Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese
A comforting dish that combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and creamy cheese in one delicious bake, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 large 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 Fresh will offer the best flavor and texture.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened Ensure it's at room temperature for easier blending.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to create four thin cutlets. Pound the thicker ends for even cooking.
- In a bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Marinate the chicken in this mixture for 15-30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat in a skillet. Add the spinach and cook for about 2-3 minutes until wilted. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth, then mix in the spinach and 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese (add Parmesan if using).
- Optionally, sear the marinated chicken in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes per side for added flavor.
Baking
- Place the chicken in the baking dish, spread the cream cheese mixture over the chicken, and top with the 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
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish also reheats beautifully in the oven or microwave. For longer storage, feel free to freeze portions, ensuring it's well-sealed.