Hey there, friend! If you’re looking for a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for those busy weeknights, let me introduce you to my all-time favorite: chicken and spinach casserole with cream cheese! Seriously, this dish is a lifesaver. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, yet it comes together in just about 45 minutes. I love how it transforms simple ingredients into a hearty meal that feels like a big hug on a plate.
The best part? You can throw it together in no time, which means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying dinner with your loved ones. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies! Every bite is rich and satisfying, making it a hit for both kids and adults alike. Trust me, once you’ve had a taste, you’ll find yourself making it again and again!
Ingredients List
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded – I usually use leftover rotisserie chicken, but any cooked chicken works great!
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped – Fresh is best for that vibrant color and flavor, but feel free to use frozen if that’s what you have on hand.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened – This is the magic ingredient that makes everything creamy and dreamy. Be sure to let it soften at room temperature for easy mixing!
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – I love a sharp cheddar for that extra kick, but you can use mild if you prefer something subtler.
- 1/2 cup sour cream – It adds a lovely tang and creaminess—don’t skip it!
- 1/2 cup chicken broth – Use low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake. It helps bind everything together.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder – Garlic makes everything better, am I right?
- 1/2 tsp onion powder – Adds depth of flavor without the fuss of chopping onions.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Always season to your liking! A little sprinkle of each goes a long way.
How to Prepare *Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese*
Alright, let’s dive into the fun part—making this delicious chicken and spinach casserole with cream cheese! I promise you it’s super straightforward, and I’ll guide you through each step. Just follow along, and you’ll have a bubbling, cheesy dish ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven: First things first, go ahead and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’ll be nice and hot when we’re ready to bake our casserole!
- Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine your shredded chicken, chopped spinach, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Trust me, it’ll look like a beautiful mess! Mix everything together until it’s well combined. Don’t be shy—get in there with a spatula or your hands!
- Transfer to a baking dish: Once everything is mixed perfectly, transfer your creamy mixture into a greased baking dish. I usually use a 9×13-inch dish, but any size will do as long as it can hold all that goodness.
- Bake it up: Pop that dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s heated through and bubbly on the edges—yum!
- Cool and serve: Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. This helps it set up a bit, and trust me, you don’t want to burn your mouth on that cheesy goodness! After it’s cooled, scoop it into bowls and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This chicken and spinach casserole with cream cheese comes together in just 15 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for those busy evenings!
- Creamy and Comforting: With the luscious cream cheese and cheddar, every bite is a warm hug that satisfies your cravings.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh spinach and lean chicken, this dish is a great way to sneak in some veggies while still being delicious.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy goodness, making it a fantastic choice for family dinners!
- Versatile: You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or spices, so it never gets boring.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare it in advance and refrigerate before baking, which is a lifesaver for meal planning!
Tips for Success
Now that you’re all set to whip up this delicious chicken and spinach casserole with cream cheese, let me share some pro tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time!
- Use room temperature cream cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is softened before mixing. If it’s cold, it won’t blend smoothly, and you’ll end up with lumps. A quick tip? Just set it out on the counter for about 30 minutes before you start!
- Don’t overmix: While you want everything to be combined, be careful not to overmix once you add the cream cheese. Overmixing can lead to a dense casserole instead of the light, fluffy texture we’re aiming for.
- Check for doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes. It’s ready when it’s bubbly and slightly golden on top. If it’s not quite there after 30 minutes, give it a few more minutes—just don’t let it dry out!
- Let it rest: After you take it out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set up nicely, and it’ll be easier to scoop out those perfect portions!
- Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to add in your favorite herbs or spices! A dash of paprika or Italian seasoning can elevate the flavor profile even more. Don’t be afraid to get creative!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be a casserole pro in no time. Enjoy the cooking process and the deliciousness that follows!
Variations of *Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese*
If you’re like me, you love a recipe that you can make your own! This chicken and spinach casserole with cream cheese is so versatile, and there are endless ways to switch it up. Here are some fun variations to consider:
- Veggie Boost: Add in some chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or even roasted zucchini for extra flavor and nutrients. They’ll blend beautifully with the creamy filling!
- Herb Infusion: Sprinkle in some fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill for a burst of freshness. These herbs pair perfectly with chicken and add a lovely aroma!
- Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. Just a little can elevate the whole dish and give it a fun twist!
- Different Cheeses: Switch up the cheese! Try using mozzarella for a gooey texture or pepper jack for a spicy, creamy bite. Feta or goat cheese can add a nice tang if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Grainy Goodness: For an added layer of texture, mix in some cooked quinoa or rice. It not only makes the casserole heartier but also stretches it a bit further if you’re feeding a crowd!
- Sauce It Up: Drizzle a bit of your favorite hot sauce or a creamy ranch dressing on top before serving for an extra flavor punch that everyone will love.
With these variations, you can keep this casserole exciting and tailored to your family’s tastes. Don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun with it—each version is sure to be a hit at the dinner table!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Okay, let’s talk about how to keep those delicious leftovers fresh and how to enjoy them again! This chicken and spinach casserole with cream cheese is just as tasty the next day, so you definitely don’t want to waste any of it.
First things first, once the casserole has cooled down to room temperature, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. This will help keep it moist and flavorful. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure it’s sealed tight—no one wants dry casserole!
If you’re looking to keep it longer, you can also freeze the casserole. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, to prevent freezer burn. It should be good for about 2-3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to dive back in, just let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Now, for reheating! If you’re warming up a single serving, you can pop it in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes. Just keep an eye on it to make sure it heats evenly. If you prefer using the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C), place the casserole in a baking dish, and cover it with foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until it’s heated through and bubbly again. This method really helps retain that creamy texture!
And there you have it! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your chicken and spinach casserole with cream cheese long after it’s first out of the oven. Happy eating!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick rundown of the typical nutritional values for this delicious chicken and spinach casserole with cream cheese. Keep in mind that these are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, but they give you a good idea of what to expect!
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 90mg
This casserole is not only comforting and delicious but also a great source of protein with a healthy dose of veggies. It’s perfect for a balanced meal that won’t weigh you down. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite guilt-free!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen spinach works just fine. Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out any excess moisture before mixing it in. This will keep your casserole from getting too watery!
What kind of chicken should I use?
I recommend using cooked, shredded chicken for this casserole. Leftover rotisserie chicken is a fantastic choice, but you can also bake or poach your chicken breast if you prefer. Just make sure it’s nice and tender!
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or mushrooms. Just chop them up and toss them in with the other ingredients. It’s a great way to sneak in even more nutrients!
How do I know when the casserole is done?
Your casserole is ready when it’s bubbly around the edges and slightly golden on top. If you stick a knife in the center, it should come out hot. If it needs more time, just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t overcook!
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! This casserole is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just remember that it might need a few extra minutes in the oven if it’s coming straight out of the fridge!
Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese Bliss
- Temps Total: 45 minutes
- Rendement: 6 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Faible En Calories
Description
A creamy chicken and spinach casserole that’s easy to prepare.
Ingrédients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, spinach, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers.
- Temps De Préparation: 15 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 30 minutes
- Catégorie: Dinner
- Méthode: Baking
- Cuisine: American
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sucre: 2g
- De Sodium: 600mg
- La graisse: 20g
- Graisses Saturées: 10g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 8g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 8g
- La fibre: 2g
- La protéine: 30g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 90mg
Mots-clés: chicken and spinach casserole, cream cheese casserole, easy casserole recipes
