Description
This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is a deliciously creamy and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken breasts, sautéed spinach, and rich cream cheese, topped with gooey mozzarella. Perfect for busy nights or meal prep, this casserole is easily customizable and sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade:
- 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
Cream Cheese Spinach Mixture:
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare Chicken: Cut each chicken breast in half horizontally to create four thin cutlets. Pound to even thickness.
- Marinate Chicken: Whisk 1 tablespoon olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Marinate chicken for 15-30 minutes.
- Sauté Spinach: Cook spinach in olive oil until wilted. Set aside.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: Beat cream cheese, then mix with spinach and 1/2 cup mozzarella (and Parmesan if using).
- Optional Searing: Sear marinated chicken in skillet for added flavor.
- Assemble Casserole: Arrange chicken in baking dish, top with cream cheese mixture and remaining mozzarella.
- Bake: Bake for 20-30 minutes until chicken is cooked and cheese is melted and browned.
- Rest and Serve: Let casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can use frozen spinach but make sure to thaw and squeeze out any excess moisture.
- Leftovers store well in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- You can substitute chicken thighs for breasts for a juicier option.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
