Description
A comforting Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese that melds tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and creamy cheese for a delightful family meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 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
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cut each chicken breast in half horizontally to create four thin cutlets. Pound the thicker ends to ensure even thickness.
- In a bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Toss the chicken cutlets in the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes.
- In a skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Set aside.
- Beat the softened cream cheese in a bowl, then stir in the wilted spinach and 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese (add Parmesan cheese if desired).
- Optionally, sear the marinated chicken in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes per side to enhance flavor.
- Arrange the chicken in the baking dish, spread the cream cheese and spinach mixture over it, 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
Customize the cheese blend or add crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: casserole, chicken, spinach, comfort food, dinner
