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Creamy Spinach Chicken Casserole

Creamy Spinach Chicken Casserole
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Creamy Spinach Chicken Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish combining tender seared chicken breasts, vibrant fresh spinach, and a rich, velvety cream cheese and sour cream sauce topped with melted cheese. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, this casserole balances creamy indulgence with nutritious greens and protein, and is versatile enough to adapt to various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Italian herbs or preferred seasoning blend, to taste

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 6 cups fresh spinach (or 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and excess moisture squeezed out)

Dairy

  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (mozzarella and/or cheddar)

Seasonings

  • Pinch of nutmeg
  • Additional salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional

  • Cooked pasta or rice, to serve or mix in (optional)
  • Additional shredded cheese for topping

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side, but do not cook through completely. Remove from heat and set aside to retain juices.
  2. Cook the Spinach and Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the finely chopped garlic and onions. Sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, stirring to combine thoroughly.
  3. Mix the Creamy Sauce: In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, and shredded cheese. Warm gently (in microwave or on low heat in a pan) until the mixture is smooth and melted. Season with a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste.
  4. Assemble the Casserole: In a greased baking dish, layer the seared chicken breasts evenly. Spoon the spinach and onion mixture over the chicken. Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the top, spreading evenly. Sprinkle extra shredded cheese on top to create a golden crust.
  5. Bake Until Bubbly: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the top cheese is melted and lightly browned.

Notes

  • Don’t overcook the chicken during searing; it will finish cooking in the oven to remain juicy and tender.
  • Drain and squeeze excess moisture from spinach thoroughly to avoid a watery casserole.
  • Use fresh ingredients, particularly fresh spinach and quality cheeses, for the best flavor.
  • Mix mozzarella and cheddar cheeses for a perfect balance of creaminess and sharpness.
  • Let the casserole rest for at least 5 minutes after baking to set and for easier slicing.

Nutrition

Keywords: Creamy Spinach Chicken Casserole, chicken casserole, spinach casserole, creamy chicken bake, comfort food, gluten free casserole

Find it online: https://mealsbymary.com/creamy-spinach-chicken-casserole/