Name: Spinach Chicken Casserole with Cream Cheese and Mozzarella Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut horizontally; 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1/2 teaspoon salt, divided; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional); 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 2 cups spinach, rinsed; 4 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 78 reviews

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that combines rich creaminess and vibrant greens with tender chicken, you’ll absolutely love this Spinach Chicken Casserole with Cream Cheese and Mozzarella Recipe. It’s a deliciously satisfying meal that brings together juicy chicken breasts, luscious cream cheese, fresh spinach, and gooey mozzarella in a way that feels homemade yet special. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat, this casserole offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will delight your family and friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white baking dish holds four raw chicken fillets, each seasoned with a mix of black pepper, dried herbs, and red chili flakes, giving them a speckled and slightly oily look. The fillets are arranged side by side, with the largest pieces towards the left and smaller ones to the right, all sitting flat on the base of the dish. The surface underneath is a white marbled texture, adding a clean and fresh feel to the image. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this casserole lies in using a handful of simple but essential ingredients, each bringing their own unique touch. From creamy to fresh to savory, these components create a dish that’s both exciting and comforting.

2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut horizontally: This gives you the perfect thickness for even cooking and layering.
8 oz cream cheese, softened: Adds a rich and creamy texture that beautifully coats the chicken and spinach.
2 cup spinach, rinsed: Fresh spinach brings a vibrant green color and a boost of nutrients.
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided: Used for marinating and sautéing, it enhances flavor and prevents sticking.
4 oz Mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts to a gooey, golden topping that pulls everything together.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant, savory punch to the marinade.
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional: Gives a subtle heat kick for those who love a little spice.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
1/2 teaspoon pepper: Adds a mild sharpness that complements the garlic and spinach.
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning, optional: Lends a hint of herbs that amplify the Italian-inspired flavors.

How to Make Spinach Chicken Casserole with Cream Cheese and Mozzarella Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade and Chicken

Start by mixing olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper in a Ziplock bag. This marinade will infuse the chicken breasts with rich, savory flavors. Once the mixture is ready, add the chicken breasts and massage them gently in the bag to ensure they’re well-coated. Set the bag aside to marinate for 10 to 15 minutes while you prepare other ingredients. This simple step enhances the taste dramatically, making the chicken juicy and flavorful.

Step 2: Preheat and Wilt the Spinach

While the chicken marinates, position your oven rack in the center and preheat it to 400ºF (200ºC). Then, use a skillet with one tablespoon of olive oil to quickly wilt the spinach. Just a minute or two is enough to soften the greens without losing their vibrant color. Set the spinach aside; this will help prevent excess moisture from sogging the casserole later.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Drain the chicken breasts from the marinade and arrange them evenly in your baking dish. Spread the softened cream cheese generously over each breast—this layer adds a luscious texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender meat. Next, pile the sautéed spinach on top of the cream cheese, followed by a sprinkling of shredded mozzarella cheese. This assembly creates layers of creamy, cheesy deliciousness that will melt together as it bakes.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Pop the casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 30 minutes. The magic number to hit is an internal temperature of 165˚F (75ºC) for the chicken—always use a meat thermometer to be safe. Once done, the mozzarella will be bubbly and golden, and the filling will be irresistibly creamy. This short cooking time means you won’t be waiting long for a full-flavored, hearty meal.

How to Serve Spinach Chicken Casserole with Cream Cheese and Mozzarella Recipe

The image shows a white baking dish with four raw chicken fillets arranged side by side inside. Each fillet is topped with a layer of creamy white cheese and a generous pile of wilted bright green spinach leaves. The chicken is seasoned with visible pepper and small herb flakes. The dish sits on a white marbled surface, and the creamy cheese contrasts with the pinkish tone of the raw chicken, while the spinach adds fresh green color. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To add a pop of freshness and a touch of brightness, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil over the casserole just before serving. A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also elevate the flavors further, balancing the richness and adding a hint of zest.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs beautifully with light, simple sides that complement its richness. Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans work wonderfully. If you want a low-carb option, serve it with cauliflower rice, which soaks up the creamy goodness of the casserole perfectly without overpowering it.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming presentation, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or small baking dishes. This personal touch makes it feel extra special at the table. Alternatively, scoop it over a bed of spiralized zucchini noodles or quinoa for a fun twist, making the meal feel fresh and inventive without losing its comforting appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can easily store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The casserole actually tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld overnight. Just be sure to cool it completely before sealing to maintain freshness and texture.

Freezing

This Spinach Chicken Casserole with Cream Cheese and Mozzarella Recipe freezes well. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers, and store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge to ensure it reheats evenly and retains that creamy consistency you love.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers by placing the casserole in the oven at 350ºF (175ºC) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through, or microwave individual portions on medium power. Covering the dish with foil in the oven keeps the cheese from drying out, and a sprinkle of fresh mozzarella before reheating can refresh the cheesy topping.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh for the casserole?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and thoroughly drain the frozen spinach before using it, so the casserole doesn’t get watery. Squeezing out excess moisture is key to keeping the texture just right.

Is it possible to substitute cream cheese with another ingredient?

You can try using ricotta or mascarpone cheese as alternatives, which will still lend a creamy texture, but cream cheese offers a uniquely tangy richness that really defines this recipe.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The best way is to use a meat thermometer and look for an internal temperature of 165˚F (75ºC). This ensures the chicken is safe to eat and perfectly juicy without drying out.

Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?

Yes! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes would be fantastic additions. Just sauté them lightly before layering to keep the casserole balanced.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, the Spinach Chicken Casserole with Cream Cheese and Mozzarella Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those avoiding gluten.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about the way spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella, and chicken come together in this casserole. The Spinach Chicken Casserole with Cream Cheese and Mozzarella Recipe is a simple yet impressive dish that welcomes you with warm, homey flavors and satisfying textures. If you’re craving a dish that’s effortless to make but guarantees smiles around the table, this recipe is a must-try. Once you experience the creamy, cheesy goodness balanced with fresh spinach and tender chicken, it might just become one of your absolute favorites too!

Spinach Chicken Casserole with Cream Cheese and Mozzarella Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need