This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. With tender rotisserie chicken, creamy chive and onion cheese, and a golden cheese topping, this dish delivers indulgent flavor while sneaking in nutritious spinach.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Casserole
- Cooking spray
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1½ cups yellow onion, finely chopped
- 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper
- 1¾ tsp kosher salt, divided
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2½ cups whole milk
- 4 oz chive and onion cream cheese
- 4 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 3 cups long-grain white rice, cooked
- 2 (10 oz each) packages frozen chopped spinach, thawed, and water squeezed out
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
For the Topping
- 8 oz part-skim mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Directions

Prepare Ingredients:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and adjust the rack to the upper third position. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Sauté Aromatics:
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, and ¾ tsp kosher salt. Cook, stirring, until onions are soft and translucent (about 4 minutes).
Make the Sauce:
Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in milk, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens slightly (about 3 minutes).
Combine Ingredients:
Stir in cream cheese and the remaining 1 tsp kosher salt, ensuring the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Remove from heat. Add shredded chicken, cooked rice, spinach, lemon juice, and lemon zest, mixing until evenly combined.
Assemble the Casserole:
Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Bake and Broil:
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted. Turn the oven to broil and broil for 2–3 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
Serve:
Remove from the oven and let sit for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrients (Per Serving)

Calories: ~400 kcal
Protein: ~25 g
Fat: ~18 g
Carbohydrates: ~35 g
Sodium: ~800 mg

This creamy and flavorful casserole is sure to become a family favorite! Adjust it to your preferences with substitutions like kale for spinach or almond milk for dairy. Enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A Harmony of Flavors

This casserole is a symphony of taste and texture. The creamy, cheesy sauce is rich and flavorful, infused with the subtle tang of chive and onion cream cheese and a hint of citrus from fresh lemon zest. Combined with the tender chicken, hearty rice, and nutrient-rich spinach, each bite offers layers of flavor that are both indulgent and well-balanced.

Family-Friendly Appeal

Kids and adults alike will love this dish. The melty mozzarella and Parmesan topping create an irresistible golden crust that’s sure to tempt even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s a clever way to sneak in spinach—an excellent source of vitamins and minerals—without anyone batting an eye.

Versatile and Adaptable

One of the best things about this casserole is its versatility. Whether you want to swap spinach for kale, use brown rice instead of white, or experiment with dairy-free alternatives, this recipe is easily adaptable to suit dietary preferences and ingredient availability.

Make-Ahead Convenience

This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble the casserole ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and pop it in the oven when ready to eat. It also reheats beautifully, making it an excellent option for leftovers throughout the week.

The Nutritional Benefits of Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

Packed with Protein

Rotisserie chicken provides a lean and flavorful source of protein, making this casserole satisfying and filling. Protein is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall energy levels.

Nutrient-Rich Spinach

Spinach is a powerhouse of nutrients, loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium. Including spinach in the casserole boosts its nutritional profile without compromising on taste.

Wholesome Carbohydrates

Long-grain white rice serves as the base of this casserole, offering a comforting source of carbohydrates. For those looking for more fiber, substituting brown rice or quinoa is a great option.

Controlled Indulgence

While this casserole has a creamy and cheesy profile, it maintains a reasonable calorie count at approximately 400 calories per serving. This balance makes it indulgent yet suitable for those watching their caloric intake.

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Casserole

Choose High-Quality Ingredients

Since this recipe relies on simple ingredients, their quality makes all the difference. Opt for fresh spinach, flavorful rotisserie chicken, and high-quality cheeses for the best results.

Avoid Overcooking

To keep the casserole moist and creamy, be careful not to overbake it. The dish only needs 15 minutes in the oven, with an additional 2–3 minutes under the broiler to achieve a golden crust.

Properly Squeeze the Spinach

When using frozen spinach, it’s crucial to squeeze out as much water as possible before adding it to the casserole. Excess moisture can make the dish watery and affect its creamy texture.

Add a Crunchy Topping

For an extra layer of texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the cheese topping before baking. A drizzle of olive oil or melted butter on the crumbs ensures they crisp up beautifully.

Customize to Your Taste

This recipe is highly adaptable. Feel free to add mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or even cooked bacon for additional flavor. Experimenting with spices like smoked paprika or nutmeg can also enhance the dish’s complexity.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it can be paired with a variety of sides to round out your dinner table. Here are some serving suggestions:

A Crisp Green Salad: Pair the rich casserole with a light salad of mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Garlic Bread: A side of warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts complement the dish and add even more nutrients to the meal.
Soup Starter: A bowl of light vegetable soup or chicken broth makes a great starter before diving into this hearty casserole.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Weeknight Hero

With its quick preparation and simple assembly, this casserole is a lifesaver on busy weeknights. Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken and frozen spinach saves time without sacrificing flavor.

Potluck Favorite

This dish is an excellent choice for potlucks and gatherings. Its large serving size and easy transportability make it a hit at any event.

Meal Prep Wonder

The casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer. It reheats beautifully, maintaining its creamy texture and delicious flavor.

Family Dinner Staple

For cozy family dinners, this dish brings everyone to the table. Its warm, creamy texture and satisfying flavors make it an instant favorite.

Conclusion: A Casserole That Delivers Comfort and Flavor

The Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a celebration of comfort food done right. With its combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and nutritious spinach, this dish offers a balance of indulgence and healthiness that few meals achieve. Its versatility allows you to adapt it to your preferences, while its quick preparation makes it a practical choice for busy schedules.

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