Description
This Spinach Chicken Casserole with Cream Cheese and Mozzarella is a flavorful and comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breasts are marinated with garlic and spices, topped with creamy spinach and melted mozzarella cheese, then baked to perfection. It’s an easy, hearty meal that pairs wonderfully with cauliflower rice or baked vegetables.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 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)
Casserole Toppings
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups spinach, rinsed
- 4 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a Ziplock bag, combine 1 tablespoon olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Seal the bag and shake everything to mix thoroughly. Add the chicken breasts, reseal, and massage the bag to coat the chicken evenly with the marinade. Set aside on the counter for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to develop.
- Preheat the Oven: Position a rack in the center of your oven and preheat it to 400ºF (200ºC) while the chicken marinates.
- Wilt the Spinach: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the rinsed spinach and cook, stirring gently, just until wilted, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Assemble the Casserole: Drain excess marinade from the chicken breasts and arrange them in a baking dish in a single layer. Spread the softened cream cheese evenly over the chicken breasts. Layer the wilted spinach on top of the cream cheese. Finally, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the spinach layer.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-30 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF (75ºC) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve warm with a side of cauliflower rice or baked vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy!
Notes
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
- Spinach can be substituted with kale or Swiss chard for a different leafy green flavor.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Using fresh mozzarella cheese will give a creamier texture compared to shredded pre-packaged mozzarella.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
