Description

This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for family dinners. Combining tender cooked chicken, nutrient-rich spinach, and a creamy blend of cheeses and seasonings, it bakes to golden perfection with a crunchy breadcrumb topping. Optional pasta or rice can be added for an even heartier meal, making this casserole versatile and easy to prepare ahead.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
10 oz frozen spinach (thawed and drained)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion (diced)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Cheeses and Toppings

1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional topping)
1 tablespoon melted butter

Optional Ingredients

1 cup cooked pasta or cooked rice (optional for a heartier dish)

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Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F to ensure it’s ready when your casserole mixture is combined.
Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened, then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Mix Casserole Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, thawed and drained spinach, sautéed onion and garlic, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir in the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. If you prefer a heartier dish, fold in the cooked pasta or rice at this stage.
Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Transfer the casserole mixture into the dish and spread it evenly.
Add Topping: If using breadcrumbs, mix them with melted butter until combined, then sprinkle evenly over the top of the casserole to add a crunchy, golden crust.
Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the topping is golden brown.
Cool and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set and make serving easier.

Notes

You can substitute fresh spinach (sautéed and drained) for the frozen spinach if preferred.
To lighten the dish, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier alternative.
This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking to save time on busy days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American