Dinner

Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese Recipe

ByMarina Montclair November 25, 2025November 25, 2025

Introduction

This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is a creamy, comforting dish perfect for weeknight dinners. Tender chicken breasts combined with flavorful spinach and melted cheese make a satisfying and easy-to-make meal that the whole family will love.

The image shows a close-up of a slice of a creamy spinach and cheese lasagna. The top layer is golden brown melted cheese with small browned spots, covering a layer of cooked spinach mixed smoothly with ricotta cheese. Beneath that, several thick layers of white cheese and slightly visible pasta sheets create a rich, creamy texture with soft edges. The dish is served on a white plate placed on a white marbled surface. The photo highlights the gooey, melted cheese and the green flecks of spinach in the creamy filling. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups fresh spinach
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Cut each chicken breast in half horizontally to create four thin cutlets. Pound the thicker ends to ensure even thickness.
Step 3: In a bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Toss the chicken in the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes.
Step 4: In a skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Set aside.
Step 5: Beat the softened cream cheese in a bowl, then stir in the cooked spinach and 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese. Add Parmesan cheese if using.
Step 6: Optionally, sear the marinated chicken in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes per side for added flavor.
Step 7: Arrange the chicken evenly in the prepared baking dish, spread the cream cheese and spinach mixture over the top, and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
Step 8: Bake for 20-30 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
Step 9: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade.
Substitute kale or Swiss chard for spinach if desired.
Use low-fat cream cheese to reduce calories without sacrificing creaminess.
Adding a layer of cooked mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes can enhance the casserole’s taste.

Storage

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 microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes. Avoid freezing, as the cream cheese mixture may change texture when thawed.