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Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese Recipe

Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese Recipe
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★★★★★

4.8 from 5 reviews

This creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole combines tender chicken breasts with a flavorful spinach and cream cheese filling, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. A comforting and easy-to-make dish perfect for a hearty dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Spinach and Cheese Mixture

  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, optional

Instructions

  1. Preheat and prepare baking dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Set aside.
  2. Prepare chicken cutlets: Cut each chicken breast horizontally to create four thin cutlets. Use a rolling pin to pound the thicker parts so that all pieces are of even thickness, ensuring even cooking.
  3. Marinate chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cutlets and toss well to coat. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes to infuse flavors.
  4. Cook spinach: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the fresh spinach and cook, stirring frequently, until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
  5. Mix cheese filling: In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Stir in the wilted spinach, 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese if using. Mix until combined well.
  6. Sear chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade letting excess drip off. Optionally, sear the chicken cutlets in the skillet for 1-2 minutes per side to lock in flavor.
  7. Assemble casserole: Arrange the chicken cutlets in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Spread the spinach and cream cheese mixture evenly over the chicken. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
  8. Bake and serve: Bake the casserole for 20-30 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is melted and lightly browned. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy chicken and spinach casserole!

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use full-fat cream cheese.
  • Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a nice savory depth to the dish.
  • You can substitute fresh spinach with frozen spinach, just be sure to thaw and drain well before mixing.
  • Feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken casserole, spinach casserole, cream cheese chicken, baked chicken recipe, easy dinner, low fat chicken

Find it online: https://trendytasterecipes.com/chicken-and-spinach-casserole-with-cream-cheese-recipe/