Description
This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is the perfect creamy and indulgent meal for busy nights. Tender chicken breasts, rich cream cheese, and sautéed spinach are topped with gooey mozzarella for a flavorful, satisfying dish. Ideal for meal prep, this recipe is easily customizable with various cheeses and vegetables. Whether you're cooking for a family or making leftovers, this casserole will quickly become a favorite weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 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
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cut each chicken breast in half horizontally to create four thin cutlets. Pound the thicker ends to ensure even thickness.
- In a bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Toss the chicken in the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes.
- In a skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Set aside.
- Beat softened cream cheese in a bowl, then stir in spinach and 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (and Parmesan if using).
- Optionally, sear the marinated chicken in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes per side for added flavor.
- Arrange the chicken in the baking dish, spread the cream cheese and spinach mixture over it, and top with remaining mozzarella.
- Bake for 20-30 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
- Let the 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 also swap chicken breasts for thighs for a juicier option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
