Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic!

Photo bythe handing dog

There's something about a warm casserole that just screams comfort food. Whether it's the creamy layers, the satisfying mix of flavors, or the way it brings everyone to the table, casseroles are a staple in many homes. One dish that combines heartiness and health in a delicious way is the Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole. With tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich, creamy base, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or even meal prepping for the week.

This casserole offers a beautiful balance between flavor and nutrition. The creaminess of the chicken soup and sour cream melds perfectly with the sharpness of cheddar cheese, while the fresh spinach adds a healthy twist. Whether you're a fan of rice or pasta, this casserole is flexible enough to accommodate both, making it a versatile dish for all tastes. Plus, the golden breadcrumb topping provides a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy interior.

Recipe: Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
• 1 cup cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup cooked rice (or pasta)
• ½ cup onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for breadcrumbs)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Mix the Casserole Filling:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, chopped spinach, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, half of the cheddar cheese, cooked rice (or pasta), onion, garlic, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix well until fully combined.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
   Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
4. Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping:
   In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil until well coated. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole.
5. Bake:
   Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the top is golden brown.
6. Serve:
   Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole brings together wholesome ingredients and rich flavors. It’s the perfect meal to serve when you’re craving something warm and filling. The ease of preparation and versatility make it a go-to recipe that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.

The Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a comforting and delicious dish that brings together tender chicken, creamy cheese, and nutritious spinach for a meal that satisfies everyone at the table. It’s a perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner or even for meal prep throughout the week. The mix of chicken, spinach, and cheese is versatile, and this dish can be paired with sides like rice, pasta, or vegetables to round out the meal.

This casserole generally features a combination of cooked chicken (like shredded rotisserie), spinach, and a creamy base of cream of chicken soup or a homemade cheese sauce. It’s typically topped with breadcrumbs for added crunch, and it bakes until bubbly and golden brown. For a little extra kick, Italian seasoning and garlic often make their way into the mix. Whether you’re using fresh or frozen spinach, remember to drain any excess liquid to keep the casserole from becoming watery.

What’s great about this dish is its adaptability. You can swap out ingredients or add extras, such as mushrooms, sausage, or more vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers. It’s also easy to make ahead of time or freeze for later use, although freezing may slightly alter the texture of the creamy sauce​(Alyona’s Cooking)​(The Spruce Eats).

For additional variations or a breakdown of the nutritional content, you can visit sources like Allrecipes and The Spruce Eats, which offer detailed recipe instructions, along with helpful tips on how to make the most out of this dish​(Allrecipes)​(The Spruce Eats).