Description
This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is a creamy, flavorful dish combining tender seared chicken breasts, fresh spinach, and a rich cream cheese mixture topped with melted mozzarella cheese. It’s baked to bubbly perfection and makes a comforting meal perfect for weeknights or gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasonings
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Vegetables
- 4 cups fresh spinach
Cream Cheese Mixture
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Pinch of salt
Cheese Topping
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, black pepper, paprika, and onion powder to enhance their flavor.
- Sear the Chicken: In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil and sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are browned but not fully cooked, which locks in juices.
- Make the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Mix them well until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the fresh spinach evenly in the bottom of the greased baking dish, creating a bed for the chicken.
- Layer the Chicken and Cream Cheese: Place the seared chicken breasts on top of the spinach. Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over each chicken breast, ensuring full coverage.
- Add Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the entire casserole. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes before serving for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add some fresh herbs like thyme or basil to the cream cheese mixture.
- If you prefer, substitute mozzarella cheese with cheddar or a cheese blend.
- Check the chicken’s internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.
- This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated; bake before serving.
- Use low-fat cream cheese and sour cream for a lighter version.
