If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, flavorful dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. With tender shredded chicken, vibrant spinach, and a luscious creamy sauce all baked to bubbly perfection, it offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors that the whole family will love. Best of all, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role in creating a harmonious balance of taste, texture, and color, turning humble pantry staples into a standout meal.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides a flavorful base for sautéing vegetables and adds a lovely richness.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cooked and shredded: The star protein that makes this casserole hearty and satisfying.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor when softened.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant warmth that enhances the entire dish.
- 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped: Adds vibrant green color and a mild, fresh taste packed with nutrients.
- 1 (10 oz) can cream of chicken soup: Creates a creamy, savory base that ties everything together effortlessly.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and extra creaminess to the sauce.
- 1/2 cup milk: Lightens the sauce while maintaining smooth texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and elevates all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle heat and complexity.
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers a fragrant herbal note that complements chicken beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the garlic flavor for added depth.
- 2 cups cooked pasta (such as penne or rotini): Provides a sturdy, comforting base that soaks up the creamy sauce perfectly.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey, delicious pockets throughout the casserole.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, salty finish on top.
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs: Creates a crispy, golden crust that adds delightful crunch.
- 1 tablespoon melted butter: Helps the breadcrumbs brown beautifully and adds richness.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Vegetables
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook it slowly until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. This step unlocks the natural sweetness of the onion and sets a flavorful foundation.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Spinach
Stir the minced garlic into the softened onion and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, careful not to burn it. Then toss in the roughly chopped fresh spinach and sauté just until it wilts, about 2 minutes. This ensures the spinach retains its bright color and fresh flavor while blending beautifully with the other ingredients.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Sauce Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, salt, pepper, dried thyme, and garlic powder. Whisk these together thoroughly to create a smooth, creamy sauce that will coat the chicken, pasta, and veggies evenly.
Step 4: Combine Chicken, Vegetables, and Pasta
Add the cooked shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, and cooked pasta into the bowl with the creamy sauce. Gently toss everything together until every piece is coated with the luscious mixture, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Pour the creamy mixture into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top to create a cheesy, golden layer. In a small bowl, toss the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter until coated, then sprinkle this mixture on top to add a deliciously crunchy topping. Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and perfectly golden brown on top.
Step 6: Let It Rest Before Serving
Once the timer goes off, take the casserole out of the oven and allow it to cool slightly for about 5 minutes. This resting time helps the casserole set so it slices beautifully and all those wonderful flavors meld even more.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten this creamy dish with a fresh contrast, try sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or basil on top just before serving. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also add a lovely zing that lifts all the creamy richness.
Side Dishes
Pair your casserole with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance the creaminess. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or carrots also work wonderfully to add more color and nutrition to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy dinner party, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or small cast-iron skillets, making each portion feel special and inviting. You can also offer a topping bar with extra grated cheese, fresh herbs, or chili flakes, so guests can customize their own serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, this casserole will stay delicious and safe to eat for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. For best results, freeze it before baking in a freezer-safe dish wrapped tightly with foil and plastic wrap. It will keep for up to 2 months—just thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat individual servings in the microwave until hot throughout, or rewarm the whole casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent excessive browning.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this casserole?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and Parmesan provide great meltability and flavor, you can swap in cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of feta for a different twist. Just make sure to choose cheeses that melt well.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted bell peppers. You could also add plant-based protein alternatives or beans to keep the dish hearty.
What pasta works best in this casserole?
Short, sturdy pasta shapes such as penne, rotini, or shells are ideal because they hold the sauce well and provide lots of little pockets of creamy goodness in every bite.
How spicy is this casserole?
This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe has a gentle, savory flavor profile with no spicy heat. If you enjoy a kick, try adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika to the sauce.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time and bake it later?
Definitely! You can assemble the entire casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that combines ease, comfort, and incredible flavor in one delicious dish. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, it’s bound to become a favorite go-to meal that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your table with smiles. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy creating this cozy casserole that tastes as good as it feels!
Print
Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a comforting and flavorful baked pasta dish that combines tender shredded chicken, sautéed spinach, and a rich creamy sauce topped with melted mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and a crispy buttery panko crust. Perfect for a family dinner, this casserole is easy to prepare and packed with wholesome ingredients for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cooked and shredded
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
Sauce
- 1 (10 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Other Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta (such as penne or rotini)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Sauté Aromatics and Spinach: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and sauté until wilted, approximately 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Mix Sauce and Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and garlic powder. Stir in the cooked shredded chicken, sautéed onion, garlic, spinach mixture, and cooked pasta, mixing until everything is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Prepare and Add Topping: In a small bowl, toss the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter until well combined. Sprinkle this over the cheese layer evenly to create a crunchy topping.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the breadcrumb topping turns golden brown.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving to let it set and enhance flavors.
Notes
- You can use rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation.
- For added vegetables, incorporate cooked mushrooms or steamed broccoli into the casserole.
