Are you looking for a hearty, delicious meal that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and the healthy touch of spinach? Look no further! This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole recipe is the perfect blend of comfort and nutrition, making it an ideal option for weeknight dinners or gatherings. With easy-to-follow steps and readily available ingredients, you'll have a mouth-watering meal on the table in no time. Read on for a complete guide to making this delightful dish!

What is a Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole?
A creamy chicken and spinach casserole is a one-pan meal that layers succulent chicken with fresh spinach, a rich and creamy sauce, and a crispy, golden topping. Casseroles are known for their convenience, as they can be prepped in advance and then baked to perfection. This dish is perfect for those who want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and spinach offers a well-rounded dish that can easily become a family favorite.
Ingredients List for Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious casserole:
For the Chicken and Spinach Filling:
- 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 to 2 lbs), cooked and shredded
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped (or substitute with frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
- 1 cup mushrooms (optional but recommended for an extra layer of flavor)
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole milk preferred for creaminess)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dijon mustard (for a slight tang)
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for extra cheesiness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried oregano
For the Topping:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko breadcrumbs work great for extra crunch)
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Ingredients List for Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole (Substitutions and Variations)
This dish is versatile, so feel free to modify it based on your preferences or dietary needs.
Substitutions:
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a richer, juicier flavor.
- Frozen spinach can replace fresh spinach; just be sure to thaw and drain it well.
- For a lighter version, swap out heavy cream with Greek yogurt or light sour cream.
- For gluten-free needs, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and gluten-free flour in the sauce.
- If you're dairy-free, replace the butter with coconut oil, the milk with almond milk, and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
Variations:
- Add bacon or ham to the chicken mixture for extra savory goodness.
- Swap out the chicken for turkey, making this a great dish to use up Thanksgiving leftovers!
- Throw in extra vegetables like zucchini, broccoli, or bell peppers for added nutrition and texture.
- For a spicy twist, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making a creamy chicken and spinach casserole is simple. Follow these steps for a flawless dish!
- Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it's hot and ready when the casserole is assembled.
- Cook the Chicken: If your chicken breasts aren’t pre-cooked, cook them by either boiling or roasting. Once done, shred them into bite-sized pieces.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until they become translucent (about 5 minutes). Add minced garlic and mushrooms (if using), and sauté until fragrant and mushrooms are tender. Stir in the spinach and cook until it wilts. Remove from heat.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually add the milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly until smooth. Add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, dijon mustard, and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens (about 5 minutes).
- Assemble the Casserole: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, and the creamy sauce. Mix everything well so the chicken and spinach are fully coated with the sauce.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese. This will give your casserole a delicious, crispy topping.
- Layer the Casserole: Spread the chicken and spinach mixture evenly in a casserole dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top to ensure a crispy, golden crust when baked.
- Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.
How to Cook Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking the perfect creamy chicken and spinach casserole doesn't need to be difficult. Follow this easy, step-by-step guide to ensure your casserole turns out creamy, flavorful, and with the right texture. From prepping ingredients to assembling and baking, this section will provide clarity for each cooking stage, ensuring no detail is missed.
- Prepare the Ingredients: First, gather all the necessary ingredients and pre-cook what’s required. This includes cooking and shredding the chicken, wilting the spinach, and prepping the creamy sauce. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.
- Focus on the Sauce: A good sauce can make or break this dish. Take your time when whisking the roux (butter and flour) to avoid lumps, and add the liquids slowly. The key is a smooth, thick sauce that complements the chicken and spinach.
- Layer It Properly: Ensuring even distribution of the chicken and spinach mixture in the casserole dish allows for consistent flavor and texture in every bite.
- Get That Perfect Golden Crust: The breadcrumb topping is crucial for a satisfying crunch. Keep an eye on the casserole during baking to make sure the top becomes golden brown, but not burnt.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Undercooking or Overcooking the Chicken: Undercooked chicken will ruin the dish, while overcooked chicken can be dry. Ensure it's cooked just right.
- Watery Sauce: Avoid adding too much liquid to the sauce. A watery sauce can make the casserole soggy.
- Skipping the Resting Time: Letting the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving ensures the flavors meld together and the casserole isn’t too runny.
Serving and Presentation Tips
A great casserole deserves a beautiful presentation. Here are some ways to make your creamy chicken and spinach casserole the star of the dinner table:
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole
Serve this casserole with some crusty bread, a light salad, or roasted vegetables on the side for a complete meal. For a more indulgent experience, pair it with mashed potatoes or buttery noodles.
Presentation Ideas for Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole
- Garnish: Sprinkle some fresh parsley or chives on top after baking for a pop of color and freshness.
- Individual Servings: Instead of making one large casserole, bake the mixture in small ramekins for individual servings, perfect for dinner parties or portion control.
Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe Tips
- Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole the day before and refrigerate. Simply bake it when you’re ready to serve.
- Freezing: This casserole freezes well! Store leftovers or double the recipe to freeze half for later. Just be sure to let it thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Cheese Upgrade: For extra flavor, mix in different cheeses such as cheddar or Gruyère into the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. It’s a great option for busy schedules.
Can I freeze Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Be sure to let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the freezer.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions until warmed through.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or a crisp green salad.
Conclusion
This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is the perfect combination of comfort food and healthy ingredients, making it a must-try recipe for your next meal. Its creamy, cheesy goodness combined with the wholesomeness of chicken and spinach makes it a hit for the whole family. With easy substitutions, variations, and simple steps, you’ll find yourself making this dish over and over again. Ready to cook? Grab your ingredients and get started today!
PrintCreamy Chicken And Spinach Casserole Recipe
This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole recipe is a savory, rich dish that combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a creamy cheese sauce. Ideal for a quick, satisfying meal, this casserole is a great way to enjoy hearty flavors with nutritious ingredients. Simple to prepare and perfect for family dinners, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onions and garlic until soft.
- Add fresh spinach to the skillet, cooking until wilted.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, sautéed spinach, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, and half of the mozzarella. Season with salt and pepper.
- Pour mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute frozen spinach if fresh isn't available.
- For added flavor, use a mixture of cheeses like cheddar or Gruyère.
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ⅙ of casserole
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 560mg
Leave a Reply