Description
Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is the ultimate comfort food! Tender chicken, creamy spinach, and melted cheese come together in a rich, flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. This easy, one-pan meal is packed with protein and low in carbs, making it a deliciously satisfying option for the whole family.
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Prepare the Chicken
- Slice chicken breasts in half horizontally to create four thinner pieces.
- Pound the thicker ends with a rolling pin to ensure even thickness.
- Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, mix 1 tablespoon olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat the chicken pieces in the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes.
- Sauté the Spinach
- Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add spinach and cook, stirring, until wilted (about 2-3 minutes).
- Set aside.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
- In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Stir in the wilted spinach, ½ cup shredded mozzarella, and Parmesan (if using).
- Mix until well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole
- Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer in the baking dish.
- Spread the cream cheese and spinach mixture evenly over the chicken.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake the Casserole
- Bake for 20-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Rest & Serve
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan, if desired.
Notes
- Use fresh spinach for the best texture and flavor. If using frozen, drain it well.
- Let the cheese brown by broiling for 2-3 minutes at the end.
- Make it extra creamy by adding a splash of heavy cream or chicken broth.
- Sear the chicken first for a richer flavor before baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American