Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that delivers pure cozy comfort in every bite, look no further than this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole. Picture a bubbly, golden cheese topping that gives way to a velvety bed of tender chicken, fresh spinach, and perfectly cooked rice, all wrapped up in a luscious, savory sauce. This is one of those family favorites that always draws a crowd—whether you’re serving a casual weeknight dinner or a special Sunday meal. What makes this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole truly shine is just how easily it comes together with a handful of staple ingredients. Prepare to fall in love with a new classic!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a supporting role, making the Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole deeply flavorful, creamy, and satisfyingly filling. Nothing fussy here—just tried-and-true building blocks that guarantee delicious results time after time.

• Olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps soften the onions to sweet perfection.
• Small onion (chopped): Its savory sweetness creates the aromatic foundation your casserole needs.
• Garlic (minced): Brings a warm depth of flavor that infuses every bite with irresistible aroma.
• Fresh spinach (chopped): Infuses bursts of color and freshness while sneaking in some leafy greens.
• Cooked shredded chicken breast: Humble but hearty, this protein powerhouse makes the casserole filling and satisfying.
• Cream of chicken soup: The secret to that silky, ultra-creamy sauce you crave in every casserole!
• Sour cream: Adds a tangy creaminess and gives the casserole an extra luscious texture.
• Milk: Helps thin out the sauce just enough to keep things perfectly moist and spoonable.
• Dijon mustard: A little zingy kick that brightens the entire dish and balances the creaminess.
• Salt: Essential for dialing up all the savory flavors.
• Black pepper: Lends a hint of warmth for the perfect touch of seasoning.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese (divided): This melty cheese forms both the gooey interior and the bubbly top.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Brings nutty, salty depth to every forkful.
• Cooked white or brown rice: The hearty, wholesome base that ties all the creamy goodness together.
• Paprika (optional): Sprinkled on top, it adds gentle smokiness and a beautiful pop of color.

How to Make Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so that it’s ready to provide that golden, bubbling finish. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with a little olive oil or nonstick spray—this will make serving and cleanup a breeze later on.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Spinach

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat, then toss in your chopped onion. Sauté for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions soften and turn translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for just a minute—don’t let it brown, just enough to let that dazzling aroma fill your kitchen. Add in your chopped spinach and stir until it’s wilted and beautifully green. The combination forms a fresh and flavorful base for your Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole.

Step 3: Mix Everything Together

Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the cooked shredded chicken, the fragrant onions, garlic, wilted spinach, the can of cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan, and your cooked rice. Don’t be afraid to dive in with a big spoon (or even your hands) to make sure every ingredient is nicely coated in that dreamy, creamy sauce.

Step 4: Fill the Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into your prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese, letting it blanket the casserole for that signature gooey finish. If you’re feeling fancy, give it a sprinkling of paprika for a little smoky flavor and stunning color.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the casserole into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until it’s bubbling around the edges and the cheese has completely melted into a mouthwatering golden layer. Once it’s out, let it rest for five minutes. This little pause lets everything set up, making for perfect slices and happy eaters.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

Garnishes

To really let the flavors pop, try sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or chives over each serving of Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole. Not only do these herbs add a splash of color, but they also bring a burst of freshness that cuts through the richness. A light crack of black pepper or a few red pepper flakes can also bring a dash of excitement to your plate.

Side Dishes

This casserole is wonderfully filling, but you can round out your meal by serving it alongside a crisp green salad tossed in a zippy vinaigrette, or some steamed broccoli or asparagus for extra color and crunch. Warm crusty bread or flaky dinner rolls are also perfect for soaking up every last bit of creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try spooning the Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole mixture into individual ramekins for personal servings—kids (and adults!) love their own mini casseroles. Or, stuff the casserole filling into hollowed bell peppers and bake until the peppers are tender; it looks gorgeous and makes for a memorable meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole keeps wonderfully in the fridge. Simply cover the dish tightly with foil or transfer portions to an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to three days, making it perfect for lunches or another super quick dinner.

Freezing

If you want to stash some for future cravings, this casserole is a freezer superstar! Assemble the casserole up to the baking step, then cover it tightly with both plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as instructed. You can also freeze already baked leftovers, just expect the texture to be a little softer after reheating.

Reheating

To bring your Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole back to bubbly goodness, reheat portions in the oven (covered with foil) at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. For a speedy option, microwave individual servings in 30-second bursts, stirring occasionally, until nice and hot.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and drain the frozen spinach really well—squeeze out any excess liquid, or your casserole could end up watery. Frozen spinach is a great timesaver for this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole.

What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?

If you prefer to skip canned soup, you can make a simple homemade white sauce with butter, flour, milk, and chicken stock. Just cook until slightly thickened and season well before adding to your mixture.

Can I make Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole gluten-free?

Yes! Just use a certified gluten-free cream of chicken soup, and double-check that your Dijon mustard and other ingredients are gluten-free. The casserole turns out just as delicious and comforting.

Is there a way to lighten up this recipe?

Definitely. Swap the sour cream for Greek yogurt, use part-skim cheeses, and substitute riced cauliflower for the rice for a lower-carb, lighter version. The Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is very forgiving to these swaps.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, it’s perfect for prepping in advance! Assemble the casserole, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator overnight. When dinnertime rolls around, just bake as directed—no extra steps needed.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about pulling a hot, bubbling Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole from the oven and sharing it with people you love. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping for the week, this dish is bound to deliver satisfaction and smiles. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it quickly becomes your new favorite too!

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