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Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese Recipe

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This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is a creamy, cheesy baked dish featuring tender chicken breasts layered with a savory spinach and cream cheese mixture. Perfectly seasoned with Italian herbs and garlic, this comforting casserole is easy to prepare and ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Spinach Mixture

  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, optional
  • Remaining 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese for topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat and prepare baking dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Set aside to use later.
  2. Prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken breasts in half horizontally to make four cutlets. Pound the thicker ends with a rolling pin until all pieces are evenly thick for uniform cooking.
  3. Marinate the chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken pieces, toss to coat well, then cover and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
  4. Cook spinach: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the spinach and cook, stirring frequently, until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
  5. Make spinach and cream cheese mixture: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Stir in the wilted spinach, 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese if using, mixing until fully combined and creamy.
  6. Sear chicken (optional): Remove the marinated chicken pieces from the bowl, letting any excess marinade drip off. For more flavor and texture, sear them in the skillet 1-2 minutes per side, until lightly browned but not fully cooked. Then place the chicken in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
  7. Assemble the casserole: Spread the spinach and cream cheese mixture evenly over the chicken in the baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
  8. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-30 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the cheese on top is melted and lightly browned.
  9. Rest and serve: Let the casserole stand for 5 minutes after baking to allow flavors to set. Serve warm and enjoy this creamy, flavorful dish.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, searing the chicken before baking is recommended but optional.
  • Substitute fresh spinach with frozen spinach—thawed and well-drained—if fresh is unavailable.
  • Use full-fat cream cheese for best creaminess; low-fat versions may result in a less rich texture.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated thoroughly before serving.
  • This casserole pairs well with a side of rice, roasted vegetables, or a light salad.

Keywords: chicken casserole, spinach casserole, creamy chicken bake, cream cheese chicken, Italian seasoning chicken, easy dinner recipe

Find it online: https://cookwithruby.com/chicken-and-spinach-casserole-with-cream-cheese-recipe/