Best Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe: Savory, Cheesy, and Perfectly Baked

Imagine tender chicken breasts nestled in a bed of creamy, cheesy spinach, all baked to perfection with a golden crust of melty mozzarella. This Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a one-pan wonder that delivers comfort food in every bite. Whether you're feeding a family or preparing a hearty meal for yourself, this recipe combines rich flavors with the simplicity of preparation, making it an instant favorite.

Photo byInsanely Good Recipes

The first time I made this dish, I was in search of something quick yet indulgent, and this recipe hit all the right notes. From the garlic-infused chicken to the velvety cream cheese and spinach mixture, it’s a go-to for weeknight dinners when you crave something satisfying but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

If you enjoy this recipe, be sure to visit Insanely Good Recipes for more incredible dishes like this one!

A Brief Backstory

Spinach and chicken are a classic combo found in cuisines around the world, but casseroles became especially popular in American kitchens during the 20th century. They’re beloved for their convenience, but this dish stands out because it’s so flavorful and nutritious. The cream cheese and mozzarella provide richness, while the spinach adds a light, healthy touch.

Ingredients You'll Need:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven
   Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking, and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken
   Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create four even cutlets. Use a rolling pin to gently pound the thicker parts, ensuring all the cutlets are of equal thickness. This step guarantees even cooking.
3. Marinate the Chicken
   In a large bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of olive oil with the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cutlets to this marinade, tossing to coat. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
4. Cook the Spinach
   In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the fresh spinach and sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring until wilted. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. Make the Creamy Spinach Mixture
   In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Stir in the cooked spinach, ½ cup of shredded mozzarella, and the Parmesan cheese (if you’re using it). Mix everything together until well combined.
6. Assemble the Casserole
   Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing the excess to drip off. If you’d like an extra layer of flavor, you can quickly sear the chicken in the skillet for 1-2 minutes on each side. Otherwise, arrange the raw cutlets in a single layer in your prepared baking dish.
7. Layer and Bake
   Spread the creamy spinach mixture evenly over the chicken cutlets. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese over the top. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is melted and golden.
8. Let It Rest and Serve
   Once baked, allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This will let the flavors settle and make slicing easier. Enjoy!

Cooking Tips:

• Use Chicken Cutlets: Pre-cut chicken saves you time and ensures even cooking. No need to worry about uneven pieces that may overcook or undercook.
• Frozen Spinach Option: If you’re using frozen spinach, be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly. Squeeze out any excess water to prevent a soggy casserole.
• Searing the Chicken: Searing the chicken before baking adds a slight caramelization to the meat, enhancing the flavor even more.

Variations:

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with thick slices of tofu or use a meat substitute to keep the dish hearty but meat-free.
• Low-Carb Option: If you want to cut carbs, serve this casserole over cauliflower rice or enjoy it as-is for a wholesome meal.
• Extra Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to increase the nutritional value.

Fun Fact:

Did you know that casseroles gained massive popularity in the U.S. during the 1950s? They were seen as the perfect dish for working families because they could be prepared ahead of time, frozen, and baked when needed. This Chicken and Spinach Casserole continues that tradition of convenient yet delicious meals.

I hope you enjoy this delightful casserole as much as I do! Don’t forget to check out Insanely Good Recipes for more incredible ideas. If you try this dish, leave a comment below, and share it with your friends. Make sure to follow me for more delicious recipes like this one!