Cheesy Spinach Chicken Casserole is my lifesaver for quick dinners. It requires minimal prep and bakes in one dish. Juicy chicken pairs perfectly with melted cheese. The spinach adds a fresh, vibrant touch. The cheesy topping makes it irresistible. I highly recommend trying it!
Contents
Cheesy Spinach Chicken Casserole recipe
Cheesy spinach chicken casserole is a popular and family-friendly dish. It combines tender chicken, creamy cheese, and fresh spinach. The chicken is juicy and flavorful, while the melted cheese creates a rich, gooey texture. Spinach adds a subtle earthy note and a pop of color.
It’s a perfect balance of indulgence and nutrition, ideal for family dinners or potlucks. The casserole is warm, satisfying, and brings a homely feel to any meal. This dish feels like a hug on a plate!
Here is how to make the cheesy baked spinach and chicken casserole:
Cheesy spinach chicken casserole
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast shredded or diced
- 3 cups fresh spinach chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese for mixing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese for topping
- ½ cup cream cheese softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ cup milk or chicken broth for extra flavor
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix chicken, spinach, mozzarella, cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and milk until well combined.
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese, ensuring full coverage for a gooey, cheesy finish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
- Add an extra ½ cup of mozzarella to the topping for a stretchier, meltier layer.
- Swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for a slightly tangy, creamy twist.
- Perfect with garlic bread, pasta, or roasted veggies for a complete meal.
Nutrition
SIMILAR RECIPES
Pairing suggestions
Cheesy Spinach Chicken Casserole pairs well with many side dishes and beverages:
- Side Dishes
- Mashed potatoes balance the casserole’s richness.
- Steamed vegetables add a fresh contrast.
- Garlic bread soaks up the casserole’s sauce.
- Cauliflower gratin enhances the meal’s flavor.
- A green salad adds a refreshing contrast.
- Drinks
- Apple cider contrasts with the creamy casserole.
- Chardonnay complements creamy, cheesy flavors.
- Sparkling water cuts through the dish’s richness.
- Iced tea balances the cheesy flavor.
- Pinot Noir pairs with chicken and spinach.
- Light beer refreshes the palate.
- Herbal tea offers a soothing finish.
Variations
Cheesy Spinach Chicken Casserole is adapted in numerous ways. Here are some popular variations:
- Low-Carb/Keto-Friendly Version
- Replace milk/chicken broth with heavy cream or unsweetened almond milk.
- Use full-fat cream cheese and sour cream.
- Add 1 cup of cauliflower rice for extra texture.
- Spicy Southwest Twist
- Add 1 diced jalapeño or 1 teaspoon chili powder to the mixture.
- Replace Italian seasoning with 1 teaspoon cumin and ½ teaspoon smoked paprika.
- Top with a mix of cheddar and pepper jack cheese.
- Add ½ cup of black beans or corn for extra flavor.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream after baking.
- Mediterranean-Inspired Recipe
- Replace Italian seasoning with 1 teaspoon oregano and ½ teaspoon thyme.
- Add ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped) and ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese to the mixture.
- Use a mix of mozzarella and feta for topping.
- Dairy-Free/Vegan Option
- Replace chicken with 2 cups of cooked chickpeas or shredded tofu.
- Use dairy-free cheese alternatives for mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan.
- Substitute cream cheese and sour cream with cashew cream or coconut cream.
- Use unsweetened plant-based milk.