Explore the simple indulgence of our Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole. This delightful dish combines the rich flavors of rotisserie chicken, creamy chive and onion cream cheese, and fresh spinach, all topped with bubbly mozzarella cheese. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this casserole is a comforting meal that never fails to please.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal prep, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of creamy cheeses, tender chicken, and aromatic spices creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
- Versatile Dish: Great for any occasion—serve it on a cozy night in or at your next family gathering.
- Freezable Leftovers: Make it ahead of time and freeze leftovers for an easy meal when you’re short on time.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and nutrients from spinach, this casserole is as healthy as it is tasty.
Tools and Preparation
Gathering the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are the essential items you’ll need to whip up this creamy delight.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Cooking Spray
- Large Skillet
- Baking Dish (9×13 inches)
- Mixing Spoon
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large Skillet: Ideal for sautéing onions and garlic evenly without overcrowding.
- Baking Dish: A 9×13 dish provides ample space for layering ingredients, ensuring even baking.
Ingredients
For our delectable Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole, you will need:
Main Ingredients
- Cooking Spray
- 3 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
- 1 ½ cups Yellow Onion (finely chopped)
- 6 cloves Garlic (thinly sliced)
- 2 teaspoons Dried Italian Seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper
- 1 ¾ teaspoons Kosher Salt (divided)
- 3 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour
- 2 ½ cups Whole Milk
- 4 ounces Chive and Onion Cream Cheese
- 4 cups Rotisserie Chicken (shredded)
- 3 cups Long-Grain White Rice (cooked)
- 2 packages (10 ounces each Frozen Chopped Spinach, thawed and excess water squeezed out)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice
- 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest
- 8 ounces Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese (shredded)
- ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese (grated)
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole
Follow these simple steps to create your own Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole cooks evenly throughout.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
In a large skillet over medium heat:
Melt the unsalted butter.
Add finely chopped yellow onion and sauté until translucent.
Stir in thinly sliced garlic, dried Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, and ¾ teaspoon kosher salt. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Create the Sauce
To make the creamy sauce:
Sprinkle flour over the onion mixture. Stir well to combine.
Gradually whisk in whole milk until smooth.
Add chive and onion cream cheese; stir until melted into a creamy sauce.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl:
Combine shredded rotisserie chicken, cooked rice, thawed chopped spinach, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, remaining salt, and the creamy sauce. Mix well until everything is coated.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Spray your baking dish with cooking spray. Pour the chicken mixture into the dish evenly.
Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
Step 6: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for about 35 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
This recipe makes enough for eight servings—perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for busy weeks ahead! Enjoy your luscious Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole
Serving Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is all about enhancing its rich flavors and comforting textures. Here are some creative ways to present this delightful dish.
Family Style
- Serve directly from the baking dish for a casual gathering, allowing guests to help themselves.
Individual Portions
- Use ramekins or small baking dishes for single servings, making it easy for guests to enjoy their own personalized meal.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Top each serving with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and added flavor.
Accompanied by a Side Salad
- Pair your casserole with a light green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.
With Crusty Bread
- Offer slices of warm, crusty bread on the side for dipping into the creamy sauce.
How to Perfect Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole
To make your Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole even better, follow these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh spinach and high-quality rotisserie chicken for the best flavor.
- Customize Seasoning: Adjust Italian seasoning according to your taste preferences; feel free to add more herbs if desired.
- Achieve Creaminess: Ensure that your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing, which helps achieve a smoother texture.
- Bake Until Golden: Keep an eye on the casserole while it bakes; you want it bubbly and golden brown on top for the best presentation.
- Add a Crunch: Consider topping with breadcrumbs before baking for added texture.
- Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for about 10 minutes after baking. This helps it set up nicely for serving.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole
Pairing sides with your Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole enhances the meal experience. Here are some delicious options:
- Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted garlic bread complements the creamy flavors of the casserole while adding crunch.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients, balancing out the richness of the main dish.
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad brings a tangy contrast that pairs well with creamy casseroles.
- Roasted Asparagus: Drizzle asparagus with olive oil and roast until tender; its earthy flavor works beautifully alongside chicken.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf can add a nutty flavor that contrasts nicely with the rich casserole.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes can be an indulgent addition, offering comfort in every bite.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding mistakes is crucial to achieving the perfect Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole. Here are common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using uncooked chicken: Always start with cooked rotisserie chicken. This ensures your casserole has the right texture and flavor.
- Skipping the seasoning: Don’t overlook seasoning your dish. Use dried Italian seasoning and salt to elevate the taste of your casserole.
- Not squeezing spinach: Failing to remove excess water from spinach can lead to a watery casserole. Always squeeze out moisture for the best results.
- Overcooking cheese: Be careful not to overbake or burn the cheese topping. Aim for a bubbly, golden finish while keeping it creamy.
- Ignoring leftovers: Leftovers can be just as delicious! Make sure you store them properly to enjoy this dish later.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best flavor.
Reheating Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 25-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Warm slowly on low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole.
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach! Just sauté it briefly until wilted before adding it to the casserole.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
You can use sour cream or Greek yogurt as alternatives if you’re looking for a different flavor or consistency.
How do I make my casserole more nutritious?
Consider adding more vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, along with the spinach for added nutrition.
Is Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well and makes for quick meals throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
The Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or spices according to your taste. It’s a delightful meal that promises satisfaction at any dinner table, so give it a try!
Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole
Experience the ultimate comfort food with our Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole. This heartwarming dish brings together the savory goodness of rotisserie chicken, creamy chive and onion cream cheese, and tender spinach, all baked to perfection under a golden layer of mozzarella cheese. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, ensuring satisfaction with every bite. Enjoy it fresh or freeze leftovers for quick meals later. With its rich flavors and nourishing ingredients, this casserole promises to be a family favorite!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- Rotisserie chicken
- Chive and onion cream cheese
- Fresh spinach (or frozen)
- Mozzarella cheese
- Long-grain white rice
- Yellow onion
- Garlic
- Unsalted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion until translucent, then add garlic and seasonings.
- Sprinkle flour into the mixture and gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Stir in cream cheese until melted.
- In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cooked rice, spinach, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and the creamy sauce.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish and top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 35 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 398
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 751mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
