Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese
A delightful casserole combining tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and creamy flavors, perfect for family dinners.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Ingredients
- 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
- 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). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray and set aside.
- Cut the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create four cutlets. Pound the thicker ends with a rolling pin to make them even in thickness.
- Whisk together 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken to the bowl, toss to coat, cover, and chill for 15-30 minutes.
- Heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the spinach and cook, stirring frequently, until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Stir in the wilted spinach and 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix until combined.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Sear the chicken in the skillet for 1-2 minutes per side until lightly browned. Arrange the chicken in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
- Spread the spinach and cream cheese mixture evenly over the chicken. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake for 20-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and lightly browned. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
Use fresh spinach for the best flavor. Make sure your cream cheese is softened at room temperature.