Chicken and Spinach Casserole: Comfort Food at Its Best

By Paula

This Chicken and Spinach Casserole is creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor. The combination of tender shredded chicken, hearty spinach, and a creamy, cheesy sauce makes it an irresistible comfort food that’s perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings. Plus, it comes together quickly and easily, making it a go-to recipe for busy nights.

Quick Benefits

This dish is ready in under an hour, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. The combination of chicken, rice, and spinach provides a well-rounded meal with protein, carbohydrates, and fiber. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken, giving it a second life as a comforting casserole.

Essential Ingredients

Cooking spray
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 ½ cups chopped yellow onion
6 medium cloves garlic, thinly sliced
2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
1 ¾ teaspoons kosher salt
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2½ cups whole milk
4 ounces chive and onion cream cheese
4 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
3 cups cooked long-grain white rice
2 (10-ounce) packages frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
8 ounces part-skim mozzarella cheese, shredded
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Preparation Steps

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and arrange the rack in the upper third position. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
In a large nonstick skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, and ¾ teaspoon of salt. Cook, stirring frequently, until onions are softened and translucent (about 4 minutes).
Stir in flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until slightly thickened (about 3 minutes).
Add cream cheese and remaining salt, and cook, stirring until fully combined.
Remove from heat and stir in shredded chicken, cooked rice, spinach, lemon juice, and lemon zest until evenly mixed.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Turn on the broiler and broil for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and slightly browned.

Health Benefits

Chicken and Spinach Casserole is packed with protein from the chicken and cheese, while the spinach adds a good dose of vitamins and minerals, including iron and vitamin C. The addition of whole milk and cream cheese contributes to a creamy texture without being overly rich.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this casserole hot, straight out of the oven, with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables on the side. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are also great accompaniments.

Creative Variations

Low-Carb Version: Replace the rice with cauliflower rice to reduce carbs.
Mexican Twist: Add black beans, corn, and a dash of cumin, and use pepper jack cheese instead.
Mushroom Spinach: Add sautéed mushrooms for a more earthy flavor.
Herb Swap: Use fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a fragrant touch.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for quicker reheating. This casserole also freezes well for up to 2 months.

Pro Tips

Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add flavor.
Make sure to squeeze excess moisture from the spinach to avoid a watery casserole.
Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen? Yes, just sauté fresh spinach first to reduce moisture.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use a different cheese? Cheddar or provolone are great substitutes if mozzarella isn’t your preference.