Chicken and Spinach Casserole

Chicken and spinach casserole is a beloved dish for a reason. It brings together tender chicken and nutrient-packed spinach in a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful base. It’s hearty enough to satisfy the whole family, yet simple enough to prepare without spending hours in the kitchen. Not only does this casserole offer comfort and warmth, but it’s also highly customizable, making it an excellent option for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or even potlucks.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just beginning to explore casseroles, this dish is a wonderful addition to your repertoire. Its ease of preparation and flexibility in ingredients make it both practical and exciting to create. And when the bubbling cheese on top turns golden in the oven, you’ll know you’re in for a treat.

Read on for a detailed recipe, tips, variations, and serving ideas to make your version of chicken and spinach casserole perfect every time.

Recipe: Chicken and Spinach Casserole

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need for a classic chicken and spinach casserole:

For the main ingredients:

2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
4 cups fresh spinach (or 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
1 cup uncooked pasta (penne, elbow, or fusilli work well) or 2 cups cooked rice
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

For the creamy sauce:

3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk (or 1 cup milk + 1 cup chicken broth for more flavor)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Follow these step-by-step directions for a flawless casserole:

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
If you’re using uncooked pasta, cook it according to package instructions until just al dente, drain, and set aside. If you prefer rice, have it prepared and ready for assembly.
Cook and shred your chicken if you haven’t already. Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Toss in the spinach and cook just until wilted (about 2 minutes for fresh spinach). For frozen spinach, ensure it’s thawed and drained thoroughly before adding. Set the cooked veggies aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium-low heat. Whisk in the flour to form a roux, stirring constantly for about 1 minute, until the mixture is golden.
Gradually whisk in the milk (or milk + chicken broth) to create a smooth sauce. Bring this to a gentle simmer, stirring often to prevent lumps.
Add the Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper to the sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sautéed onions, garlic, spinach, cooked pasta (or rice), and half the shredded mozzarella. Stir gently to mix everything evenly.
Pour the creamy sauce over the mixture and toss again until fully coated.
Transfer everything to a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. If you’d like a crunchy topping, add breadcrumbs as the final layer.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving, giving the flavors a moment to meld.

Variations of Chicken and Spinach Casserole

One of the beautiful aspects of this dish is its versatility. You can tweak it to suit your family’s preferences or use what you already have on hand. Here are some popular variations:

Protein Swaps
While chicken is a classic choice, you can use leftover turkey, ground beef, or even shrimp to switch things up. For a vegetarian option, try roasted mushrooms or cubed tofu.
Cheese Upgrades
Parmesan and mozzarella are crowd-pleasing choices, but why not get creative? Fontina, Gruyere, sharp cheddar, or even goat cheese can elevate this dish with new flavors.
Vegetable Boosters
Add extra vegetables like mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or broccoli florets for more color and nutrients. These can be roasted or sautéed before incorporating them into the casserole.
Grain Alternatives
Instead of pasta or rice, try quinoa, farro, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. These substitutions ensure the dish stays hearty and satisfying.
Creamy Base Additions
If you love extra richness, stir in a few spoons of cream cheese or sour cream to the sauce. You can also substitute the milk with half-and-half for an even creamier consistency.
Spice Adjustments
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a slight kick, or incorporate a smoky element with a dash of smoked paprika.

These modifications provide endless possibilities, allowing you to tailor the dish to your taste and nutritional goals.

Serving Ideas and Pairings

Chicken and spinach casserole is pretty much a complete meal on its own, but you can elevate your dining experience with some thoughtful pairings. Here are a few ideas:

Fresh Salads
Serve a crisp green salad on the side, such as Caesar salad or arugula tossed with lemon and olive oil. The fresh crunch balances the casserole’s creamy richness.
Garlic Bread
A warm loaf of garlic bread or a buttery roll is perfect for soaking up every bit of the decadent sauce.
Soup Starter
Start your meal with a light soup, such as tomato basil or vegetable minestrone, to warm things up.
Wine Pairing
A glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy flavors without overpowering the dish. For red wine lovers, a light Pinot Noir works well.
Beverages for Everyone
For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a slice of cucumber or lemon keeps things fresh, while iced tea or lemonade adds a comforting touch.

Presentation Tip

Garnish your casserole with freshly chopped parsley, a drizzle of olive oil, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes for added visual appeal. These small touches make the dish feel restaurant-quality, even at home.

Why You Should Try This Dish

Chicken and spinach casserole isn’t just another dinner idea—it’s a comforting, go-to meal that’s as flexible as it is delicious. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd, meal-prepping for a busy week, or even impressing guests at your next gathering. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and nutritious spinach, this dish delivers both flavor and nourishment in every bite.

Plus, the casserole’s adaptability allows you to get creative, whether you’re swapping ingredients or crafting your topping of choice. It’s forgiving, quick to make, and undeniably satisfying. If you’re after a dish that will warm your home and bring people together, chicken and spinach casserole is sure to hit the spot.

Now, grab your apron, and give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed! Happy cooking!