Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole
A delightful and hearty casserole featuring creamy cheese, tender chicken, and vibrant vegetables, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 1 lb short pasta (rigatoni, ziti, or penne) uncooked
- 2 c cubed chicken already cooked
Cheeses and Creams
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 3/4 c sour cream full fat, or Greek yogurt
- 3/4 c heavy cream
- 1/2 c whole milk
- 1 1/2 c shredded mozzarella divided
- 1/2 c parmesan grated
Vegetables and Seasonings
- 10 oz frozen spinach thawed and drained of water
- 1 can artichokes chopped (14 oz.)
- 3-4 garlic cloves
- 1/2 tsp red pepper
- 1/2 tsp sea salt more or less as desired
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1/2 small onion diced
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until almost al dente (about 1 minute less than directed for al dente).
- While pasta is cooking, combine the sour cream and softened cream cheese in a medium mixing bowl and mix until smooth and creamy.
- Add in the heavy cream and mix until well combined. Then, add the milk and mix again.
- Next, add the chicken, spinach, artichokes, 1 cup mozzarella cheese, parmesan, onion, garlic, and seasonings. Stir to combine well.
Assembly and Baking
- When the pasta is cooked, drain it and then add it to a sprayed 9x13 inch pan.
- Pour the spinach and artichoke mixture over the pasta and stir to combine and fully coat the pasta.
- Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and bake for about 25 minutes, checking at 20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and the mixture is bubbling.
- You can broil the last 2 minutes if desired for browned, crispy cheese.
- Let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, use the microwave or oven until warmed through. Make sure to drain the spinach well to avoid excess water in your casserole. Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy option. Feel free to adjust the garlic and seasoning according to your taste. Adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil can enhance the flavor.