Easy Family-Friendly Casserole

Featured in Evening Meals Made Beautiful.

One-pan wonder: Creamy, cheesy chicken and spinach casserole that's sure to please the whole family. Delicious and super easy to make!
Barbara Chef
Updated on Sat, 05 Apr 2025 20:25:44 GMT
A bowl of chicken and spinach. Pin it
A bowl of chicken and spinach. | gracefulflavors.com

Imagine a dish that feels like a warm hug, packed with flavor and comfort. This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is the ultimate culinary embrace – a one-pan wonder that transforms simple ingredients into a meal so delicious, it'll have everyone asking for seconds. Tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and a sauce so creamy it'll make your taste buds dance.

The first time I made this casserole, it was during one of those chaotic family dinners. One bite, and suddenly the kitchen went quiet – except for the sounds of pure enjoyment. That's the power of a truly great comfort food.

Ingredient Spotlight: The Flavor Champions

  • Chicken: The protein hero. Rotisserie chicken is your secret weapon
  • Spinach: Adds color, nutrition, and a fresh twist
  • Cheese: Mozzarella for creaminess, Parmesan for that nutty depth
  • Cream Sauce: The magic that brings everything together
  • Seasonings: Italian herbs that transform good into extraordinary

Every ingredient tells a story. The chicken brings substance, the spinach brings brightness, and the sauce? Pure culinary magic that makes everything sing.

A bowl of chicken and spinach. Pin it
A bowl of chicken and spinach. | gracefulflavors.com

Mastering the Casserole: Detailed Cooking Method

Spinach Preparation:
Quick sauté in a hot pan. We're not just cooking – we're coaxing out flavor. Those wilted greens are about to become something magical.
Sauce Alchemy:
Cream, sour cream, broth – whisk like your dinner depends on it. This is where the magic happens. Smooth, silky, with layers of flavor.
Layer Like a Pro:
Chicken first. Then spinach. Then that incredible sauce. We're building flavor skyscrapers, people.
Cheese Finale:
Sprinkle cheese like you're an artist. Those golden, bubbly edges? Pure dinner perfection.
Bake to Brilliance:
Oven transforms everything. Crispy edges, bubbling sauce, pure comfort incoming.

My grandmother always said the best meals tell a story. This casserole? It's an epic tale of comfort, creativity, and love.

A bowl of chicken and spinach. Pin it
A bowl of chicken and spinach. | gracefulflavors.com

Meal Prep and Storage Wisdom

Leftovers are a gift from your past self. Refrigerate for up to 4 days, freeze for 3 months. Pro tip: It often tastes even better the next day.

Cooking isn't just about feeding yourself – it's about creating moments, telling stories, and showing love through food. This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is more than a recipe. It's a warm hug on a plate.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes! Just thaw and drain the frozen spinach completely before adding to the casserole.
→ How can I make this lighter?
Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and use less cheese to reduce calories.
→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.
→ What can I serve with this casserole?
It's great with a side of rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
→ How long will leftovers keep?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Comforting Chicken Spinach Bake

Hearty casserole with tender chicken, wilted spinach, and a luxuriously creamy cheese sauce. Comfort food at its finest!

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
35 Minutes
Total Time
50 Minutes
By: Barbara

Category: Dinner Delights

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 6 Servings (6 servings)

Dietary: Gluten-Free

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
02 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped

→ Creamy Sauce

03 1 cup heavy cream
04 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
05 ½ cup chicken broth

→ Cheese

06 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
07 ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

→ Seasonings

08 ½ teaspoon garlic powder
09 ½ teaspoon onion powder
10 ½ teaspoon paprika
11 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
12 ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
13 ½ teaspoon black pepper

→ Optional Add-Ins

14 1 tablespoon olive oil
15 ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
16 ½ cup cooked bacon bits (optional, for extra flavor)

Instructions

Step 01

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.

Step 02

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and sauté for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat.

Step 03

In a large bowl, combine heavy cream, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended.

Step 04

In the greased baking dish, layer the cooked chicken evenly. Add the sautéed spinach on top. Pour the creamy sauce over the mixture, ensuring everything is evenly coated.

Step 05

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the casserole. If using bacon bits, sprinkle them on top for extra flavor.

Step 06

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 07

For a golden, crispy cheese layer, broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes. Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Notes

  1. Prep Time: 15 minutes
  2. Cook Time: 35 minutes
  3. Can be made with rotisserie chicken for extra convenience

Tools You'll Need

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Large skillet
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains dairy
  • Contains chicken

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 375
  • Total Fat: 22 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 10 g
  • Protein: 30 g