Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole: A Delicious Comfort Dish Recipe
If you’re looking for a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal that checks all the boxes for creamy, cheesy goodness, look no further than Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole: A Delicious Comfort Dish. This casserole brings together tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and a luscious, velvety sauce, all topped off with a golden, crunchy layer that’s simply irresistible. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, this dish radiates warmth, comfort, and a touch of nostalgia in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is how a handful of everyday ingredients come together to create something truly special. Each element adds its own charm, whether it’s a boost of flavor, a creamy texture, or a pop of color that makes the dish shine.
- Cooked, shredded chicken (2 cups): A rotisserie chicken saves time and adds loads of flavor, but poached chicken works beautifully, too.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For sautéing the aromatics and building a foundation of flavor.
- Small onion, diced: Brings a subtle sweetness and depth to the casserole.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Adds a savory punch that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
- Fresh spinach, chopped (3 cups): Gives a vibrant, earthy note and gorgeous color; swap in frozen spinach if needed.
- Cream of chicken soup (10 oz can): The key to the creamy, comforting texture we all crave.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Lends tanginess and extra creaminess; Greek yogurt makes a great substitute.
- Milk (1/2 cup): Helps create the perfect, pourable sauce consistency.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Melts beautifully for that irresistible cheese pull.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Adds a nutty, salty kick that balances out the richness.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Brings all the flavors together.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a gentle hint of spice.
- Dried thyme (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses the casserole with a subtle herbal note.
- Cooked pasta or rice (2 cups, optional): Makes the dish extra hearty and helps soak up all that creamy sauce.
- Crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs (1/2 cup): The final touch for a golden, crunchy topping that contrasts the creamy filling.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole: A Delicious Comfort Dish
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little olive oil or nonstick spray. This ensures your Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole: A Delicious Comfort Dish lifts out easily and keeps cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Spinach
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for three to four minutes until it’s soft and translucent. Toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for just thirty seconds, releasing that wonderful aroma. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until it wilts down, which happens quickly—watch it transform into a beautiful emerald green!
Step 3: Mix Up the Creamy Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, the sautéed onion, garlic, and spinach mixture, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, mozzarella, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and thyme. If you’re adding pasta or rice, fold that in now. Stir everything until it’s well combined and the mixture looks creamy and inviting.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Spoon the creamy chicken and spinach mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth out the top so it bakes up evenly. Sprinkle the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs over the surface, creating a layer that will crisp up beautifully in the oven.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for a bubbling, cheesy casserole with a golden topping that promises crunch in every bite. Let the casserole rest for about five minutes before serving—this helps it set up and makes serving easier.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole: A Delicious Comfort Dish
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can really make your casserole pop! Try a sprinkle of chopped parsley or fresh thyme to add color and a hint of herbal brightness. A light dusting of extra Parmesan right before serving is always a hit, adding an extra layer of savory goodness.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs well with a crisp green salad tossed in a zesty vinaigrette, or roasted vegetables like carrots and asparagus for a colorful, well-rounded plate. Warm dinner rolls or garlic bread also make the perfect companions, ready to soak up every bit of creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, spoon the hot Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole: A Delicious Comfort Dish into individual ramekins for a personalized touch. You can also serve it over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes or couscous to switch up the base and keep things exciting for leftovers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra casserole (lucky you!), simply transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It keeps well for up to three days, and the flavors seem to meld and deepen as it sits.
Freezing
Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole: A Delicious Comfort Dish is a fantastic make-ahead meal. Assemble the casserole but hold off on baking and adding the topping. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, add the topping, and bake as directed.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole loosely with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. For single servings, a microwave works perfectly—just cover and heat in 1-minute bursts until hot. Add a splash of milk if the casserole seems a bit thick.
FAQs
Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey is a wonderful substitute in this recipe and brings the same tender, juicy texture. It’s a great way to reinvent holiday leftovers into something comforting and new.
Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this casserole gluten-free by using gluten-free cream of chicken soup and choosing gluten-free pasta or rice. Swap the cracker topping for gluten-free breadcrumbs to keep everything safe for those avoiding gluten.
Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?
Of course! Feel free to toss in sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or even steamed broccoli. Just make sure any additional veggies are cooked and drained well to prevent excess moisture.
What can I use if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer to skip canned soup, you can whip up a quick homemade version with chicken broth, a bit of flour or cornstarch, and milk—thickened on the stovetop. It’s a simple swap that keeps the dish creamy and delicious.
How do I prevent the topping from getting soggy?
To keep your topping crisp, wait to add the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs right before baking. If you’re making the casserole ahead, store the topping separately and sprinkle it on just before popping the dish into the oven.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about sharing Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole: A Delicious Comfort Dish with family and friends. It’s hearty, simple, and packed with comforting flavors that always bring smiles to the table. Give it a try soon, and don’t be surprised if it becomes your new go-to favorite!
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Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole: A Delicious Comfort Dish Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a comforting and delicious main course featuring tender shredded chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich blend of cheeses baked to golden perfection. This easy-to-make dish combines creamy soup, sour cream, and fragrant herbs for a satisfying weeknight dinner that warms the soul.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie or poached)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 (10 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Optional Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta or rice
- 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook Spinach: Add the chopped fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked spinach mixture, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. If using, fold in the cooked pasta or rice evenly into the mixture.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly for uniform cooking.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole to create a crunchy golden crust.
- Bake: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes after baking before serving to let the flavors meld and the dish set.
Notes
- You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to add extra protein and a tangy flavor.
- This casserole works wonderfully with leftover turkey as a tasty alternative to chicken.
- If using frozen spinach, be sure to thaw and drain thoroughly to remove excess moisture and avoid a watery casserole.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
