Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: the creamy chicken and spinach casserole! It’s like a warm hug on a plate. I remember the first time I made it; the smell of garlic and cheese wafting through the kitchen had everyone flocking to the table, and the best part? It’s so easy to whip up! This dish is creamy, hearty, and loaded with flavor. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some greens with the spinach while still keeping it super satisfying. Trust me, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this casserole is always a hit. I just know you’re going to love it as much as I do!
Ingredients for Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole
Gather these delicious ingredients to create your creamy chicken and spinach casserole. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: I love using rotisserie chicken for convenience, but feel free to use any cooked chicken you have on hand.
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped: The fresher, the better! It adds a beautiful color and a nutritious punch.
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup: This is the secret to that creamy texture. You can use homemade or store-bought!
- 1 cup sour cream: For extra creaminess and a slight tang that balances the flavors perfectly.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Because cheese makes everything better, right?
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: They give a nice crunch on top; I prefer seasoned ones for added flavor.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: This adds a rich, nutty flavor that elevates the whole dish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A must-have for that aromatic punch!
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: It complements the garlic and adds depth.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season to your liking!
How to Prepare Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole
Making this creamy chicken and spinach casserole is a breeze! First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot when your casserole is ready. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped spinach, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well blended—this will be your creamy base!
Next, transfer that delicious mixture into a greased baking dish. I like to use a 9×13 inch dish, but any similar size will work. Now, it’s time to top it off! Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the mixture, then add the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese for that golden, crispy topping.
Pop it in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. You’ll want to keep an eye on it, as the aroma will have you drooling! Once it’s out of the oven, let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly before digging in. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!
Tips for Success
Want to take your creamy chicken and spinach casserole to the next level? Here are my top tips for success! First, don’t skip the seasoning—salt and pepper really make a difference, so taste as you go! If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick. Also, using fresh spinach is ideal, but if you have frozen on hand, just make sure to thaw and squeeze out any excess water before mixing it in.
For a creamier texture, you can mix in a bit of cream cheese along with the sour cream. And if you want a crunchy topping, consider broiling the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes for that perfect golden finish. Finally, let it rest for a few minutes out of the oven—this helps it set and makes serving easier. Trust me, these little tips will elevate your casserole game!
Nutritional Information for Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole
Now, let’s take a peek at the nutritional values for this creamy chicken and spinach casserole! Each serving (about 1 cup) packs a satisfying punch with approximately 350 calories. You’ll find around 20 grams of fat, which gives it that deliciously rich flavor, and 25 grams of protein to keep you feeling full and energized. It also contains about 15 grams of carbohydrates, making it a balanced meal option.
With just 2 grams of sugar and 600 milligrams of sodium, it’s a dish you can enjoy without worrying too much about your dietary goals. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients you use. So, whether you’re counting macros or just enjoying a hearty meal, this casserole checks a lot of boxes!
Serving Suggestions for Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole
To make your meal even more delightful, consider serving the creamy chicken and spinach casserole with a fresh side salad. A simple mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the casserole perfectly. You could also pair it with some crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up all that delicious sauce—trust me, you won’t want to leave a drop behind!
If you’re looking for something heartier, roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers can add a lovely color and texture to your plate. And don’t forget about a nice glass of white wine or sparkling water with a slice of lemon to refresh your palate. These pairings will elevate your dining experience and leave everyone raving about your wonderful meal!
Frequently Asked Questions about Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole
Got questions about the creamy chicken and spinach casserole? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I often hear:
Can I use leftover chicken for this casserole? Absolutely! Leftover roast chicken or even turkey works great. Just shred it up, and you’re good to go!
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can! Prepare everything and assemble it in your baking dish, then cover it and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What if I don’t have fresh spinach? No problem! You can use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw it and squeeze out any excess water to avoid a soggy casserole.
Can I add other veggies? For sure! Feel free to toss in some cooked broccoli, mushrooms, or bell peppers. It’s a great way to sneak in even more nutrients!
How do I reheat leftovers? Simply cover the casserole with foil and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Enjoy those creamy, cheesy flavors again!
Storage & Reheating Instructions for Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole
Storing your creamy chicken and spinach casserole is super easy! After it cools down to room temperature, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, so you can enjoy those creamy leftovers later in the week! If you’re planning to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just wrap it up well in aluminum foil or freezer-safe containers, and it can last for up to 2 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your casserole again, reheating is a breeze. For the best results, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover the casserole with foil to prevent it from drying out, and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s heated through. You can also microwave individual portions; just be sure to cover them to keep the moisture in. Enjoy those delicious flavors all over again!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this casserole comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich and Creamy: The combination of cream of chicken soup and sour cream creates a luscious, velvety texture that’s simply irresistible.
- Flavor Packed: The blend of garlic, onion, and cheese takes the flavor to the next level, ensuring every bite is bursting with taste.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or switch up the cheese—there’s no limit to how you can make this dish your own!
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting casserole, making it a surefire hit at the dinner table.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready, perfect for stress-free meals!
Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole: 7 Reasons You’ll Crave It
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A creamy and flavorful chicken and spinach casserole.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, spinach, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Feel free to add other vegetables.
- Can be made ahead and stored in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: creamy chicken and spinach casserole
