Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is a cozy and creamy dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Tender chunks of chicken and fresh spinach come together with smooth cream cheese to create a soft, comforting bake that’s perfect for family dinners or when you need something simple and satisfying.
I love making this casserole because it’s so easy to prepare but still feels special. The cream cheese adds a nice rich texture without being too heavy, and the spinach gives it a boost of freshness and color. It’s one of those dishes that can sit in the oven quietly doing its thing while you get everything else ready or just relax for a bit.
My favorite way to enjoy this casserole is straight from the oven alongside a crisp green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the creamy goodness. It’s the kind of meal that everyone can appreciate, whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself to a comforting, homemade meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Using boneless chicken breasts or thighs works well. Thighs stay juicier, but breasts cook faster. Leftover cooked chicken is a good shortcut too.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds great texture; if you use frozen, be sure to squeeze out all water so the casserole isn’t watery.
Cream cheese: This makes the sauce creamy and rich. If you don’t have cream cheese, try mascarpone or a mild soft cheese.
Heavy cream or half-and-half: Heavy cream gives a richer sauce, but half-and-half is lighter and still creamy. For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream.
Cheese topping: Mozzarella melts beautifully, and Parmesan adds a nice bite. Feel free to substitute with cheddar, fontina, or a blend of your favorites.
How Do I Get a Creamy Sauce Without it Becoming Watery?
Balancing moisture is key here. Follow these tips:
- Cook spinach well to release excess water, then drain or squeeze tightly if frozen.
- Melt cream cheese fully on low heat before adding cream to get a smooth sauce.
- Don’t add extra liquid until the cream cheese is melted; this helps sauce thicken evenly.
- Use an oven-safe skillet so you don’t have to move the dish and risk separating the sauce.
- Bake until bubbly and golden but avoid overbaking to keep the sauce from drying out.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Oven-safe skillet or casserole dish – I like this because it goes from stovetop to oven without changes.
- Chef’s knife – helps you cut chicken and chop vegetables quickly and safely.
- Large spoon or spatula – for stirring the sauce and mixing ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons – keep the ingredients balanced and easy to follow.
- Grater – for shredding cheese directly onto the casserole for a fresh topping.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cooked leftover turkey instead of chicken for a Turkey and Spinach version, perfect for holidays.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or sliced bell peppers to bring extra color and flavor to the filling.
- Mix in some crushed red pepper flakes or paprika for a little spicy kick.
- Swap mozzarella for pepper Jack or feta cheese for a different cheesy twist.
Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into chunks
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 8 oz fresh spinach (or frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: fresh thyme or parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes to prep and another 20-25 minutes to bake in the oven. Altogether, you can expect to have a warm and delicious meal ready in under 45 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Sear the Chicken:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil or butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken chunks and sear them until they’re golden brown on the outside but not fully cooked inside, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables and Create the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Cook them for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and translucent. Add the fresh spinach (or drained frozen spinach), and cook until the spinach wilts. Lower the heat and stir in the softened cream cheese until it melts smoothly. Pour in the heavy cream and mix well to create a creamy sauce. Stir in the dried Italian herbs and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
3. Assemble and Bake:
Return the seared chicken pieces to the skillet, gently nestling them into the creamy spinach sauce. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top. Place the skillet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
4. Serve:
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if you like. Serve warm alongside rice, pasta, or crusty bread for a cozy, hearty meal.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method in a sealed bag. Pat the chicken dry before searing for the best browning.
Can I Substitute the Cream Cheese?
Absolutely! If you don’t have cream cheese on hand, mascarpone or ricotta cheese can work as alternatives, though they may make the sauce slightly less thick. Just soften them before adding to the skillet.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of cream if the sauce seems dry.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole a few hours ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. Just add the cheese topping and bake it fresh when ready to serve for best results.