Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

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I’m always looking for ways to combine comfort food with something a little green and nutritious—and that’s exactly how this Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese came to life. The creamy texture, the gooey cheese pull, and the golden-browned chicken pieces all wrapped in tender spinach… it’s everything I want in a cozy, weeknight dinner. I love that it’s hearty without feeling heavy, and it doesn’t hurt that the leftovers are even better the next day.

This is one of those dishes that feels indulgent, but thanks to the spinach and the lean chicken, I never feel like I’m overdoing it. The cream cheese creates a luscious base that melts right into the spinach, tying everything together into a rich, savory bake. Whether I’m making it for my family or meal prepping for the week, this casserole always hits the spot.

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Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

• It’s a true comfort dish—rich, creamy, and satisfying.
• Easy to prepare with minimal cleanup since everything bakes in one dish.
• A great way to use up leftover chicken or a rotisserie bird.
• Kid-approved (yes, even with the spinach!).
• Perfect for meal prep—it reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day.

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What Type of Chicken Should I Use for Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese?

You can go with what you have on hand—this recipe is super flexible. I usually use boneless, skinless chicken breasts because they’re lean and quick to cook, but thighs work wonderfully too, especially if you want something a bit juicier. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut. Just shred or cube it and mix it right into the creamy spinach base—no pre-cooking needed.

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Options for Substitutions

This casserole welcomes changes without losing its soul. If you’re out of spinach, kale or Swiss chard can step in—just sauté them briefly to soften. Don’t do dairy? Use a plant-based cream cheese and shredded dairy-free mozzarella. Want more flavor? Try adding sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes. And if you’re watching carbs, skip pasta sides altogether and enjoy it straight from the dish—it’s satisfying enough on its own.

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Ingredients for this Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

Chicken breasts or thighs
The star of the dish—tender, juicy pieces of chicken provide the protein and soak up the creamy flavors.

Fresh spinach
I love using fresh spinach because it wilts beautifully into the cream cheese, adding a nice contrast in texture and a pop of green.

Cream cheese
This is the creamy heart of the casserole. It melts into the spinach, creating a luscious, velvety base that binds everything together.

Mozzarella cheese
For that gooey, melty top layer. It browns beautifully in the oven and adds that classic casserole comfort.

Garlic
A small but mighty addition that infuses the dish with warmth and depth.

Onion
Sautéed until soft, onion adds a savory backbone and pairs perfectly with the cream cheese.

Olive oil or butter
Used for sautéing and adding richness—either one works great, depending on your taste preference.

Salt and pepper
Essential for seasoning each layer and making sure all the flavors shine.

Italian seasoning (optional)
A nice blend that brings some herby brightness, especially if you like a Mediterranean twist.

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Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

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Step 2

Cut the chicken into bite-sized chunks and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning if using. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook the chicken until it’s just golden on the outside—about 5-6 minutes. It doesn’t need to be fully cooked yet.

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Step 3

Remove the chicken and set it aside. In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

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Step 4

Toss in the fresh spinach and sauté until it wilts down completely, about 2-3 minutes. Then lower the heat and stir in the cream cheese. Keep mixing until it melts and combines with the spinach into a thick, creamy mixture.

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Step 5

Add the partially cooked chicken back into the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy spinach mixture. Then transfer everything into the prepared baking dish.

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Step 6

Top with shredded mozzarella and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and lightly browned on top.

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Step 7

Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set and makes it easier to scoop.

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How Long to Cook the Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

Once everything is assembled and placed in the oven, bake it at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes. You’re looking for a bubbling top and lightly golden cheese. If you want an extra browned finish, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 2–3 minutes—just keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn.

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Tips for Perfect Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

• Don’t overcook the chicken in the skillet—just sear it. It finishes cooking in the oven and stays juicy this way.
• Use room temperature cream cheese so it melts more easily into the spinach mixture.
• Drain the spinach well if using frozen to avoid a watery casserole.
• Season every layer—chicken, spinach, and sauce all benefit from a little salt and pepper as you go.
• Shred your own cheese if you can; it melts smoother and gives a better top layer than pre-shredded varieties.
• Let it rest for a few minutes before digging in. It makes slicing and serving cleaner.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using cold cream cheese: It won’t melt properly and can leave clumps. Let it sit at room temperature before mixing.
• Skipping the pre-cook on chicken: Tossing raw chicken into the casserole won’t give the same flavor or texture. A quick sear makes a big difference.
• Adding too much liquid spinach: Whether you’re using fresh or frozen, spinach releases water. Sauté or squeeze it dry to avoid a soupy bake.
• Overcrowding the dish: Everything should be well-mixed but not jam-packed. A crowded casserole won’t bake evenly.
• Forgetting to season: Cream cheese and spinach are both mild—underseasoning leads to a bland dish.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on that top layer. Overbaking dries out the chicken and turns the cheese rubbery.

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What to Serve With Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese?

Roasted Garlic Bread

Crunchy and garlicky, perfect for scooping up that creamy filling.

Simple Side Salad

Something crisp with a vinaigrette helps balance the richness.

Steamed Broccoli

Light and fresh, it pairs well and adds extra greens.

Cauliflower Rice

A low-carb option that still soaks up the sauce beautifully.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Comfort food on comfort food—always a cozy combination.

Buttered Egg Noodles

Classic and simple, noodles are great for catching every bit of that creamy sauce.

Balsamic Glazed Carrots

A sweet and tangy contrast that brightens up the plate.

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Storage Instructions

Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or oven—just cover it so it stays moist. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions tightly wrapped in foil or in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F until heated through.

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Estimated Nutrition

Please note these are general estimates and can vary based on exact ingredients and quantities used:

• Calories: ~390 per serving
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 26g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 2g
• Sodium: ~480mg

This casserole is high in protein, low in carbs, and loaded with healthy greens, making it a satisfying and balanced option for lunch or dinner.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and squeeze out as much water as possible to avoid a watery casserole.

What kind of cream cheese works best?

Full-fat cream cheese gives the richest flavor and texture, but you can use reduced-fat if preferred.

Can I prep this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture.

Can I add pasta or rice into the casserole?

Yes, cooked pasta or rice can be stirred into the creamy mixture before baking for a heartier dish.

Is it gluten-free?

As long as you check your cream cheese and seasonings for hidden gluten, yes—it’s naturally gluten-free.

Can I use dairy-free alternatives?

Definitely! Use dairy-free cream cheese and shredded cheese alternatives to suit your dietary needs.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the microwave or cover and bake at 350°F until warmed through. Add a splash of milk or broth if it looks dry.

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Conclusion

Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is one of those comforting, crowd-pleasing meals that checks all the boxes—easy, delicious, and versatile. Whether you’re feeding your family, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving something warm and creamy, this casserole delivers. With minimal prep and big flavor, it’s no surprise it’s a go-to in my kitchen. I hope it becomes one in yours too.

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