Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich, creamy sauce all baked to bubbly perfection. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, with the spinach adding a nice pop of color and the chicken making it hearty enough to be a full dinner.
I love making this casserole when I want something that’s not too complicated but still feels special. The creamy sauce is simple to whip up, and it keeps the chicken juicy and the spinach soft but flavorful. I usually add a little bit of cheese on top so it melts and gets golden in the oven—that always makes it extra cozy and tempting.
One of my favorite ways to serve this casserole is with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad. It’s great for a weeknight meal, but I’ve also brought it to family dinners because everyone seems to enjoy it. Honestly, it’s one of those dishes that feels like home, no matter who’s eating it.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Cooked chicken breast is great here for tender bites. You can swap with rotisserie chicken for convenience or even use cooked turkey for a twist.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds vibrant color and freshness, but frozen works well too — just be sure to drain it well to avoid extra moisture.
Sour Cream or Cream Cheese: Both give creaminess and tang. I prefer sour cream for a lighter feel, but cream cheese makes it richer. For dairy-free, try a plant-based cream cheese alternative.
Cheese: Mozzarella melts beautifully, giving a gooey top. Parmesan adds a nutty flavor. You could swap mozzarella with Monterey Jack or cheddar for a different profile.
How Do You Make a Smooth and Thick Cream Sauce?
Making a creamy sauce can be tricky if lumps form or it stays runny. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by cooking flour with butter or oil to make a roux, stirring constantly to avoid raw flour taste.
- Slowly add milk and broth while whisking — this stops lumps from forming and helps the sauce thicken evenly.
- Cook on medium heat, whisking often, until the sauce coats the back of a spoon and feels silky.
- Remove from heat before adding sour cream or cream cheese to prevent curdling.
Patience with heat and constant stirring is key — this gives the casserole its creamy, luscious texture!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – great for sautéing onions and garlic and making the creamy sauce evenly.
- Whisk – helps you mix the roux and liquids smoothly to avoid lumps in the sauce.
- Medium casserole dish (about 8×8 inches) – just the right size to hold the chicken and spinach layers and bake evenly.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – perfect for stirring without scratching your pan.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for cooked turkey or ham for a different but tasty protein twist.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra texture and a flavor boost.
- Use a mix of cheeses like cheddar or Gruyère to change the melty cheese flavor.
- Stir in crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika if you like a bit of heat and smokiness.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 4 cups fresh spinach (or 1 10-ounce package frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup sour cream or cream cheese
Cheese and Seasonings:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to bake. Allow an extra 5 minutes to cool before serving. So, about 50 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect recipe for an easy weeknight meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Dish:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a medium-sized casserole dish so the casserole doesn’t stick.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Stir in the flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid a raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in the milk and chicken broth, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens and is smooth, about 5 to 7 minutes.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the sour cream or cream cheese until smooth. Add the cooked chicken, fresh or thawed spinach, dried thyme if you’re using it, and season with salt and pepper. Mix everything until well coated in the creamy sauce.
5. Layer and Add Cheese:
Pour half of the chicken and spinach mixture into the casserole dish. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan over it. Add the remaining chicken mixture on top, then cover with the rest of the cheeses. Sprinkle the paprika on top if you like some color.
6. Bake and Serve:
Bake the casserole uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, until it’s bubbly and the cheese is golden brown. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. This dish pairs beautifully with crisp bread or a fresh green salad.
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the frozen spinach completely and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the casserole. This helps keep the dish from becoming watery.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Substitute Other Cheeses?
Sure! Cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère work well and can add different flavors. Just use the same quantity called for in the recipe.
