Introduction

This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is a comforting, creamy dish perfect for a satisfying dinner. Tender chicken cutlets are layered with a flavorful spinach and cream cheese mixture, then baked until bubbly and golden. It’s simple to prepare and sure to please the whole family.

A close-up of a creamy spinach and chicken lasagna slice being lifted from a white plate with a fork. The dish has visible layers that include browned, melted cheese on top with golden spots, then a creamy white sauce with melted cheese, dark green spinach leaves, and pieces of tender white chicken. The cheese appears gooey and stretchy, pulling strands as the slice is lifted. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, adding a clean background to the rich and cheesy lasagna. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 cups fresh spinach
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
½ cup Parmesan cheese, optional

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Set aside.
Step 2: Cut the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create four cutlets. Pound the thicker ends with a rolling pin to even out the thickness.
Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cutlets, toss to coat, then cover and chill for 15-30 minutes in the fridge.
Step 4: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the spinach and cook, stirring frequently, until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 5: In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Stir in the wilted spinach, ½ cup mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese if using, mixing until well combined.
Step 6: Remove chicken cutlets from the marinade and let excess drip off. Optionally, sear the chicken in the skillet for 1-2 minutes per side for extra flavor. Then arrange the cutlets in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
Step 7: Spread the spinach and cream cheese mixture evenly over the chicken. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup mozzarella cheese over the top.
Step 8: Bake uncovered for 20-30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and lightly browned. Let the casserole stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use pre-cut chicken cutlets to save prep time and ensure even cooking.
If using frozen spinach, thaw thoroughly and squeeze out excess liquid to avoid a watery casserole.
For extra flavor, sauté minced garlic with the spinach before mixing it with the cream cheese.
Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a mild spicy kick.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals to avoid drying out the chicken.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a creamy spinach and chicken lasagna piece lifted from a white plate with a silver fork. The dish has several layers: a melted golden brown cheese top layer with browned spots, a creamy white sauce layer beneath, green cooked spinach leaves spread unevenly inside, and chunks of white chicken mixed in a rich, smooth sauce at the bottom. The cheese stretches slightly as the fork lifts the piece, showing gooey texture and melted cheese strands. The plate rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach. Make sure to thaw it fully and squeeze out as much moisture as possible to keep the casserole from becoming watery.

Is it necessary to sear the chicken before baking?

Searing the chicken is optional but recommended. It adds extra flavor and a nice texture. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step and bake the chicken directly.