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So Yum Recipes

Savory Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

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To make the savory chicken and spinach casserole, gather these key ingredients: - 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded - 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped - 1 cup cream cheese, softened - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 cup sour cream - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping) - 2 tablespoons olive oil You can switch out some ingredients if needed. Here are some options: - Use rotisserie chicken for ease and flavor. - Swap cream cheese for Greek yogurt for a lighter dish. - Try ricotta cheese instead of mozzarella for a different taste. - Use vegetable oil if you run out of olive oil. - For a gluten-free option, skip the breadcrumbs or use gluten-free ones. Choosing fresh ingredients makes a big difference. Here are some tips: - Look for bright green spinach with no yellow spots. - Pick chicken that has no odor and is firm to the touch. - Choose cream cheese that feels soft and smooth. - For cheese, go for brands that are well-known for quality. - Check expiration dates on sour cream and cheeses to ensure freshness. These tips help you make a tasty casserole that everyone will love! {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by gathering all your ingredients. This makes the process smoother. You need cooked chicken, fresh spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella, and sour cream. Don't forget your spices! Measure everything out before you start. This way, you won't miss anything. Chop your spinach finely. This helps it mix well in the dish. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach. Cook it for about three minutes. You want it wilted but bright green. Remove it from the heat. This step keeps the spinach fresh in flavor. In a big bowl, mix the shredded chicken with the spinach. Add cream cheese, mozzarella, sour cream, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until everything blends well. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread the chicken and spinach mix evenly in the dish. If you want a crispy top, add breadcrumbs. Finally, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Look for bubbly and golden cheese. Let it sit for five minutes before serving. Enjoy this warm, cheesy delight! To boost the creaminess of your casserole, use more cream cheese. You can add an extra ½ cup for a richer taste. Mixing in a bit of heavy cream also helps. This will give you a velvety texture. You can also try adding sour cream or Greek yogurt. Both add creaminess and a nice tang. To make this dish healthier, swap some ingredients. Use low-fat cream cheese and sour cream. These cuts reduce calories but still taste great. You can also add more veggies. Zucchini or bell peppers work well. They add fiber and nutrients without many calories. Watch out for overcooking the spinach. Sauté it just until it wilts. You don't want mushy greens. Also, mix your cheeses well. If you don’t blend them, some bites may taste bland. Lastly, let your casserole rest after baking. This helps it set and makes serving easier. Pro Tips Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker prep time, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken. It adds flavor and saves time on cooking and shredding. Fresh Spinach vs. Frozen: Fresh spinach wilts down nicely, but if you’re short on time, frozen spinach works well too. Just ensure you thaw and drain it properly to avoid excess moisture. Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Cheddar or gouda can add a unique twist to the flavor profile of this dish. Make-Ahead Option: This casserole can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge. Just bake it when you're ready to serve for a convenient meal option. {{image_2}} You can add many vegetables to your casserole. Carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms work great. Just chop them up and sauté them with the spinach. This adds color and nutrients. You can even try broccoli for a nice crunch. Mixing different veggies keeps the dish fresh and fun. Feel free to swap out the chicken. Turkey or cooked shrimp are tasty options too. If you want a vegetarian dish, use beans or lentils. These options add great flavor and protein. Each protein brings its own taste, so experiment and find your favorite. Cheese is key to a tasty casserole. If you want a twist, try different cheeses. Cheddar or gouda can add a sharp flavor. For a creamier dish, use cream cheese or ricotta. Mixing cheeses can create a unique taste. Just remember to keep some mozzarella for that lovely melt! To keep your savory chicken and spinach casserole fresh, store it in an airtight container. Make sure it cools down before you seal it. This helps avoid moisture buildup, which can make it soggy. You can use glass or plastic containers. Just remember to label them with the date. This way, you know when you made it. When you are ready to enjoy the leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep it from drying out. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until it's hot throughout. You can also use a microwave. Heat individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, checking every minute to make sure it warms evenly. If you want to save the casserole for a later meal, freezing is a great option. First, let it cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. You can also use aluminum foil. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Then, reheat it in the oven for the best taste. Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just thaw it first and drain the excess water. This step is key to avoid a watery casserole. Frozen spinach is a great time-saver and still offers good flavor. It works well when you need a quick meal. This casserole lasts about three to four days in the fridge. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and safe to eat. If you notice any signs of spoilage, it’s best to throw it out. Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day ahead. Just mix all the ingredients and store it in the fridge. Bake it when you are ready to serve. This makes it a perfect dish for busy days or gatherings. This blog post covered essential ingredients and step-by-step cooking instructions. We explored helpful tips for adding flavor and keeping your dish healthy. I shared ideas for variations, like using different veggies or proteins. You learned how to store and reheat leftovers properly. Remember, fresh ingredients make all the difference. Explore your options and have fun while cooking. Cooking should be simple and enjoyable. Try new things, and don't stress. Embrace the process and enjoy your meals!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Are you ready to whip up a delicious Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese? This dish combines juicy chicken, fresh spinach, and creamy cheese for a meal that warms your heart. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this easy recipe has all you need. I’ll guide you through the steps, tips, and tricks to make it perfect every time. Let’s dive into this savory delight and start cooking!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Flavorful Combination: This dish is a delightful blend of creamy cheese and tender chicken that makes every bite irresistible.
  2. Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal fast.
  3. Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh spinach, this recipe not only tastes great but also adds nutritional value to your meal.
  4. Versatile Dish: This casserole can be served on its own or paired with a side salad, making it a versatile option for any occasion.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

To make the savory chicken and spinach casserole, gather these key ingredients:

– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

– 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped

– 1 cup cream cheese, softened

– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 1 cup sour cream

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon onion powder

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

Ingredient Substitutions

You can switch out some ingredients if needed. Here are some options:

– Use rotisserie chicken for ease and flavor.

– Swap cream cheese for Greek yogurt for a lighter dish.

– Try ricotta cheese instead of mozzarella for a different taste.

– Use vegetable oil if you run out of olive oil.

– For a gluten-free option, skip the breadcrumbs or use gluten-free ones.

Tips for Selecting Fresh Ingredients

Choosing fresh ingredients makes a big difference. Here are some tips:

– Look for bright green spinach with no yellow spots.

– Pick chicken that has no odor and is firm to the touch.

– Choose cream cheese that feels soft and smooth.

– For cheese, go for brands that are well-known for quality.

– Check expiration dates on sour cream and cheeses to ensure freshness.

These tips help you make a tasty casserole that everyone will love!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Tips

Start by gathering all your ingredients. This makes the process smoother. You need cooked chicken, fresh spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella, and sour cream. Don’t forget your spices! Measure everything out before you start. This way, you won’t miss anything. Chop your spinach finely. This helps it mix well in the dish.

Cooking Techniques

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach. Cook it for about three minutes. You want it wilted but bright green. Remove it from the heat. This step keeps the spinach fresh in flavor. In a big bowl, mix the shredded chicken with the spinach. Add cream cheese, mozzarella, sour cream, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until everything blends well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Baking Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the chicken and spinach mix evenly in the dish. If you want a crispy top, add breadcrumbs. Finally, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Look for bubbly and golden cheese. Let it sit for five minutes before serving. Enjoy this warm, cheesy delight!

Tips & Tricks

How to Make it Creamier

To boost the creaminess of your casserole, use more cream cheese. You can add an extra ½ cup for a richer taste. Mixing in a bit of heavy cream also helps. This will give you a velvety texture. You can also try adding sour cream or Greek yogurt. Both add creaminess and a nice tang.

Making it Healthier

To make this dish healthier, swap some ingredients. Use low-fat cream cheese and sour cream. These cuts reduce calories but still taste great. You can also add more veggies. Zucchini or bell peppers work well. They add fiber and nutrients without many calories.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

Watch out for overcooking the spinach. Sauté it just until it wilts. You don’t want mushy greens. Also, mix your cheeses well. If you don’t blend them, some bites may taste bland. Lastly, let your casserole rest after baking. This helps it set and makes serving easier.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker prep time, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken. It adds flavor and saves time on cooking and shredding.
  2. Fresh Spinach vs. Frozen: Fresh spinach wilts down nicely, but if you’re short on time, frozen spinach works well too. Just ensure you thaw and drain it properly to avoid excess moisture.
  3. Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Cheddar or gouda can add a unique twist to the flavor profile of this dish.
  4. Make-Ahead Option: This casserole can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve for a convenient meal option.

Variations

Adding Other Vegetables

You can add many vegetables to your casserole. Carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms work great. Just chop them up and sauté them with the spinach. This adds color and nutrients. You can even try broccoli for a nice crunch. Mixing different veggies keeps the dish fresh and fun.

Substituting Proteins

Feel free to swap out the chicken. Turkey or cooked shrimp are tasty options too. If you want a vegetarian dish, use beans or lentils. These options add great flavor and protein. Each protein brings its own taste, so experiment and find your favorite.

Different Cheese Options

Cheese is key to a tasty casserole. If you want a twist, try different cheeses. Cheddar or gouda can add a sharp flavor. For a creamier dish, use cream cheese or ricotta. Mixing cheeses can create a unique taste. Just remember to keep some mozzarella for that lovely melt!

Storage Info

Best Ways to Store Leftovers

To keep your savory chicken and spinach casserole fresh, store it in an airtight container. Make sure it cools down before you seal it. This helps avoid moisture buildup, which can make it soggy. You can use glass or plastic containers. Just remember to label them with the date. This way, you know when you made it.

Reheating Instructions

When you are ready to enjoy the leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep it from drying out. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until it’s hot throughout. You can also use a microwave. Heat individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, checking every minute to make sure it warms evenly.

Freezing for Later Use

If you want to save the casserole for a later meal, freezing is a great option. First, let it cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. You can also use aluminum foil. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Then, reheat it in the oven for the best taste.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just thaw it first and drain the excess water. This step is key to avoid a watery casserole. Frozen spinach is a great time-saver and still offers good flavor. It works well when you need a quick meal.

How long does this casserole last in the fridge?

This casserole lasts about three to four days in the fridge. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and safe to eat. If you notice any signs of spoilage, it’s best to throw it out.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day ahead. Just mix all the ingredients and store it in the fridge. Bake it when you are ready to serve. This makes it a perfect dish for busy days or gatherings.

This blog post covered essential ingredients and step-by-step cooking instructions. We explored helpful tips for adding flavor and keeping your dish healthy. I shared ideas for variations, like using different veggies or proteins. You learned how to store and reheat leftovers properly.

Remember, fresh ingredients make all the difference. Explore your options and have fun while cooking. Cooking should be simple and enjoyable. Try new things, and don’t stress. Embrace the process and enjoy your meal

To make the savory chicken and spinach casserole, gather these key ingredients: - 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded - 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped - 1 cup cream cheese, softened - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 cup sour cream - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping) - 2 tablespoons olive oil You can switch out some ingredients if needed. Here are some options: - Use rotisserie chicken for ease and flavor. - Swap cream cheese for Greek yogurt for a lighter dish. - Try ricotta cheese instead of mozzarella for a different taste. - Use vegetable oil if you run out of olive oil. - For a gluten-free option, skip the breadcrumbs or use gluten-free ones. Choosing fresh ingredients makes a big difference. Here are some tips: - Look for bright green spinach with no yellow spots. - Pick chicken that has no odor and is firm to the touch. - Choose cream cheese that feels soft and smooth. - For cheese, go for brands that are well-known for quality. - Check expiration dates on sour cream and cheeses to ensure freshness. These tips help you make a tasty casserole that everyone will love! {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by gathering all your ingredients. This makes the process smoother. You need cooked chicken, fresh spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella, and sour cream. Don't forget your spices! Measure everything out before you start. This way, you won't miss anything. Chop your spinach finely. This helps it mix well in the dish. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach. Cook it for about three minutes. You want it wilted but bright green. Remove it from the heat. This step keeps the spinach fresh in flavor. In a big bowl, mix the shredded chicken with the spinach. Add cream cheese, mozzarella, sour cream, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until everything blends well. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread the chicken and spinach mix evenly in the dish. If you want a crispy top, add breadcrumbs. Finally, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Look for bubbly and golden cheese. Let it sit for five minutes before serving. Enjoy this warm, cheesy delight! To boost the creaminess of your casserole, use more cream cheese. You can add an extra ½ cup for a richer taste. Mixing in a bit of heavy cream also helps. This will give you a velvety texture. You can also try adding sour cream or Greek yogurt. Both add creaminess and a nice tang. To make this dish healthier, swap some ingredients. Use low-fat cream cheese and sour cream. These cuts reduce calories but still taste great. You can also add more veggies. Zucchini or bell peppers work well. They add fiber and nutrients without many calories. Watch out for overcooking the spinach. Sauté it just until it wilts. You don't want mushy greens. Also, mix your cheeses well. If you don’t blend them, some bites may taste bland. Lastly, let your casserole rest after baking. This helps it set and makes serving easier. Pro Tips Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker prep time, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken. It adds flavor and saves time on cooking and shredding. Fresh Spinach vs. Frozen: Fresh spinach wilts down nicely, but if you’re short on time, frozen spinach works well too. Just ensure you thaw and drain it properly to avoid excess moisture. Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Cheddar or gouda can add a unique twist to the flavor profile of this dish. Make-Ahead Option: This casserole can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge. Just bake it when you're ready to serve for a convenient meal option. {{image_2}} You can add many vegetables to your casserole. Carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms work great. Just chop them up and sauté them with the spinach. This adds color and nutrients. You can even try broccoli for a nice crunch. Mixing different veggies keeps the dish fresh and fun. Feel free to swap out the chicken. Turkey or cooked shrimp are tasty options too. If you want a vegetarian dish, use beans or lentils. These options add great flavor and protein. Each protein brings its own taste, so experiment and find your favorite. Cheese is key to a tasty casserole. If you want a twist, try different cheeses. Cheddar or gouda can add a sharp flavor. For a creamier dish, use cream cheese or ricotta. Mixing cheeses can create a unique taste. Just remember to keep some mozzarella for that lovely melt! To keep your savory chicken and spinach casserole fresh, store it in an airtight container. Make sure it cools down before you seal it. This helps avoid moisture buildup, which can make it soggy. You can use glass or plastic containers. Just remember to label them with the date. This way, you know when you made it. When you are ready to enjoy the leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep it from drying out. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until it's hot throughout. You can also use a microwave. Heat individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, checking every minute to make sure it warms evenly. If you want to save the casserole for a later meal, freezing is a great option. First, let it cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. You can also use aluminum foil. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Then, reheat it in the oven for the best taste. Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just thaw it first and drain the excess water. This step is key to avoid a watery casserole. Frozen spinach is a great time-saver and still offers good flavor. It works well when you need a quick meal. This casserole lasts about three to four days in the fridge. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and safe to eat. If you notice any signs of spoilage, it’s best to throw it out. Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day ahead. Just mix all the ingredients and store it in the fridge. Bake it when you are ready to serve. This makes it a perfect dish for busy days or gatherings. This blog post covered essential ingredients and step-by-step cooking instructions. We explored helpful tips for adding flavor and keeping your dish healthy. I shared ideas for variations, like using different veggies or proteins. You learned how to store and reheat leftovers properly. Remember, fresh ingredients make all the difference. Explore your options and have fun while cooking. Cooking should be simple and enjoyable. Try new things, and don't stress. Embrace the process and enjoy your meals!

Cheesy Chicken & Spinach Delight

A creamy and cheesy chicken casserole with spinach, perfect for a comforting meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and sauté until wilted, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, wilted spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
  • Transfer the chicken and spinach mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
  • If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top for added crunch (optional).
  • Finally, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top of the casserole.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  • Remove from oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color.
Keyword casserole, cheesy, chicken, spinach

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