Description

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

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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

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

Creating the Roux

Stir in the flour and cook for about a minute, stirring constantly to form a smooth paste.
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

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.
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

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

Broiling for a Golden Finish

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

Notes

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!