Description
Creamy spinach chicken casserole delivers comfort and elegance in one delightful dish. Melted mozzarella and rich cream cheese blend perfectly, creating a mouthwatering meal that satisfies both hunger and culinary cravings while promising pure dining pleasure.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Dairy and Other Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 ounces (115 grams) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the center for even heating.
- Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by coating the interior with a thin layer of olive oil or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the shredded chicken with softened cream cheese, creating a smooth and even mixture.
- Fold in fresh spinach leaves, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the chicken and cream cheese blend.
- Incorporate minced garlic, dried herbs, salt, and black pepper into the mixture, stirring gently to distribute the seasonings uniformly.
- Transfer the chicken and spinach mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer to ensure consistent cooking.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously across the top of the casserole, covering the entire surface for a golden, melted cheese finish.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese turns golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the dish to set before serving.
- Garnish with optional fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added color and flavor before serving hot.
Notes
- Swap regular cream cheese for low-fat or dairy-free alternatives to make this dish more diet-friendly for those watching calories or avoiding dairy.
- Maximize flavor by using fresh spinach instead of frozen, which adds a brighter taste and better texture to the casserole.
- Enhance protein content by adding quinoa or brown rice to the bottom of the baking dish for a more substantial meal that keeps you fuller longer.
- Control sodium levels by using low-sodium chicken broth and reducing added salt, making this recipe heart-healthy and suitable for those monitoring salt intake.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 41g
- Cholesterol: 110mg