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+ servings
Overhead shot of the full casserole garnished with fresh herbs.

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole combines tender chicken, spinach, cream cheese, and melted mozzarella for a rich and satisfying baked dish.
4 Servings

Ingredients

  • 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 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
 

Prepare the oven and baking dish.

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray. Set aside.

Prepare the chicken breasts.

  1. Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create four thinner cutlets. Pound the thicker portions gently with a rolling pin to achieve even thickness throughout.

Marinate the chicken.

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cutlets, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for 15 to 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.

Cook the spinach.

  1. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the fresh spinach and sauté, stirring frequently, until wilted, approximately 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Prepare the creamy filling.

  1. In a separate medium-sized bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Incorporate the cooked spinach, 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese (if using), mixing until well combined and creamy.

Assemble the casserole.

  1. Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and allow any excess marinade to drip off. If desired, sear the chicken in a skillet for 1 to 2 minutes per side for added flavor and color. Arrange the chicken in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.

Add the creamy spinach mixture.

  1. Spread the spinach and cream cheese mixture evenly over the arranged chicken cutlets. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.

Bake the casserole.

  1. Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese has melted and developed a light golden color. Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

To prepare this recipe as gluten free, ensure all ingredients are certified gluten free, particularly the seasoning blends, cream cheese, and cheeses. Serve with gluten-free side options, such as vegetables or gluten-free bread, for a complete meal.
Bitty