Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese
A delicious and satisfying casserole combining tender chicken breasts with fresh spinach and creamy cheese, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 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
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cut each chicken breast in half horizontally to create four thin cutlets. Pound the thicker ends to ensure even thickness.
- In a bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Toss the chicken in the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes.
- In a skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Set aside.
- Beat softened cream cheese in a bowl, then stir in spinach and 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (and Parmesan if using).
Cooking
- Optionally, sear the marinated chicken in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes per side for added flavor.
- Arrange the chicken in the baking dish, spread the cream cheese and spinach mixture over it, and top with remaining mozzarella.
- Bake for 20-30 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate longer if you have the time. You can add other vegetables, like mushrooms or bell peppers, for added nutrition and taste. Using fresh spices can enhance the flavor of the casserole even more. Consider using a mix of cheeses for a more complex flavor.