If you are craving a comforting dish that beautifully blends rich creaminess with wholesome greens and tender chicken, then this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Mozzarella and Parmesan Recipe is going to be your new go-to. It’s a warm, cheesy, and satisfying casserole that balances fresh spinach and shredded chicken in a luscious, cheesy sauce that simply melts in your mouth. Every bite feels like a cozy hug, making it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you need that special dose of home-cooked love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might seem simple, but each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture in this cozy casserole. From the creamy tang of cream cheese to the fresh brightness of spinach, together they make a harmonious dish that’s as delicious as it is nutritious.
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed: The hearty protein base that keeps this dish filling and satisfying.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Adds a rich, velvety texture that makes the casserole irresistibly creamy.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Brings a subtle tanginess that balances the richness beautifully.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Enhances moisture and adds depth to the creamy sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the casserole with warm, aromatic flavor.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Keeps everything moist and binds the flavors together perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to sauté the garlic and spinach, adding a silky finish.
- 10 oz fresh spinach, chopped: Offers a fresh, vibrant green color and a mild earthiness.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts to create that dreamy, gooey cheese pull.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkles a bold, savory kick on top.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Gives the casserole a fragrant, herby note.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
- Optional 1/4 cup breadcrumbs: For a golden, crunchy topping that adds texture contrast.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Mozzarella and Parmesan Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Sauté Aromatics
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add the minced garlic. Cooking the garlic just until fragrant (around a minute) releases wonderful aromas that form the flavor foundation of this dish.
Step 2: Wilt the Spinach
Add the chopped fresh spinach to the skillet with the garlic and sauté until it wilts down, which usually takes just a few minutes. This step softens the spinach and combines its flavors nicely with the garlic, setting the stage for the tasty filling that’s to come.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, chicken broth, onion powder, dried basil, salt, and pepper. This creamy mixture is the heart of the casserole, marrying tangy, savory, and herby notes while creating a luscious sauce that envelops every ingredient.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Spinach
Next, fold in the cooked chicken and sautéed spinach into the creamy mixture. Stir well until the chicken is evenly coated and the spinach is well-distributed, ensuring that each scoop of casserole tastes balanced and flavorful.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish and pour the mixture in, spreading it out evenly. This even layer ensures perfect baking and a consistent texture throughout the dish.
Step 6: Add Cheeses and Toppings
In a separate bowl, mix the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, then sprinkle them evenly over the casserole. If you love a crunchy topping, this is the moment to add a quarter cup of breadcrumbs on top for that irresistible golden finish.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and beautifully golden brown. This final baking step melds all the flavors, creating a luscious, creamy, and cheesy casserole that’s pure comfort food magic.
Step 8: Let it Rest Before Serving
Once out of the oven, let your casserole rest for a few minutes. This resting phase allows the dish to set slightly, making it easier to serve and intensifying the flavors.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Mozzarella and Parmesan Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil leaves on top to add a pop of vibrant color and a fresh herbal aroma. A few red pepper flakes can add a nice little kick if you like subtle heat, creating a delightful dimension of flavor.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with light, crisp sides like a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables that complement its creamy texture. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls also make fantastic accompaniments, perfect for sopping up every last bit of cheesy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in ramekins topped with extra cheese and breadcrumbs for a personalized golden crust. Alternatively, layering the casserole over a bed of cooked pasta or rice turns it into a hearty main course that looks as impressive as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This casserole keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain moisture and prevent the cheeses from drying out. It’s perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners later in the week.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole before baking for up to 2 months. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking as instructed for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to preserve the creamy texture and cheese’s meltiness. Microwaving works too but can sometimes make the dish a bit watery, so reheat gently and cover loosely to avoid drying out.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes! If using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out as much moisture as possible before sautéing. This prevents extra water from making the casserole too runny.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can omit the chicken and add more spinach or other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or artichoke hearts. The creamy sauce and cheeses will make it just as delicious.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time and bake later?
Definitely! You can assemble the casserole the day before and refrigerate it, then bake it when you’re ready. This is a great time-saver for busy evenings or entertaining guests.
What can I substitute for cream cheese if I don’t have any?
You can use ricotta cheese or mascarpone as a substitute, but keep in mind they might slightly change the texture and flavor, offering a lighter or sweeter note respectively.
How spicy is this casserole?
This casserole is meant to be mild and comforting, but you can easily add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the creamy base if you like a bit of spice to brighten up the flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Mozzarella and Parmesan Recipe has quickly earned a spot among my all-time favorite comfort dishes, and I’m confident it will in your kitchen too. With its irresistible creaminess, melty cheeses, and fresh spinach, this casserole is like a warm hug on a plate—perfect for sharing and savoring anytime. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe soon and let it bring joy and deliciousness to your table!
Print
Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Mozzarella and Parmesan Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy and comforting Chicken and Spinach Casserole combines tender cooked chicken, sautéed fresh spinach, and a rich blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Enhanced with garlic, basil, and savory cheeses, this baked casserole is topped with a crunchy breadcrumb layer for added texture, making it a perfect hearty dinner that’s simple to prepare and full of flavor.
Ingredients
Chicken and Spinach Mixture
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 10 oz fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Dairy and Sauce
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup chicken broth
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese Topping
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to warm up while preparing the casserole.
- Sauté garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute, being careful not to burn it.
- Wilt the spinach: Add chopped spinach to the skillet and sauté until fully wilted. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Prepare the creamy mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, chicken broth, onion powder, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Combine chicken and spinach: Mix the cooked chicken and sautéed spinach into the creamy mixture, ensuring all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Assemble the casserole: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish and spread it out evenly.
- Add cheese topping: In a separate bowl, mix shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle the cheese blend evenly over the casserole.
- Optional breadcrumb topping: For a crunchy finish, sprinkle 1/4 cup breadcrumbs evenly over the cheese layer.
- Bake the casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
- Rest and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set.
Notes
- Use cooked chicken such as rotisserie, grilled, or leftover baked chicken.
- Fresh spinach can be substituted with frozen chopped spinach; thaw and drain excess moisture before using.
- For a lower-fat version, substitute light cream cheese and sour cream.
- Breadcrumb topping is optional but adds a nice crunchy texture contrast.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to ensure smooth mixing.
- This dish can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking; increase baking time slightly if baking straight from the fridge.
