Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

Looking for a cozy, crowd-pleasing dinner that’s both delicious and simple to make? This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is the ultimate choice! Packed with tender rotisserie chicken, nutrient-rich spinach, and creamy, cheesy goodness, this casserole is perfect for family dinners or special gatherings. With flavors of Italian herbs, a hint of lemon, and a golden cheesy top, it’s a satisfying dish that pairs well with almost any side. Read on for step-by-step instructions to create this heartwarming recipe.

Ingredients

• Cooking Spray
• 3 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
• 1 ½ cups Yellow Onion (finely chopped)
• 6 cloves Garlic (thinly sliced)
• 2 teaspoons Dried Italian Seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper
• 1 ¾ teaspoons Kosher Salt (divided)
• 3 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour
• 2 ½ cups Whole Milk
• 4 ounces Chive and Onion Cream Cheese
• 4 cups Rotisserie Chicken (shredded)
• 3 cups Long-Grain White Rice (cooked)
• 2 packages (10 ounces each) Frozen Chopped Spinach (thawed, excess water squeezed out)
• 2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice
• 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest
• 8 ounces Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese (shredded)
• ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese (grated)

Instructions

Preparation of Ingredients

Before starting, assemble all the ingredients. This ensures everything is ready to go, making the cooking process smoother.

Oven Preheating and Dish Preparation

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Position the oven rack in the upper third section. Coat a 9×13-inch baking dish evenly with cooking spray for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.

Sautéing the Base

1. In a large nonstick skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the finely chopped onions, sliced garlic, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, and ¾ teaspoon of kosher salt.
3. Stir frequently for about 4 minutes, until the onions are soft and translucent.

Creating the Roux

1. Stir in the flour and cook for about a minute, stirring constantly to form a smooth paste.
2. Slowly add the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the mixture slightly thickens, which should take about 3 minutes.

Combining the Main Ingredients

1. Add the chive and onion cream cheese along with the remaining teaspoon of salt. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
2. Remove the skillet from heat, and add the shredded rotisserie chicken, cooked rice, thawed and drained spinach, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.

Baking

1. Transfer the prepared mixture into the greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
2. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.
3. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted.

Broiling for a Golden Finish

1. After baking, switch the oven to the broil setting.
2. Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese turns golden brown and bubbly. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with Sides: This creamy casserole goes wonderfully with a simple green salad, crusty garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. You can also pair it with steamed broccoli or asparagus for an extra boost of greens.
• Garnish: For a touch of freshness, garnish with chopped parsley, basil, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for added flavor.
• Meal Ideas: Serve as a main dish for dinner, or use as a hearty side for a larger feast. It’s perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or cozy nights at home.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This casserole will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the casserole to enjoy later. Place it in a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze before baking if you’re making it ahead.
• Reheating:
  • From the Refrigerator: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
  • From Frozen: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in the oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, adding an extra 10 minutes if needed for even heating.

These tips make it easy to enjoy this delicious Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole as a convenient meal any time you need it!

Variations

This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole recipe is flexible and can be customized to suit your tastes and dietary needs. Here are some tasty variations to try:

1. Mushroom Lovers’ Casserole

• Add Mushrooms: Sauté 1 to 2 cups of sliced mushrooms with the onions and garlic for extra depth and a savory, earthy flavor.
• Use Mushroom Cream Sauce: Replace half of the milk with a can of cream of mushroom soup for a richer, mushroom-forward casserole.

2. Low-Carb Option

• Swap Rice for Cauliflower Rice: Substitute cooked cauliflower rice for regular rice to reduce the carbs while keeping the casserole hearty.
• Keto-Friendly Cream: Use heavy cream or half-and-half in place of the milk for a higher-fat, keto-friendly version.

3. Extra Veggie Boost

• Add Bell Peppers and Zucchini: Incorporate 1 cup of diced bell peppers and/or zucchini along with the onions. This not only adds flavor but also a variety of colors.
• Add Kale or Broccoli: Replace or combine the spinach with chopped fresh kale or steamed broccoli for a different green vegetable base.

4. Gluten-Free Version

• Swap the Flour: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make the sauce, or substitute with cornstarch (use 1.5 tablespoons instead of 3 tablespoons of flour).
• Ensure Gluten-Free Ingredients: Double-check that all ingredients, especially the rotisserie chicken and seasonings, are gluten-free.

5. Cheesy Upgrade

• Use Cheddar or Gruyère: For a sharper flavor, replace the mozzarella with shredded cheddar or Gruyère. These cheeses add a slightly stronger taste and a meltier texture.
• Top with Panko: Sprinkle gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before baking for a crispy, cheesy crust.

6. Mediterranean Twist

• Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Stir in ½ cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained) for a tangy, Mediterranean vibe.
• Olives and Feta: Swap the mozzarella for crumbled feta and add sliced black olives for a Greek-inspired casserole.

7. Spicy Kick

• Add Jalapeños or Red Pepper Flakes: For heat lovers, mix in sliced jalapeños or increase the crushed red pepper for a spicy kick.
• Use Pepper Jack Cheese: Replace mozzarella with pepper jack cheese for an extra-spicy, creamy casserole.

8. Dairy-Free Casserole

• Dairy-Free Cheese: Substitute the cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan with your favorite dairy-free cheese alternatives.
• Use Almond Milk: Replace whole milk with unsweetened almond milk or another plant-based milk for a creamy, dairy-free version.

These variations allow you to tailor this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole to suit a range of preferences, making it a versatile dish for any meal or occasion!

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen spinach?

Yes, you can use fresh spinach. Substitute with about 10–12 cups of fresh spinach, as it will wilt down significantly. Sauté the fresh spinach with the onions and garlic until it’s cooked down before adding it to the casserole.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole and cover it tightly. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, bake it as directed, adding an extra 5–10 minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.

3. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Assemble it without baking, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed.

4. How do I make this casserole spicier?

To add heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add sliced jalapeños. You can also substitute pepper jack cheese for a spicy, cheesy twist.

5. What can I substitute for rotisserie chicken?

You can use any cooked, shredded chicken, such as baked or poached chicken breasts. Shredded leftover turkey or even shredded pork are also great options.

6. Can I use another type of cheese?

Yes! Mozzarella works well for a mild flavor, but you can also try cheddar, Gruyère, or a blend of cheeses for added flavor. Feta or goat cheese can add a unique twist as well.

7. Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch (use half the amount). Also, double-check that the rotisserie chicken and all seasonings are gluten-free.

8. Can I add pasta instead of rice?

Yes, you can replace the rice with cooked pasta. Penne, rotini, or macaroni work well in this casserole. Use about 3 cups of cooked pasta in place of the rice.

9. How can I make this casserole lighter?

To make it lighter, use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cream cheese. You can also replace the rotisserie chicken with diced, skinless chicken breast for a leaner protein option.

10. Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?

Definitely! This casserole is versatile, and you can add vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. Sauté any additional vegetables with the onions and garlic to ensure they’re cooked before baking.

These FAQs address common questions and variations, helping you customize this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole to your liking!

This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a fantastic, comforting meal that combines the richness of cream cheese, the freshness of spinach, and a light lemony touch to balance the flavors. Ideal for any gathering or a busy weeknight dinner, this casserole promises to please even the pickiest eaters. Try this recipe for a satisfying meal, and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite with your loved ones!

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