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Creamy Chicken Spinach Casserole Comfort Food Delight

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- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded - 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped - 1 cup ricotta cheese - 1 cup cream cheese, softened - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 cup cooked pasta (penne or rotini works well) To make a tasty creamy chicken spinach casserole, you need a few key ingredients. Start with cooked chicken. Shredded chicken works best since it mixes easily. Fresh spinach adds a nice touch. It brings color and nutrients to the dish. You will also need ricotta cheese. This cheese gives the casserole its creamy base. Cream cheese adds even more richness. For a cheesy topping, use mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Both melt well and give a nice, golden crust. Don’t forget the seasonings! Minced garlic adds a strong flavor. Onion powder, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning help bring everything together. You can add salt and pepper to make it taste just right. Olive oil is important too. It helps cook the garlic and spinach. If you want to make it heartier, add cooked pasta. Penne or rotini hold the sauce well. Each ingredient plays a role in making this casserole a comfort food delight. {{ingredient_image_1}} - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). - In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. - Next, add 3 cups of chopped spinach to the skillet. Cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. - In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of shredded chicken, 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of softened cream cheese, ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, and ½ cup of grated parmesan cheese. - Stir in the cooked spinach, 1 cup of cooked pasta, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. - Transfer the chicken and spinach mixture into a greased 9x13 inch casserole dish. Spread it evenly across the dish. - Top the casserole with the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese. - Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. - After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. - Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. To get a creamy texture, mix the cheeses well. I suggest using ricotta and cream cheese together. This mix makes the casserole rich and smooth. Add more cream cheese if you want extra creaminess. For seasoning, taste as you go. Start with salt and pepper. Add more Italian seasoning for flavor. Remember, fresh herbs can also brighten the dish. Just chop some basil or parsley and sprinkle on top before serving. This casserole pairs well with a simple salad. A fresh green salad with lemon dressing works great. You can also serve it with garlic bread for a hearty meal. To make your dish look fancy, add some fresh herbs on top. Chopped parsley or basil adds color and flavor. A sprinkle of extra cheese can also make it look nice. If you want to try a different method, you can use a slow cooker. Just mix all your ingredients and cook on low for 4-6 hours. This method makes the chicken very tender. You can also make it on the stovetop. Sauté your chicken and spinach first, then mix everything in a large pot. Cook until the cheese melts and serve hot. Pro Tips Use Leftover Chicken: This casserole is a perfect way to utilize leftover rotisserie chicken, adding flavor and saving time. Customize Your Greens: Feel free to substitute spinach with other greens like kale or Swiss chard for a different flavor profile and added nutrients. Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses such as feta or gouda to create a unique twist on the classic flavor. Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you're ready to serve for easy entertaining! {{image_2}} You can easily switch ingredients in this dish. If you want a different protein, try turkey or tofu. Both options work well and still taste great. For cheese, you can use dairy-free options. Look for vegan cream cheese or ricotta. These swaps keep the creamy texture while making the dish suitable for everyone. To change up the flavor, think about adding more veggies. Mushrooms and bell peppers are excellent choices. They add a nice crunch and enhance the taste. Want a little heat? Adjust the spice level by adding red pepper flakes. This small addition can transform the dish into something spicy and exciting. If you need gluten-free options, choose gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer great alternatives that taste just like regular pasta. Always check labels to ensure safety. Look for gluten-free certifications. This extra step helps keep your meal safe for those with gluten sensitivities. To keep your creamy chicken spinach casserole fresh, let it cool first. Place it in a shallow dish for quick cooling. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. This helps keep moisture in and prevents odors from other foods. Leftovers will last in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you won’t eat it in that time, it’s better to freeze it. Freezing your casserole is easy. First, cool it completely. Then, cut it into portions. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. This helps to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Heat it in the oven at 350°F until it’s warm all the way through. This usually takes about 30 minutes. Making this casserole ahead saves time on busy days. You can prepare it on the weekend and bake it when you need it. Portion it into individual servings for quick meals. Use small containers that are freezer-friendly. This way, you can grab a meal anytime you want. It's a great way to enjoy tasty food without the hassle! Bake your chicken casserole at 350°F (175°C). Cover it with foil for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes. This helps the cheese get bubbly and golden. Yes, you can make it ahead. Prepare the casserole but do not bake it. Cover and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake it straight from the fridge. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. You can use Greek yogurt as a lighter option. Sour cream also works well for a creamy texture. If you want a dairy-free choice, try blended tofu. Each option will keep your casserole delicious. Yes, this casserole freezes well. Cool it completely before wrapping it tightly. Use plastic wrap and then foil. It can stay in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking. Cooked chicken is best for this dish. You can use rotisserie chicken for quick prep. Raw chicken can work too, but it takes longer to cook. Just ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) in the center. In this blog post, we explored a delicious chicken casserole recipe. We covered key ingredients, preparation steps, and tips to boost flavor. With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, this dish is perfect for family meals. You can customize it using different proteins or veggies. Don't forget, storing leftovers correctly can keep them fresh longer. Enjoy making this casserole again and again—it’s easy to adapt and great for meal prep. Now, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Are you craving something warm and comforting? Try my creamy chicken spinach casserole. This dish combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a blend of cheeses to create a delightfully rich meal. It’s easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Let’s dive into the delicious ingredients and simple steps to make this heartwarming comfort food!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Comfort Food: This creamy casserole is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for cozy dinners with family.
  2. Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 15 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
  3. Nutritious Ingredients: Loaded with spinach and chicken, it provides a healthy dose of protein and vitamins.
  4. Cheesy Goodness: The combination of mozzarella and parmesan creates a deliciously gooey topping that everyone loves!

Ingredients

List of Main Ingredients

– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

– 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped

– 1 cup ricotta cheese

– 1 cup cream cheese, softened

– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

– 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated

Seasonings and Extras

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon onion powder

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

Optional Ingredients

– 1 cup cooked pasta (penne or rotini works well)

To make a tasty creamy chicken spinach casserole, you need a few key ingredients. Start with cooked chicken. Shredded chicken works best since it mixes easily. Fresh spinach adds a nice touch. It brings color and nutrients to the dish.

You will also need ricotta cheese. This cheese gives the casserole its creamy base. Cream cheese adds even more richness. For a cheesy topping, use mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Both melt well and give a nice, golden crust.

Don’t forget the seasonings! Minced garlic adds a strong flavor. Onion powder, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning help bring everything together. You can add salt and pepper to make it taste just right. Olive oil is important too. It helps cook the garlic and spinach.

If you want to make it heartier, add cooked pasta. Penne or rotini hold the sauce well. Each ingredient plays a role in making this casserole a comfort food delight.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

– In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

– Next, add 3 cups of chopped spinach to the skillet. Cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Mixing Ingredients

– In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of shredded chicken, 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of softened cream cheese, ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, and ½ cup of grated parmesan cheese.

– Stir in the cooked spinach, 1 cup of cooked pasta, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Baking Instructions

– Transfer the chicken and spinach mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish. Spread it evenly across the dish.

– Top the casserole with the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese.

– Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.

– After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

– Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting Your Casserole

To get a creamy texture, mix the cheeses well. I suggest using ricotta and cream cheese together. This mix makes the casserole rich and smooth. Add more cream cheese if you want extra creaminess.

For seasoning, taste as you go. Start with salt and pepper. Add more Italian seasoning for flavor. Remember, fresh herbs can also brighten the dish. Just chop some basil or parsley and sprinkle on top before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs well with a simple salad. A fresh green salad with lemon dressing works great. You can also serve it with garlic bread for a hearty meal.

To make your dish look fancy, add some fresh herbs on top. Chopped parsley or basil adds color and flavor. A sprinkle of extra cheese can also make it look nice.

Cooking Methods

If you want to try a different method, you can use a slow cooker. Just mix all your ingredients and cook on low for 4-6 hours. This method makes the chicken very tender.

You can also make it on the stovetop. Sauté your chicken and spinach first, then mix everything in a large pot. Cook until the cheese melts and serve hot.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Leftover Chicken: This casserole is a perfect way to utilize leftover rotisserie chicken, adding flavor and saving time.
  2. Customize Your Greens: Feel free to substitute spinach with other greens like kale or Swiss chard for a different flavor profile and added nutrients.
  3. Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses such as feta or gouda to create a unique twist on the classic flavor.
  4. Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve for easy entertaining!

Variations

Ingredient Substitutions

You can easily switch ingredients in this dish. If you want a different protein, try turkey or tofu. Both options work well and still taste great.

For cheese, you can use dairy-free options. Look for vegan cream cheese or ricotta. These swaps keep the creamy texture while making the dish suitable for everyone.

Flavor Variations

To change up the flavor, think about adding more veggies. Mushrooms and bell peppers are excellent choices. They add a nice crunch and enhance the taste.

Want a little heat? Adjust the spice level by adding red pepper flakes. This small addition can transform the dish into something spicy and exciting.

Gluten-Free Options

If you need gluten-free options, choose gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer great alternatives that taste just like regular pasta.

Always check labels to ensure safety. Look for gluten-free certifications. This extra step helps keep your meal safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your creamy chicken spinach casserole fresh, let it cool first. Place it in a shallow dish for quick cooling. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. This helps keep moisture in and prevents odors from other foods. Leftovers will last in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you won’t eat it in that time, it’s better to freeze it.

Freezing Tips

Freezing your casserole is easy. First, cool it completely. Then, cut it into portions. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. This helps to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Heat it in the oven at 350°F until it’s warm all the way through. This usually takes about 30 minutes.

Meal Prep Ideas

Making this casserole ahead saves time on busy days. You can prepare it on the weekend and bake it when you need it. Portion it into individual servings for quick meals. Use small containers that are freezer-friendly. This way, you can grab a meal anytime you want. It’s a great way to enjoy tasty food without the hassle!

FAQs

How long should I bake a chicken casserole?

Bake your chicken casserole at 350°F (175°C). Cover it with foil for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes. This helps the cheese get bubbly and golden.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it ahead. Prepare the casserole but do not bake it. Cover and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake it straight from the fridge. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What can I substitute for cream cheese in this recipe?

You can use Greek yogurt as a lighter option. Sour cream also works well for a creamy texture. If you want a dairy-free choice, try blended tofu. Each option will keep your casserole delicious.

Is this casserole good for freezing?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Cool it completely before wrapping it tightly. Use plastic wrap and then foil. It can stay in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking.

What type of chicken works best for the casserole?

Cooked chicken is best for this dish. You can use rotisserie chicken for quick prep. Raw chicken can work too, but it takes longer to cook. Just ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) in the center.

In this blog post, we explored a delicious chicken casserole recipe. We covered key ingredients, preparation steps, and tips to boost flavor. With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, this dish is perfect for family meals. You can customize it using different proteins or veggies. Don’t forget, storing leftovers correctly can keep them fresh longer. Enjoy making this casserole again and again—it’s easy to adapt and great for meal prep. Now, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cookin

- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded - 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped - 1 cup ricotta cheese - 1 cup cream cheese, softened - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 cup cooked pasta (penne or rotini works well) To make a tasty creamy chicken spinach casserole, you need a few key ingredients. Start with cooked chicken. Shredded chicken works best since it mixes easily. Fresh spinach adds a nice touch. It brings color and nutrients to the dish. You will also need ricotta cheese. This cheese gives the casserole its creamy base. Cream cheese adds even more richness. For a cheesy topping, use mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Both melt well and give a nice, golden crust. Don’t forget the seasonings! Minced garlic adds a strong flavor. Onion powder, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning help bring everything together. You can add salt and pepper to make it taste just right. Olive oil is important too. It helps cook the garlic and spinach. If you want to make it heartier, add cooked pasta. Penne or rotini hold the sauce well. Each ingredient plays a role in making this casserole a comfort food delight. {{ingredient_image_1}} - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). - In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. - Next, add 3 cups of chopped spinach to the skillet. Cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. - In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of shredded chicken, 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of softened cream cheese, ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, and ½ cup of grated parmesan cheese. - Stir in the cooked spinach, 1 cup of cooked pasta, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. - Transfer the chicken and spinach mixture into a greased 9x13 inch casserole dish. Spread it evenly across the dish. - Top the casserole with the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese. - Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. - After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. - Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. To get a creamy texture, mix the cheeses well. I suggest using ricotta and cream cheese together. This mix makes the casserole rich and smooth. Add more cream cheese if you want extra creaminess. For seasoning, taste as you go. Start with salt and pepper. Add more Italian seasoning for flavor. Remember, fresh herbs can also brighten the dish. Just chop some basil or parsley and sprinkle on top before serving. This casserole pairs well with a simple salad. A fresh green salad with lemon dressing works great. You can also serve it with garlic bread for a hearty meal. To make your dish look fancy, add some fresh herbs on top. Chopped parsley or basil adds color and flavor. A sprinkle of extra cheese can also make it look nice. If you want to try a different method, you can use a slow cooker. Just mix all your ingredients and cook on low for 4-6 hours. This method makes the chicken very tender. You can also make it on the stovetop. Sauté your chicken and spinach first, then mix everything in a large pot. Cook until the cheese melts and serve hot. Pro Tips Use Leftover Chicken: This casserole is a perfect way to utilize leftover rotisserie chicken, adding flavor and saving time. Customize Your Greens: Feel free to substitute spinach with other greens like kale or Swiss chard for a different flavor profile and added nutrients. Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses such as feta or gouda to create a unique twist on the classic flavor. Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you're ready to serve for easy entertaining! {{image_2}} You can easily switch ingredients in this dish. If you want a different protein, try turkey or tofu. Both options work well and still taste great. For cheese, you can use dairy-free options. Look for vegan cream cheese or ricotta. These swaps keep the creamy texture while making the dish suitable for everyone. To change up the flavor, think about adding more veggies. Mushrooms and bell peppers are excellent choices. They add a nice crunch and enhance the taste. Want a little heat? Adjust the spice level by adding red pepper flakes. This small addition can transform the dish into something spicy and exciting. If you need gluten-free options, choose gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer great alternatives that taste just like regular pasta. Always check labels to ensure safety. Look for gluten-free certifications. This extra step helps keep your meal safe for those with gluten sensitivities. To keep your creamy chicken spinach casserole fresh, let it cool first. Place it in a shallow dish for quick cooling. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. This helps keep moisture in and prevents odors from other foods. Leftovers will last in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you won’t eat it in that time, it’s better to freeze it. Freezing your casserole is easy. First, cool it completely. Then, cut it into portions. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. This helps to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Heat it in the oven at 350°F until it’s warm all the way through. This usually takes about 30 minutes. Making this casserole ahead saves time on busy days. You can prepare it on the weekend and bake it when you need it. Portion it into individual servings for quick meals. Use small containers that are freezer-friendly. This way, you can grab a meal anytime you want. It's a great way to enjoy tasty food without the hassle! Bake your chicken casserole at 350°F (175°C). Cover it with foil for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes. This helps the cheese get bubbly and golden. Yes, you can make it ahead. Prepare the casserole but do not bake it. Cover and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake it straight from the fridge. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. You can use Greek yogurt as a lighter option. Sour cream also works well for a creamy texture. If you want a dairy-free choice, try blended tofu. Each option will keep your casserole delicious. Yes, this casserole freezes well. Cool it completely before wrapping it tightly. Use plastic wrap and then foil. It can stay in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking. Cooked chicken is best for this dish. You can use rotisserie chicken for quick prep. Raw chicken can work too, but it takes longer to cook. Just ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) in the center. In this blog post, we explored a delicious chicken casserole recipe. We covered key ingredients, preparation steps, and tips to boost flavor. With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, this dish is perfect for family meals. You can customize it using different proteins or veggies. Don't forget, storing leftovers correctly can keep them fresh longer. Enjoy making this casserole again and again—it’s easy to adapt and great for meal prep. Now, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking!

Creamy Chicken Spinach Casserole

A delicious and creamy casserole featuring chicken, spinach, and a blend of cheeses.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 cup cooked pasta (penne or rotini)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, cream cheese, ½ cup mozzarella cheese, and ½ cup parmesan cheese. Stir in the cooked spinach, cooked pasta, onion powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
  • Transfer the chicken and spinach mixture into a greased 9x13 inch casserole dish. Spread evenly.
  • Top the casserole with the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
  • Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
  • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  • Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Let the casserole cool slightly before serving for easier slicing.
Keyword casserole, cheese, chicken, spinach

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