Dreamy, creamy, and comforting — this Chicken Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is exactly what weeknight dinners were made for. It combines tender shredded chicken, silky cream cheese, bright fresh spinach, and gooey melted cheese over rice or pasta. The texture is rich and creamy, the aroma is warm with garlic and onion, and the topping browns into a golden crust that makes every serving feel special. If you love cozy casseroles that reheat beautifully, this one will become a favorite. For a similar creamy starter idea, try this creamy Boursin-style appetizer to serve before the main dish.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
(Approximate per serving)
- Calories per serving: 410 kcal
- Protein: 22 g
- Carbohydrates: 11 g
- Fat: 30 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Sugar: 2.5 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
Why Make This Dreamy Creamy Chicken Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese
This casserole is fast, forgiving, and deeply satisfying. It uses simple pantry and fridge staples to create a creamy, hearty meal. The cream cheese gives a smooth, velvety texture, while the spinach adds a fresh, slightly earthy bite and a pop of color. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep because it reheats well and stays creamy without drying out.
How to Make Dreamy Creamy Chicken Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese
This recipe is a straightforward mix-and-bake dish. You’ll combine cooked chicken, cream cheese, sour cream, vegetables, and cooked rice or pasta, then bake until bubbly and golden. Follow the four clear steps below to keep the process simple and the results reliable.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (like mozzarella or cheddar)
- 1 cup cooked rice or pasta
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch or similar baking dish with a little oil or nonstick spray. Make sure any cooked rice or pasta is drained and slightly cooled. Soften the cream cheese at room temperature for easier mixing, and chop the spinach and onion.
Step 2: Mixing
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped spinach, softened cream cheese, sour cream, diced onion, minced garlic, cooked rice or pasta, and the seasonings (salt, black pepper, paprika). Stir until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined. Taste and adjust salt or pepper if needed.
Step 3: Cooking
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top in an even layer. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
Step 4: Finishing
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5–10 minutes to set. This rest time helps it hold shape when scooped. Garnish with a little extra chopped spinach or a sprinkle of paprika if you like. Serve warm.
How to Serve Dreamy Creamy Chicken Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese
Serve this casserole hot and creamy, scooped onto plates with a spatula. It pairs well with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to add a crunchy contrast. For a heartier meal, offer crusty bread or a simple side of steamed broccoli. The warm, cheesy top and tender filling make it great for casual family meals or for bringing to potlucks.
How to Store Dreamy Creamy Chicken Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes or until warmed through; cover with foil to keep it moist.
- Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until hot. Some separation of dairy may occur; stir gently before reheating if needed.
Expert Tips for Perfect Dreamy Creamy Chicken Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese
- Use warm (not hot) cooked rice or pasta to help the mix combine evenly.
- Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes to make mixing smoother.
- Sauté the onion and garlic briefly (1–2 minutes) in a little oil for a sweeter, milder flavor if you prefer.
- For extra moisture, add 2–3 tablespoons of milk or chicken broth if the mixture seems very thick.
- Taste before baking and adjust the salt and pepper — shredded cheese can add saltiness.
- If you want a crunchy topping, mix 1/2 cup breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese before baking.
- Use rotisserie chicken or leftover roast chicken to save time without sacrificing flavor.
Delicious Variations
- Mediterranean: Swap spinach for chopped sun-dried tomatoes and artichoke hearts; use feta instead of cheddar.
- Mushroom & Herb: Add 1 cup sautéed mushrooms and a teaspoon of dried thyme for earthy depth.
- Low-Carb: Replace rice/pasta with riced cauliflower or omit entirely and add extra vegetables.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in 1/2 teaspoon cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce for heat.
- Alfredo Style: Replace sour cream with 1 cup Alfredo sauce and use Parmesan cheese for a richer flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen spinach?
A: Yes. Thaw and squeeze out excess water before mixing to avoid a watery casserole. Use about 3/4 cup thawed spinach in place of 1 cup fresh.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. Prepare the casserole through Step 2, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the shredded cheese and bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes if cold from the fridge.
Q: What if I don’t have cream cheese?
A: Substitute with 1 cup ricotta mixed with 2 tablespoons butter for a similar creamy texture, or use 1 cup softened goat cheese for tangy flavor, but expect a different taste.
Q: How can I make this lighter?
A: Use low-fat cream cheese and sour cream, reduce the shredded cheese to 1/2 cup, and use shredded chicken breast with riced cauliflower instead of rice.
Q: Will this reheat well?
A: Yes. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave. The oven restores texture best — cover with foil and bake at 350°F until warmed through.
Q: Can I add more vegetables?
A: Of course. Peas, bell peppers, or zucchini work well. Sauté firmer vegetables first to remove excess moisture.
Q: Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
A: Yes. Freeze in a covered dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake until hot.
Conclusion
This Dreamy Creamy Chicken Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is a warm, comforting dish that’s easy to make and full of creamy texture and comforting flavors. It’s perfect for busy nights, potlucks, or when you want something both simple and special. For another cheesy spinach-and-chicken option that might inspire a future variation, check out this Cheesy Chicken Spinach Bake – Life In The Lofthouse. Give this casserole a try — it’s cozy, forgiving, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Print
Dreamy Creamy Chicken Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A comforting and creamy casserole featuring tender chicken, fresh spinach, and gooey melted cheese, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (like mozzarella or cheddar)
- 1 cup cooked rice or pasta
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch or similar baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped spinach, cream cheese, sour cream, diced onion, minced garlic, cooked rice or pasta, and seasonings. Stir until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbling and lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5–10 minutes. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Use warm cooked rice or pasta for better mixing. Let cream cheese sit at room temperature for smoother mixing. For a crunchy topping, add breadcrumbs mixed with butter before baking.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 2.5g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 1.5g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
