Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese : 6 Irresistible Benefits

Name: Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 4 cutlets); 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; 4 cups fresh spinach; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Jump to Recipe

There’s something magical about a warm, bubbly casserole fresh out of the oven—especially when it features the unbeatable combo of chicken and spinach, all nestled in creamy, cheesy goodness. This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is the answer to your “what’s for dinner?” dilemma, especially when the day’s been long and your energy is running on empty.

With minimal prep, family-friendly flavors, and comforting textures, this recipe has all the makings of a weeknight hero. And let’s be real—when cream cheese is involved, you know it’s going to be good.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

Weeknight Wonder – It’s the answer to your “what can I make that everyone will actually eat?” prayers.
Minimal Effort, Maximum Comfort – Simple steps and your oven doing most of the work? Yes, please.
Flavor-Packed – Savory chicken, garlicky spinach, and creamy cheese all in one bite. Dreamy.
Kid-Approved – Even the picky eaters can’t resist all that melty cheese.
Meal Prep Friendly – Make it ahead, store it, reheat it—repeat. It’s a lifesaver.
Low-Carb Love – No pasta or rice needed. Just wholesome, satisfying ingredients.
Looks Fancy, Cooks Easy – It’s the dish that makes you look like you’ve got it all together—even when you absolutely do not.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Chicken: Two large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cutlets.
Olive Oil: Adds flavor and helps cook the spinach and marinate the chicken.
Garlic: Because everything’s better with garlic.
Italian Seasoning: For that herby, cozy vibe.
Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts down beautifully and sneaks in some greens.
Cream Cheese: The creamy, dreamy base of our filling.
Mozzarella Cheese: For melty, cheesy topping bliss.
Parmesan Cheese (Optional): Because you can never have too much cheese, right?

Scroll down to the recipe card for complete ingredient measurements and cooking instructions.

How to Make Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

1. Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Set it aside like it’s waiting for its big moment.

2. Cut and Tenderize the Chicken

Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to make four thinner cutlets. Give them a gentle pound with a rolling pin or meat mallet until they’re evenly thick.

3. Marinate for Maximum Flavor

Mix 1 tablespoon of olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Add the chicken and toss to coat. Let it marinate in the fridge for 15–30 minutes while you prep the rest.

4. Wilt the Spinach

Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add spinach and stir until it wilts—about 2–3 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.

5. Make the Creamy Filling

In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Stir in the wilted spinach, 1/2 cup mozzarella, and Parmesan (if using). Mix until it’s all happily combined.

6. Assemble Like a Pro

Optional: Sear chicken in a hot skillet for 1–2 minutes per side for extra flavor. Then lay the cutlets in your baking dish. Spread the creamy spinach mixture on top, then sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella.

7. Bake and Smell the Magic

Bake for 20–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temp) and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

8. Rest, Serve, and Savor

Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving. It’s like a flavor reset button—it all comes together beautifully.

Cooking Tips

Short on Time? Use thin-sliced chicken breasts from the store to skip the cutting and pounding.
Don’t Skip the Rest: That 5-minute wait really lets the flavors settle and keeps the cheese from sliding off.
Add a Kick: Want some heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cream cheese mix.

A Little Kitchen Confession

This recipe once saved me on a week when everything that could go wrong, did. I had zero energy, but I still wanted something warm and home-cooked. One casserole later, the house smelled amazing, my kids were happy, and I felt like I had my life together—at least for that evening!

Close-up of a creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese served on a rustic plate — This rich and melty Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is pure comfort in every bite.

FAQs About Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

Can I substitute frozen spinach?

Yes! Just thaw it first and squeeze out all the excess water. Nobody wants watery casserole.

How do I store leftovers?

Pop them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Can I prep this ahead?

Absolutely. Assemble it a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.

Is this low carb?

Sure is! No pasta, rice, or breadcrumbs—just protein, veggies, and lots of cheesy love.

Dinner Doesn’t Get Easier Than This

This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is everything a busy home cook dreams of: comforting, cheesy, hearty, and easy enough for a weeknight. Whether it’s a chill Sunday dinner or a last-minute weeknight win, this recipe delivers big on flavor with minimal fuss.

Give it a try and let your oven do the hard work while you soak up some well-earned downtime. Your future (and hungry) self will thank you!

Craving More Cozy Recipes?

If you loved this dish, you’re in for a treat! Here are some deliciously comforting and easy-to-make favorites to add to your meal plan:

Need a fun handheld option for busy evenings? Try these flavorful Slow Cooker Cowboy Sandwiches.
For another creamy and hearty weeknight option, don’t miss the comforting One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie.
If you’re looking to switch up your side dish game, these savory Slow Cooker Lipton Onion Potatoes are a must.
And for another cheesy chicken dinner, you’ll love the crowd-pleasing Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Alfredo.

These dishes are just as simple and comforting as today’s recipe—because dinnertime should never be stressful!