Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is a creamy, comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich cream cheese sauce all baked to bubbly perfection. The creamy texture mixed with the savory chicken and the slight earthiness of spinach makes this casserole a perfect family meal for any night of the week.
I love making this casserole because it’s so easy to put together, yet it feels like a special treat. The cream cheese adds just the right amount of smoothness without being heavy, and the spinach sneaks in some green goodness that everyone will enjoy without even noticing. It’s my go-to when I want something warm, filling, and pretty quick to throw in the oven.
This casserole is great served with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up all the creamy goodness. I always find that it tastes even better the next day, so it’s a great one to make ahead if you want an easy leftover meal. It’s one of those comforting dishes that make you feel cozy and satisfied every single time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless breasts are perfect here for even cooking and tender bites. You can swap for thighs if you prefer juicier meat, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
Fresh spinach: Fresh leaves wilt nicely in the skillet, adding color and nutrition. Frozen spinach works too—just thaw and squeeze out excess water first to avoid soggy casserole.
Cream cheese: This gives the casserole its creamy, smooth texture. Use full-fat for the best richness, or try a lighter cream cheese if you want to reduce calories.
Sour cream or heavy cream: Both bring creaminess but slightly different flavors. Sour cream adds tang, while heavy cream is milder and richer. Choose based on your taste preference.
Cheese: Mozzarella melts beautifully and creates that golden top, while Parmesan adds a nice sharp flavor. Feel free to mix in other melty cheeses like Gruyère or cheddar.
How Do You Get the Creamy Sauce Just Right Without It Being Too Thick or Runny?
Nailing the sauce texture is key. Here’s how I make sure it turns out smooth and creamy every time:
- Soften the cream cheese completely before mixing; this helps it blend smoothly with sour cream or cream without lumps.
- Stir in cheese gradually and mix thoroughly to avoid clumps.
- If the sauce seems too thick, add chicken broth a little at a time until you get a pourable, creamy consistency.
- Remember that baking will thicken the sauce more, so be okay with it being a bit loose at the start.
Following these tips will give you a rich and creamy casserole that coats the chicken and spinach nicely without being dry or watery.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – I like a big one to sear the chicken and cook the spinach all in one pan, saving time and dishes.
- Mixing bowls – for blending the cheese mixture easily without spills.
- Shovel or spoon – to spread the creamy mixture over the chicken and spinach evenly.
- Casserole dish – a 9×13-inch dish is perfect for baking everything together and getting those nice, bubbly edges.
- Oven – to bake the casserole until hot and golden on top.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for turkey or cooked shrimp for a seafood twist.
- Add a handful of cooked mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.
- Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika to give it a little kick.
- Use different cheeses like provolone or cheddar to change up the cheesy flavor profile.
Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream or heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- ½ cup chicken broth (optional, for extra sauce moisture)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
Time You’ll Need
This casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and roughly 25–30 minutes to bake. Expect a total cooking time of about 45 minutes, including resting time before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Sear the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked yet. Take the chicken out and set it aside.
2. Cook the Spinach and Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion (if using) and cook until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the fresh spinach and cook until just wilted, about 2 minutes. Remove the skillet from heat.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream or heavy cream, Italian seasoning, Parmesan cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix well until smooth and creamy. Stir in the spinach and garlic mixture from the skillet until everything is well combined. If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add chicken broth until you reach the right creamy consistency.
4. Assemble and Bake the Casserole
Spread a thin layer of the creamy spinach mixture on the bottom of a casserole dish. Arrange the seared chicken breasts on top of this sauce. Spoon the remaining creamy mixture over the chicken so it’s evenly covered. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top. Place the casserole dish in the oven, uncovered, and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to set. Serve warm and dig into this creamy, delicious Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese!
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the frozen spinach completely and squeeze out all excess water before adding it to the casserole. This helps prevent the dish from becoming watery.
Can I Substitute Greek Yogurt for Sour Cream or Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt is a great healthier alternative that adds creaminess and a touch of tang. Use the same amount, but be gentle when mixing to keep the texture smooth.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through to maintain the creamy texture.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Keep it covered in the fridge, then bake it fresh before serving. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the cold.