Dinner

Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese Recipe

BySarah Summers December 2, 2025December 2, 2025

Introduction

This creamy and indulgent Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for any night of the week. Tender, seasoned chicken combines with rich cream cheese and sautéed spinach to create a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare.

This is a close-up image of a creamy spinach and cheese casserole slice on a white plate. The top layer is golden and bubbly melted cheese with some browned spots. Below it, there is a thick creamy white cheese mixture with visible green spinach pieces mixed evenly throughout. The texture of the casserole looks soft and rich, and the layers are blended smoothly without clear separation. The background surface is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

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

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Cut each chicken breast in half horizontally to create four thin cutlets. Pound the thicker ends to ensure even thickness.
Step 3: In a bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Toss the chicken in the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes.
Step 4: In a skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Set aside.
Step 5: Beat the softened cream cheese in a bowl, then stir in the cooked spinach and 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (add Parmesan if using).
Step 6: Optionally, sear the marinated chicken in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes per side to add extra flavor.
Step 7: Arrange the chicken cutlets in the baking dish. Spread the cream cheese and spinach mixture evenly over the chicken, then top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
Step 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.
Step 9: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the cream cheese mixture.
Substitute fresh spinach with frozen spinach (thawed and drained) if fresh is unavailable.
Use gouda or provolone cheese instead of mozzarella for a different cheesy twist.
Sear the chicken beforehand for a nice golden crust and enhanced taste.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain creaminess and texture. This casserole can also be frozen before baking; thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.

How to Serve

A close-up of a baked lasagna piece showing three main layers: the top layer is melted golden-brown cheese with some parts slightly crispy, beneath it is a creamy white sauce mixed with green spinach pieces, and the bottom layer appears to be smooth white ricotta cheese with some small herbs scattered throughout. The lasagna edges are slightly browned and the texture looks soft and creamy. The dish is placed on a white plate on a white marbled surface, and a woman's hand is holding a fork nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and will add extra juiciness. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they reach 165°F (75°C) internal temperature.

Is it necessary to sear the chicken before baking?

No, searing is optional but recommended to add a deeper flavor and appealing color. You can skip this step to save time and bake the marinated chicken directly.