Oh my goodness, if you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in a warm hug, this chicken and spinach casserole with cream cheese is it! I remember the first time I made this—it was a chilly evening, and my family was all gathered around the table. As soon as that creamy goodness came out of the oven, the aroma filled the room, and everyone rushed to get a scoop. Trust me, the combination of tender chicken, fresh spinach, and that luscious cream cheese creates a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s not just food; it’s a memory in the making! You need to try this—your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredients for Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to this delightful casserole! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (leftover rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (feel free to use frozen if that’s what you have, just thaw and drain it well)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened (you can let it sit out for a bit or microwave it for 10 seconds)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar gives it a nice kick!)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (low-sodium is best to control saltiness)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (because garlic makes everything better)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (adds a lovely depth of flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste (always taste as you go!)
With these simple ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a creamy, comforting dish that everyone will love!
How to Prepare Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese
Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delicious casserole! First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because we want everything to bake evenly and get that lovely golden top.
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped spinach, softened cream cheese, and chicken broth. I like to use a fork or spatula to really mix everything together until it’s creamy and well-blended. Then, sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, and add a pinch of salt and pepper. Don’t forget to taste as you mix—you want it just right!
Once everything is combined, transfer the mixture into a baking dish. Make sure it’s evenly spread out for a nice bake. Now for my favorite part: sprinkle that shredded cheddar cheese generously on top! It’s what makes it so irresistibly gooey.
Pop it in the oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. The smell will be simply heavenly! Just let it cool for a few minutes before serving, and then dig in!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s chat about the nutritional values of this lovely chicken and spinach casserole with cream cheese. Keep in mind that these are estimates, but they give you a good idea of what to expect per serving (about 1 cup). You’re looking at approximately 320 calories, with 18 grams of fat and 30 grams of protein, which is pretty impressive! It’s got about 6 grams of carbohydrates and 2 grams of sugar, making it a satisfying option without too many carbs. Plus, it’s low in fat, so you can enjoy every creamy bite without the guilt!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s incredibly easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
- The creamy texture and rich flavors are simply irresistible.
- Packed with protein and nutrients, it’s a wholesome meal choice.
- Versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies or spices.
- Leftovers are just as delicious, making it great for meal prep.
- A crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will enjoy!
Honestly, this casserole is a go-to in my kitchen for all the right reasons!
Tips for Success
To really nail this chicken and spinach casserole with cream cheese, here are my top tips! First, if you want to lighten it up a bit, you can swap half of the cream cheese for Greek yogurt—trust me, it still tastes fantastic! Also, be sure to let your cream cheese soften well; it makes mixing a breeze and ensures a smooth texture.
When baking, keep an eye on the cheese; if it’s browning too quickly, just cover it with foil for the last few minutes. And for serving, I love to add a sprinkle of fresh herbs—like parsley or basil—on top for a burst of color and flavor. Enjoy your casserole with a side salad for a delightful meal!
Variations for Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese
One of the best things about this chicken and spinach casserole with cream cheese is how flexible it is! You can easily switch things up to suit your taste or what you have on hand. For a fun twist, try adding different vegetables like chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or even artichoke hearts for extra flavor and texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning to spice things up!
And let’s not forget about cheese! Swap the cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor profile, or mix in some crumbled feta for a Mediterranean vibe. The possibilities are endless, so let your creativity shine in the kitchen!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving this chicken and spinach casserole with cream cheese, I love to keep it simple yet satisfying! It pairs beautifully with a fluffy side of rice—white or brown, it’s your call! If you’re in the mood for something a little heartier, crusty bread is perfect for scooping up that creamy goodness. And don’t forget a fresh salad on the side; a light green salad with a zesty vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole perfectly. Trust me, these sides will elevate your meal and make it a delightful dining experience!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Leftovers of this delicious chicken and spinach casserole with cream cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing it up—this helps keep it fresh! When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat the casserole for about 15-20 minutes or until it’s heated through and the cheese is melty again. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, just be sure to cover it to prevent splatters. Enjoy every creamy bite again!
FAQ About Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese
Got questions? I’ve got answers! One of the most common inquiries is about storage time—this casserole can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days, so it’s perfect for meal prep. If you want to freeze it, just cover it tightly and it’ll last for about 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave.
As for ingredient substitutions, feel free to swap the chicken for turkey or use a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian option. You can also mix up the cheeses—cream cheese can be replaced with ricotta for a different texture, and don’t shy away from adding your favorite spices for a personal touch. Enjoy experimenting!
For more information on the health benefits of spinach, check out this Healthline article.
If you’re interested in learning more about the nutritional value of chicken, visit this Nutrition Value page.
Print
Master Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese Today!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A delicious and creamy chicken and spinach casserole made with cream cheese.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken, spinach, cream cheese, and chicken broth.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly.
Notes
- Serve with rice or bread for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: chicken and spinach casserole, cream cheese casserole, chicken casserole
