat to balance out the creaminess.
1 cup bread crumbs: This will create a crunchy topping. You can use regular, panko, or even crushed crackers for a twist!

How to Prepare Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

Preparing this chicken and spinach casserole with cream cheese is a breeze! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a hearty meal ready to wow your family.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole will bake evenly and come out perfectly bubbly.
Mix the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped spinach, softened cream cheese, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. I like to use a spatula or a wooden spoon to mix everything until it’s well combined—you want that delicious creaminess to coat all the ingredients!
Spread it out: Once everything is mixed, transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. I usually use a 9×13 inch dish, but anything similar will work. Make sure to spread it out evenly so that every bite is filled with flavor!
Add toppings: Now for the fun part! Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, followed by an even layer of bread crumbs. This combo is what gives the casserole that delightful crunch and melty goodness!
Bake it: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. The aroma will be irresistible, and trust me, you’ll want to keep peeking in to check on it!

Tips for Success

Now that you’re all set to make this chicken and spinach casserole with cream cheese, here are some tips to ensure it turns out absolutely perfect every time!

Don’t rush the mixing: Make sure your cream cheese is really softened before you start mixing. This helps it blend smoothly with the other ingredients, creating that creamy consistency we all love!
Adjust the cooking time: Ovens can vary quite a bit, so keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes. If you find it’s not golden and bubbly after 30 minutes, give it a few more minutes—just don’t let it dry out!
Experiment with veggies: If you want to sneak in some extra nutrition, feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or even some artichokes. Just chop them up small so they mix well!
Make it ahead: This casserole is a fantastic make-ahead option. You can prepare it the night before and store it in the fridge, then just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat. It’ll save you time and stress!
For a spicier kick: If you like a bit of heat, try adding some crushed red pepper flakes or even a diced jalapeño to the mix. It’ll give your casserole a delightful zing!
Troubleshooting: If your casserole seems too dry when baking, you can drizzle a little extra chicken broth over the top before it finishes cooking. This will add moisture and keep everything deliciously creamy!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to comfort food, the chicken and spinach casserole with cream cheese not only satisfies your cravings but also offers a decent nutritional profile! Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving (about 1 cup):

Calories: 350
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 30g

These values are estimates, but they highlight that this casserole can be a hearty yet balanced option for your family meals. It packs a protein punch thanks to the chicken and cream cheese while also sneaking in some greens with the spinach. Enjoy knowing that you’re digging into something both comforting and nourishing!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this casserole ready for the oven in no time!
Flavor-packed: The combination of creamy cheese, tender chicken, and fresh spinach makes every bite a taste sensation.
Family-friendly: This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Healthy ingredients: Loaded with protein and nutrients, it’s a comforting meal that doesn’t skimp on nutrition.
Versatile: Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or swapping out cheeses for a fun twist!
Great for leftovers: The flavors meld even more after sitting, making it just as delicious the next day.

Variations on Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

The beauty of this chicken and spinach casserole with cream cheese is its versatility! Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own. Here are some fun variations to try:

Veggie overload: Swap out the spinach for other greens like kale or Swiss chard, or throw in some diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or even zucchini for an extra veggie boost.
Different cheeses: While mozzarella is a classic, feel free to experiment! Try adding cheddar for a sharper taste or pepper jack for a spicy kick. You could even mix in some feta for a Mediterranean twist!
Herb it up: Fresh herbs can bring an amazing flavor boost. Chopped parsley, basil, or thyme can add a refreshing touch and elevate the dish even more.
Make it spicy: If you like a little heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or sprinkle red pepper flakes into the mixture. That spicy contrast with the creamy cheese is divine!
Whole grain goodness: For a healthier twist, use whole wheat bread crumbs or top with crushed whole grain crackers instead. It adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber!
Switch up the protein: Not in the mood for chicken? Try using cooked turkey or even shredded beef! You can also make it vegetarian by omitting the meat entirely and adding more mushrooms or beans.

Don’t hesitate to mix and match these ideas! Cooking is all about having fun and making dishes that you and your family will love. Enjoy experimenting and finding your perfect combo!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing leftovers from your chicken and spinach casserole with cream cheese is super easy, and trust me, you’ll want to keep every last bite! Here’s how to do it:

Storing leftovers: Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure it’s sealed well to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other fridge odors.
Freezing: If you want to save some for later, this casserole freezes beautifully! Portion it into freezer-safe containers or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Just remember to label it with the date so you know when it was made!

When you’re ready to enjoy those delicious leftovers, reheating is key to keeping that creamy goodness intact:

Reheating in the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can remove the foil in the last 5 minutes to get that cheesy top nice and bubbly again!
Microwave reheating: If you’re in a hurry, you can quickly reheat individual portions in the microwave. Just place a serving on a microwave-safe plate, cover it loosely with a paper towel to keep moisture in, and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through. Make sure it’s hot all the way through before digging in!

With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy this comforting casserole for days to come. It’s the kind of dish that just keeps on giving, and I promise, it’ll taste just as good the second time around!

FAQ About Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

Got questions about making the chicken and spinach casserole with cream cheese? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that might pop up as you whip up this delicious dish:

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen spinach works just fine. Just be sure to thaw it and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the mix. This helps keep the casserole from getting too watery.

What if I don’t have cream cheese?
If you’re out of cream cheese, no problem! You can substitute it with Greek yogurt or cottage cheese for a similar creamy texture. Just keep in mind that it might slightly change the flavor, but it’ll still be tasty!

How long can I store leftovers?
You can store leftovers in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Trust me, it makes for a great quick lunch!

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! This casserole is perfect for making ahead. You can prep everything the night before, store it in the fridge, and then just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake it. It saves you time and hassle!

What should I serve with this casserole?
This casserole is quite hearty on its own, but you can serve it with a simple side salad or some roasted vegetables to round out the meal. A nice crusty bread also pairs beautifully!

Can I add other proteins?
Of course! If you’d like to mix it up, shredded turkey or even cooked sausage can be delicious alternatives to chicken. Just make sure any meat you use is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole.

Is this casserole gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply swap out the regular bread crumbs for gluten-free ones. There are plenty of options available that taste great!

How can I make it spicier?
If you like a kick, try adding some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the mix. You can also use pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella for a spicy twist!

I hope these FAQs help you feel more confident as you dive into making this chicken and spinach casserole with cream cheese. Enjoy the cooking process, and remember, it’s all about having fun in the kitchen!

For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Chicken Pasta or Cheesy Broccoli and Chicken Casserole.

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.