Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole: 5 Steps to Joy!

September 1, 2025

By:

Julia marin

There’s just something so comforting about a creamy chicken and spinach casserole, isn’t there? It’s like a warm hug on a chilly evening, a dish that brings everyone to the table with smiles and hearty appetites. I remember the first time I made this for my family; the aroma wafted through the house, and my kids couldn’t wait to dig in. The blend of tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and a rich, creamy sauce creates a symphony of flavors and textures that just works so beautifully. It’s not just a meal; it’s a moment of togetherness. Trust me, once you serve this up, it’ll quickly become a family favorite. So, let’s get cooking and create some delicious memories together with this easy recipe!

creamy chicken and spinach casserole - detail 1

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheese (I love using a mix of cheddar and mozzarella!)
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
3 cups cooked pasta (like penne or rotini for that perfect bite!)

How to Prepare Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

Preparing this creamy chicken and spinach casserole is a breeze, and I promise it’ll fill your kitchen with the most delightful aroma! Let’s dive into the simple steps to create this comforting dish that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner.

Step-by-Step Instructions

First things first, go ahead and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is important, so your casserole bakes evenly and gets that lovely golden top!
Next, grab a large mixing bowl and combine your shredded chicken, chopped spinach, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. Trust me, it’s okay if it looks a bit thick – that’s how it should be!
Now, it’s time to add the cooked pasta into the mixture. Gently fold it in, ensuring every piece of pasta is coated in that creamy goodness. This is where the magic happens!
Once everything is combined, transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. I like to use a 9×13 inch dish, but any similar size will work. Spread it out evenly, and don’t be shy about packing it in!
Finally, sprinkle that shredded cheese generously over the top. Don’t skimp! It’s what makes it all bubbly and delicious.
Pop it in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s bubbly and the cheese is a beautiful golden color. Just be careful when you take it out – it’ll be hot!
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, so it sets up nicely. This dish is best enjoyed warm, and I can’t wait for you to dig in!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to comfort food, knowing the nutritional information can help you enjoy it even more! Here’s an estimate of what you’ll find in each serving of this creamy chicken and spinach casserole:

Calories: 350
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 720mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 25g

Remember, these values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, but this gives you a good idea of what to expect. Enjoy this hearty dish knowing it’s not just delicious, but also packed with protein from the chicken and cheese! Perfect for fueling your weeknight adventures!

Tips for Success

Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your creamy chicken and spinach casserole turns out perfectly every time!

Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a super quick and easy prep, grab a rotisserie chicken from the store instead of cooking your own. It saves time and adds wonderful flavor!
Adjust the Veggies: Feel free to get creative! You can easily add other veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or even some broccoli. Just chop them up and toss them in with the spinach.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until everything is combined. Overmixing can make the casserole a bit tough. You want that creamy, tender texture!
Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes. If the cheese is golden and bubbling, it’s ready! If it’s getting too dark but isn’t bubbly yet, cover it loosely with foil to prevent over-browning.
Let It Rest: After taking it out of the oven, let your casserole sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps it set up nicely and makes for easier serving.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to make a creamy chicken and spinach casserole that everyone will love. Happy cooking!

Variations of Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

One of the best things about this creamy chicken and spinach casserole is its versatility! You can easily switch up ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas to inspire your creativity:

Protein Swap: Not a fan of chicken? No problem! You can use shredded turkey, cooked sausage, or even diced ham for a different twist. Each protein brings its own unique flavor!
Vegetable Medley: While spinach is a classic, don’t hesitate to mix in other veggies. Try adding chopped broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, or even some roasted red peppers for a pop of color and flavor.
Pasta Variety: Switch up the pasta type too! Fusilli, bowtie, or even whole wheat pasta can change the texture and make it a bit healthier.
Cheese Choices: While I love a good blend of cheddar and mozzarella, you could also try gouda for a smoky flavor or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just think about what you enjoy!
Creamy Base Alternatives: If you want to experiment, consider using a different creamy base like cream cheese or a homemade white sauce. This can add a whole new level of richness!
Herb Infusion: Don’t forget about herbs! Adding some fresh or dried herbs like thyme, basil, or parsley can elevate the flavors and make it feel gourmet.

Feel free to mix and match these ideas! The beauty of this casserole is that it’s forgiving and oh-so-easy to customize. Have fun with it, and make it your own!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this comforting dish in the oven and your family gathered around the table in no time!
Hearty Comfort Food: This creamy chicken and spinach casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy nights or when you need a little extra warmth in your life.
Family-Friendly: Packed with flavors that everyone will love, this dish is sure to please picky eaters and satisfy hearty appetites alike.
Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe with different proteins, vegetables, or cheeses, making it a go-to dish for any occasion!
Leftover Magic: If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare around my house!), they make for a delicious lunch the next day, keeping the comfort going!
One-Dish Wonder: With everything baked together in one dish, cleanup is a breeze—more time to enjoy your meal and less time scrubbing pots and pans!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing leftovers from your creamy chicken and spinach casserole is super easy, and I have a few tips to keep it fresh and tasty! First, make sure to let the casserole cool completely before storing it. This helps prevent excess moisture from building up, which can make the dish soggy.

Once cooled, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to label the container if you have several meals in there; trust me, it helps to avoid that “What’s that mystery dish?” moment!

When you’re ready to enjoy those delicious leftovers, reheating is a breeze! The best method is to pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s heated through and the cheese is bubbly again. If you’re in a hurry, you can also microwave individual portions—just cover them with a microwave-safe lid or plate to keep the moisture in, and heat for about 1-2 minutes, checking in between to ensure it’s warmed evenly.

With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can savor every last bite of your creamy chicken and spinach casserole, keeping those cozy flavors alive for days to come!

FAQ Section

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen spinach works great in this creamy chicken and spinach casserole. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture before adding it to the mix. This will keep your casserole from getting watery!

What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you’re not a fan of cream of mushroom soup, no worries! You can use cream of chicken soup or even a homemade white sauce. It’ll still give you that creamy texture you crave.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the casserole up to the baking point, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through.

Is this creamy chicken and spinach casserole gluten-free?
Yes! As long as you use gluten-free pasta and double-check the soup label, this casserole can easily be made gluten-free. It’s comforting and delicious without the gluten!

Can I freeze leftovers?
Definitely! This casserole freezes beautifully. Just make sure to let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results.

For more information on the benefits of spinach, check out this Healthline article.

To learn more about the nutritional value of chicken, visit this NCBI resource.

You might also like it

Air Fryer Garlic Herb Potato Bites: 5 Easy Steps to Deliciousness

Air Fryer Edamame with Sea Salt Recipe: 5 Simple Steps!

Loaded Cauliflower Casserole: 5 Steps to Comforting Success

About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.