Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

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Introduction:

This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is the perfect comfort food for a cozy family dinner. Packed with tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a creamy, cheesy base, it’s a hearty dish that’s easy to prepare and loaded with flavor. The golden breadcrumb topping adds the perfect crunch, making every bite irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 cup cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped spinach, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
  3. Gently fold in the cooked rice until it’s well incorporated into the creamy mixture.
  4. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
  5. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil until they are evenly coated. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the casserole.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the top is golden brown.
  7. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Notes:

  • Swap out the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom if you prefer a different flavor.
  • If you want extra texture, mix in some sautéed mushrooms or chopped bell peppers.
  • For a low-carb version, replace the rice with cauliflower rice.
  • Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.

Helpful Tips

  1. Shred the Chicken Well – Using shredded chicken rather than cubed ensures that every bite is coated in the creamy sauce. You can use rotisserie chicken for extra flavor and convenience.
  2. Drain Excess Moisture from Spinach – If using frozen spinach, make sure to squeeze out as much water as possible to prevent the casserole from becoming too watery. If using fresh spinach, sauté it lightly to release moisture.
  3. Toast the Breadcrumbs for Extra Crunch – For an extra crispy topping, toast the breadcrumbs in a dry skillet for 1-2 minutes before mixing them with olive oil. This will add a golden-brown crunch even before baking.

Serving Suggestions

  1. Pair with a Fresh Side Salad – A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole. Try adding cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions for extra freshness.
  2. Serve with a Side of Garlic Bread – A warm slice of buttery garlic bread or a soft dinner roll makes this meal even more satisfying by soaking up the delicious creamy sauce.
  3. Add a Light Soup Starter – A brothy soup like chicken or vegetable soup pairs well to create a well-rounded meal without feeling too heavy.

Substitutions and Variations

  1. Swap Rice for a Low-Carb Alternative – If you’re looking to cut carbs, replace the cooked rice with cauliflower rice or even quinoa for a protein boost.
  2. Use Different Cheeses for More Flavor – Instead of cheddar, try mozzarella for a milder taste or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Adding a bit of Gruyère or Swiss cheese will also give the casserole a deeper, nutty flavor.
  3. Make It a One-Dish Meal with More Veggies – Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to increase the veggie content and make the dish even heartier. If adding more vegetables, sauté them first to prevent excess moisture from affecting the casserole’s texture.

Conservation and Storage

  1. Store in an Airtight Container – Once cooled, transfer the casserole to an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3-4 days. This helps maintain freshness while preventing it from absorbing unwanted fridge odors.
  2. Freeze for Longer Storage – If you want to store it for longer, freeze the casserole in individual portions or as a whole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, and label it with the date. It can last up to 3 months when stored properly.
  3. Reheat with Care – To preserve the creamy texture, reheat in the oven at 325°F (163°C) for 15-20 minutes, covering it with foil to prevent drying out. If reheating in the microwave, add a splash of milk or cream and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to maintain creaminess.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Skipping the Squeeze on Spinach – If using frozen spinach, failing to squeeze out excess water can make the casserole watery. Always press out moisture using a paper towel or a clean kitchen towel before mixing it in.
  2. Overbaking the Casserole – Baking too long can dry out the chicken and make the cheese tough instead of creamy. Stick to 25-30 minutes, and check for bubbling edges and a golden-brown top to ensure it’s done.
  3. Not Mixing Ingredients Properly – Unevenly mixed ingredients can lead to pockets of dryness or uneven flavors in the casserole. Take the time to thoroughly stir everything together, ensuring that the sauce coats all the chicken, spinach, and rice evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

    • Yes! Assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before baking as usual.

  2. Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

    • Absolutely! If using fresh spinach, roughly chop it and add it directly. If you prefer a softer texture, lightly sauté it for 2-3 minutes before mixing it in.

  3. What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?

    • If you prefer a homemade option, substitute with a mixture of 1 cup heavy cream, 1 tablespoon butter, and 1/2 teaspoon chicken bouillon for a rich, creamy alternative.

  4. How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

    • To make this casserole gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and replace the cream of chicken soup with a gluten-free version. You can also swap the rice for a naturally gluten-free option like quinoa or cauliflower rice.

Conclusion

This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is the perfect balance of comfort and convenience, making it an ideal dish for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. With its rich, cheesy texture, tender chicken, and flavorful spinach, every bite is satisfying and packed with goodness. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with different cheeses, vegetables, or protein swaps to suit your taste preferences.

Whether you’re making it ahead of time, freezing leftovers, or reheating for a quick meal, this casserole remains delicious and comforting every time. Serve it alongside a fresh salad, warm garlic bread, or a light soup for a well-rounded meal.

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Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

  • Author: Avery
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
Print Recipe

Description

This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is the perfect comfort food for a cozy family dinner. Packed with tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a creamy, cheesy base, it’s a hearty dish that’s easy to prepare and loaded with flavor. The golden breadcrumb topping adds the perfect crunch, making every bite irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 cup cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped spinach, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
  3. Gently fold in the cooked rice until it’s well incorporated into the creamy mixture.
  4. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
  5. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil until they are evenly coated. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the casserole.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the top is golden brown.
  7. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Swap out the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom if you prefer a different flavor.
  • If you want extra texture, mix in some sautéed mushrooms or chopped bell peppers.
  • For a low-carb version, replace the rice with cauliflower rice.
  • Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 portion
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: creamy chicken casserole, chicken and spinach bake, easy family dinner, cheesy casserole

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