Name: Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups fresh spinach; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, optional

Jump to Recipe· 4.8 from 15 reviews

Craving something creamy, satisfying, and surprisingly quick to assemble? Our Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is the answer to those hectic weeknight dinner dilemmas, blending juicy chicken breasts, rich cream cheese, and pockets of vibrant spinach under a comforting layer of mozzarella. This is one of those recipes that delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss, and it’s easily tailored with extra veggies or different cheeses. Whether you’re serving the family or tucking away meal prep portions for later, there’s a good reason Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese gets requested again and again!

Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the essentials! Each ingredient in Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese brings either bold flavor, luscious texture, or pops of color to this beautiful bake. Grab these staples and you’ll have dinner magic in no time.

Chicken Breasts: Slicing them into thin cutlets ensures every bite is juicy and soaks up all those savory flavors.
Olive Oil: Divided for marinating and sautéing, it gives the chicken extra moisture and helps wilt the spinach nicely.
Fresh Garlic: Minced and aromatic, this foundation ingredient infuses the casserole with irresistible depth.
Italian Seasoning: A classic blend that delivers herby brightness and elevates both the chicken and the sauce.
Salt & Black Pepper: Simple but essential—the duo enhances every ingredient and ties the whole dish together.
Fresh Spinach: It wilts down, adding color, freshness, and plenty of nutrients without overpowering the creamy sauce.
Cream Cheese: The star of the show! Make sure it’s softened so you end up with that perfect velvety texture.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Melts like a dream and creates that coveted golden, stretchy top layer.
Parmesan Cheese (Optional): Adds a salty, nutty edge—grate some over the top if you love a little extra punch.

How to Make Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch dish. This ensures your Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese will lift out easily later, and that none of the creamy goodness sticks to the sides.

Step 2: Slice and Pound the Chicken

Cut each chicken breast in half horizontally to create four even cutlets. Give the thicker ends a gentle pounding so every piece cooks at the same speed and stays extra tender.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of olive oil with the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Toss the chicken cutlets in this fragrant marinade, then cover and chill in the fridge for 15 to 30 minutes. This not only infuses flavor, but also keeps your chicken juicy.

Step 4: Sauté the Spinach

While the chicken marinates, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the fresh spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until it’s wilted and glossy. Set the spinach aside; it’s going straight into the creamy filling!

Step 5: Mix the Cream Cheese Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and fluffy. Stir in the wilted spinach and half of the mozzarella cheese. If you’re feeling fancy, toss in some Parmesan for even more flavor.

Step 6: Sear the Chicken (Optional, but Flavorful!)

If you have a few spare minutes, sear the marinated chicken cutlets for about 1-2 minutes per side in a hot skillet. It adds wonderful color and a layer of savory flavor you’ll notice in each bite.

Step 7: Assemble the Casserole

Arrange the chicken cutlets in your prepared baking dish. Spoon the cream cheese and spinach mixture generously over the chicken, then sprinkle on the remaining mozzarella cheese so you get that stretchy, bubbly topping everyone loves.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Slide the casserole into the oven and bake for 20-30 minutes. Check for that beautiful, melted cheese and a golden top—the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in all the moisture.

How to Serve Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped chives brightens up the entire casserole. For extra color and a dash of sharpness, try a light dusting of Parmesan or even a few thinly sliced cherry tomatoes before serving.

Side Dishes

This casserole begs for something simple and fresh alongside. A crisp green salad, roasted asparagus, or even steamed broccoli pair beautifully with Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese, letting those creamy flavors really shine.

Creative Ways to Present

You can scoop individual portions into pretty ramekins for a dinner party, or layer the casserole over a bed of fluffy rice or gluten-free pasta for a heartier meal. Leftover Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese also makes an incredible filling for wraps or sandwiches the next day!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese holds up beautifully. Simply cover and refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to three days. The flavors actually get better as they meld together overnight.

Freezing

This casserole freezes really well. Let it cool completely, then package individual servings or the whole pan tightly in foil and plastic wrap. You can freeze it for up to two months—perfect for when you want a cozy meal without the prep.

Reheating

To reheat, bake covered at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly—about 20 minutes if thawed, or a little longer from frozen. For single portions, the microwave works in a pinch, but a quick oven bake restores the best cheesy texture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs stay extra juicy and are wonderful in this casserole. Just be sure to adjust the baking time a little if the pieces are thicker.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Frozen spinach works great for Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese. Just make sure to thaw it thoroughly and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the cream cheese mixture.

What cheeses can I substitute if I don’t have mozzarella?

Feel free to swap in shredded Monterey Jack or provolone for mozzarella, or mix them for a unique flavor. Even a little sharp cheddar can add a fun twist to the classic.

How do I make this casserole ahead of time?

You can fully assemble the casserole (minus the final mozzarella layer), cover, and refrigerate it overnight. Add the final cheese just before baking so it stays perfectly melty and golden.

Is Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese gluten free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten free as written. Just double check your labels on the cheeses and seasonings to be sure if you’re preparing for someone with celiac or a gluten intolerance.

Final Thoughts

If you need a comforting, delicious recipe you’ll turn to time and again, give Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese a try. It’s creamy, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to gather everyone around the table. Enjoy every bite!