Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a warm, comforting dish packed with tender pieces of chicken, fresh spinach, and creamy cheese all baked together to golden perfection. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a cozy hug on a plate, with just the right mix of protein and greens to keep things light but satisfying.
I love making this casserole because it’s so simple to prepare but always gets raves from family and friends. One of my favorite tricks is to add a little garlic and onion for extra flavor, and a sprinkle of your favorite cheese on top gives it that perfect melty finish. Plus, it’s an easy dish to tweak based on what you have in the fridge.
When I serve this casserole, I usually pair it with a crisp salad or some crusty bread to round out the meal. It’s great as a weeknight dinner or even for a casual weekend get-together. Honestly, leftovers taste just as good the next day, making it a perfect recipe to keep on hand.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breast: Cooked chicken adds protein and texture. You can use leftover roasted chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time. For a vegetarian option, try chickpeas or tofu instead.
Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts nicely in this dish. If fresh is unavailable, frozen thawed spinach works well—just squeeze out excess water before adding.
Pasta: Penne or elbow macaroni hold the sauce nicely. Feel free to swap for fusilli, rotini, or any small pasta you like.
Cheese: Mozzarella and cheddar bring creamy melt and flavor. Parmesan adds a little bite on top. Use your favorite cheeses or omit Parmesan if you prefer a milder taste.
Sour cream or Greek yogurt: These add creaminess and tang. Greek yogurt is a great substitute for a healthier, protein-rich option.
Cream cheese and milk: Softened cream cheese melts smoothly to make the sauce rich. Milk or heavy cream adds extra creaminess. Use what you have on hand.
How Do I Get the Spinach Just Right without Making the Casserole Watery?
Spinach releases water when cooked, which can make the casserole soggy. Here are some tips to avoid that:
- Sauté spinach just until wilted (2-3 minutes), then remove from heat right away.
- Drain or pat spinach with paper towels to remove extra liquid before adding to the mix.
- Cook pasta al dente so it doesn’t absorb too much moisture and become mushy.
These steps help keep the casserole creamy without being watery.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for sautéing onions, garlic, and spinach evenly without crowding.
- Mixing bowl – big enough to combine all ingredients easily without spilling.
- Casserole dish (about 9×13 inches) – gives enough space for the casserole to bake evenly.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for stirring the mixture gently without breaking the chicken.
- Measuring cups and spoons – help you add the right amount of cheese, spices, and liquids.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for cooked turkey or ham for a twist during holidays or to use leftovers.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies and color.
- Mix in some cooked bacon bits for a smoky crunch that pairs well with the cheeses.
- Try swapping mozzarella for pepper jack to add a mild spicy kick.
Chicken and Spinach Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or elbow macaroni work well)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
Cheese and Dairy:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
Other Ingredients:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning or mixed herbs
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare, including sautéing and mixing. Then bake it in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes until golden and bubbly. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Total time: about 45 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Veggies:
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, warm the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant.
2. Wilt the Spinach:
Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook just until it wilts, about 2-3 minutes. Then take the skillet off the heat.
3. Make the Creamy Mixture:
In a big mixing bowl, blend together the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), softened cream cheese, milk (or cream), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Combine Everything:
Stir in the cooked chicken, sautéed spinach and onion mix, cooked pasta, and half of the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Mix gently until everything is well combined.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Lightly grease your casserole dish, then spread the whole mixture evenly inside. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses on top. If you’d like, add the halved cherry tomatoes for a fresh pop of color.
6. Bake and Serve:
Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley and serving warm.
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Yes! Make sure to thaw the frozen spinach completely and squeeze out all excess water before adding it to the casserole to prevent it from becoming watery.
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge. When ready, bake it for the full 25-30 minutes, you may need to add a few extra minutes if it’s chilled.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Substitute the Chicken with Another Protein?
Absolutely! Cooked turkey, ham, or even canned beans can work well as alternatives depending on your preference and dietary needs.
