Introduction
Welcome to a cozy dish that’s bound to become a family favorite! This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is not only incredibly easy to whip up but also bursting with flavor and creamy goodness. Imagine tender chicken mingling with fresh spinach, all enveloped in a rich, cheesy sauce and topped with a delightful golden breadcrumb crust. Perfect as a hearty dinner or a comforting lunch, this casserole is sure to evoke warm memories around the dining table.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), inviting that warm air into your kitchen.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken and fresh chopped spinach, creating a beautiful medley of colors.
- Add the softened cream cheese, tangy sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s a creamy, luscious blend.
- Stir in half of the mozzarella and half of the cheddar cheese, giving the mixture a cheesy, comforting texture.
- Spread the chicken and cheese mixture evenly into a greased casserole dish, smoothing it out with a spatula.
- In a separate bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil until they are evenly coated, adding a delightful crunch to the topping.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture generously over the top of your casserole.
- Top it all off with the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese, ensuring a gooey, cheesy experience with every bite.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the top turns a beautiful golden brown.
- Let your casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This will make it easier to serve and let those flavors settle beautifully!
Notes or Tips
For extra flavor, consider adding some chopped onions or garlic to the chicken mixture. If you’re looking to make this dish a bit more nutritious, you can throw in some other veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers into the mix. Leftovers (if there are any!) store well in the fridge for a couple of days and make for an easy reheatable lunch or dinner!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe makes use of a simple mixing technique that allows the ingredients to come together easily, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Baking not only helps to meld the cheese and casserole together, but it also creates a delightful, crunchy topping that is simply irresistible. Make sure your cream cheese is softened beforehand for a smooth and easy mix.
FAQ
Can I use different vegetables in this casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or carrots for a different twist.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if you’re baking it cold from the fridge.
What can I serve with this casserole?
A simple side salad or some garlic bread is a great complement to this creamy and rich casserole.
Conclusion
This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that combines heartiness with a touch of elegance. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings where you’ll be looking for sustenance wrapped in warmth and flavor. So gather your loved ones, serve up a generous helping, and let the comforting aroma fill your home. Enjoy every cheesy, delicious bite!