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Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese


  • Author: emma
  • Total Time: 60 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Paleo

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

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cut each chicken breast in half horizontally to create four thin cutlets. Pound the thicker ends to ensure even thickness.
  3. 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.
  4. In a skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Set aside.
  5. 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).
  6. Optionally, sear the marinated chicken in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes per side to enhance flavor.
  7. Arrange the chicken in the baking dish, spread the cream cheese and spinach mixture over it, and top with the remaining mozzarella.
  8. 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.
  9. 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