Description
This Irresistible Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a comforting, cheesy baked dish that combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a luscious blend of cheeses bound together with creamy mayonnaise and sour cream. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner, this casserole delivers rich flavors and a delightful texture that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Scale
Dressing and Cheese Mixture
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise (preferably Hellmann’s for best texture)
- 3/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp garlic salt
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
Main Ingredients
- 1.25 lb chicken, cut into 1-inch bite-sized cubes
- 8 oz fresh spinach
- 8 oz Monterey Jack cheese (Tillamook recommended for better melt)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it is ready for baking the casserole.
- Prepare Chicken: Cut the chicken into 1-inch bite-sized cubes. Set aside.
- Mix Dressing: In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, freshly grated parmesan cheese, pepper, garlic salt, and onion powder. Stir until smooth and well blended.
- Add Chicken and Spinach: Incorporate the bite-sized chicken pieces and the fresh spinach into the creamy dressing mixture, folding gently to coat everything evenly.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through, the spinach is wilted, and the cheese on top is melted and bubbly with a golden tint.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set slightly for easier portioning.
Notes
- For a lower-fat version, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt and use reduced-fat cheese.
- If fresh spinach is unavailable, frozen spinach can be used; be sure to thaw and drain excess water before mixing.
- Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick of heat.
- Make sure to shred the Monterey Jack cheese for better melting and even coverage.
- This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
