Let’s be honest—some days you just need a dinner that feels like a cozy hug. And that’s exactly what this Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese delivers. It’s creamy, cheesy, packed with protein, and ready to win hearts at your dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something comforting without spending all evening in the kitchen.
You know that magical balance between “homemade goodness” and “effortless prep”? This dish nails it. With just a few simple ingredients (most you probably already have on hand), you’ll create something that tastes like a restaurant special—without the price tag or the fuss.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese
- It’s comfort in a casserole dish. Think creamy, cheesy goodness that feels like a warm hug after a long day.
- Simple ingredients, big flavor. No fancy grocery runs here—just everyday staples coming together in the most delicious way.
- Quick prep, minimal mess. You’ll have this beauty in the oven before your favorite playlist even hits the third song.
- Perfectly balanced. Tender chicken, creamy sauce, and just the right touch of spinach to make you feel a little virtuous.
- Crowd-pleaser status guaranteed. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner, a potluck, or a family gathering, everyone will be asking for seconds (and the recipe).
- Meal-prep friendly. It reheats like a dream, making leftovers something you’ll actually look forward to.
- A little indulgence, a lot of love. Because sometimes, we all deserve a dish that tastes like comfort and care baked into every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, optional
How to Make Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Think of this as your canvas for culinary magic.
2. Prepare the Chicken
Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to create four thin cutlets. Give them a gentle pound if they’re uneven—no need to go Hulk on them, just enough for even cooking.
3. Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss in the chicken, making sure it’s well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for 15–30 minutes to let the flavors mingle.
4. Cook the Spinach
In a skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the spinach and cook until just wilted (about 2–3 minutes). Remove from heat and set aside. Don’t worry if it looks like it shrank into nothing—it’s still full of flavor!
5. Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Stir in the cooked spinach and ½ cup of shredded mozzarella (and Parmesan, if you’re using it). This is your creamy, cheesy dream layer.
6. Optional but Delicious: Sear the Chicken
If you’ve got a few extra minutes, give the marinated chicken a quick sear—1–2 minutes per side. It adds a beautiful golden edge and a deeper flavor.
7. Assemble the Casserole
Lay the chicken in a single layer in your prepared baking dish. Spread the spinach and cream cheese mixture evenly over the top. Sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese (and maybe a little extra if you’re a cheese lover—no judgment here!).
8. Bake
Bake for 20–30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through (165°F/75°C) and the cheese is melted and lightly browned. Take a peek around the 25-minute mark; every oven has its quirks.
9. Serve and Enjoy
Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Pair with a crisp salad, roasted veggies, or even a side of buttery noodles. The creamy sauce works wonders with just about anything.

Aneta’s Kitchen Tip
If your sauce looks a little lumpy before baking—don’t panic! The magic happens in the oven. The heat smooths everything out into a luscious, cheesy layer.
And here’s another little secret: this Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese tastes even better the next day. The flavors meld overnight, making it a perfect meal-prep option for busy weeks.
A Little Story from My Kitchen
This recipe was born one chilly evening when I opened the fridge and found spinach, cream cheese, and some chicken breasts staring back at me. Instead of my usual grilled chicken (boring!), I decided to get creative. The result? My family’s new favorite comfort food.
Now it’s my go-to dish when I want something hearty, creamy, and just a little indulgent—without spending hours cooking.
FAQs About Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just thaw it completely and squeeze out the excess water before mixing it with the cream cheese.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble it up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Just add 5–10 extra minutes to the baking time when cooking straight from the fridge.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm and creamy again.
Can I use a different cheese?
Sure thing! Monterey Jack, provolone, or even cheddar can work if that’s what you have on hand.

Bring the Magic to Your Table
If comfort food had a personality, this Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese would be the friend who always shows up with a warm hug and good gossip. It’s easy, flavorful, and satisfying in every bite.
So next time you need a quick dinner that feels special, skip the takeout and give this recipe a try. Your kitchen will smell amazing, your family will ask for seconds, and you’ll wonder how something so simple can taste this good.
More Cozy Chicken Dishes You’ll Love
If this Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese has you craving more creamy, comforting meals, you’re in luck! I’ve got plenty of irresistible options to keep your dinner table exciting and your taste buds happy:
- Try my Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole Delight for another easy, family-approved dinner that delivers rich flavor in every bite.
- If you loved the velvety texture of this casserole, the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a must-try—silky sauce, tender chicken, and comfort all in one pan.
- Looking for a cozy twist with a cheesy kick? You’ll adore the Million Dollar Chicken Bake—it’s indulgent, satisfying, and perfect for feeding a hungry crowd.
- For a casserole with a seasonal flair, check out the French Onion Chicken Rice Bake—melty, savory, and ideal for those nights when you want something deeply comforting.
Each of these recipes pairs beautifully with the same comforting vibes as today’s dish, making your next dinner decision deliciously easy.
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Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is the ultimate cozy dinner fix—rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor. Tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a velvety cream cheese sauce bake together under a blanket of golden, melted mozzarella. It’s simple enough for a busy weeknight, yet comforting enough to serve at Sunday dinner.
Ingredients
-
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
-
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
-
3 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
-
¼ teaspoon salt
-
½ teaspoon black pepper
-
2 cups fresh spinach
-
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
-
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
-
½ cup Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
-
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. -
Prepare the Chicken:
Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to make four thin cutlets. Lightly pound thicker ends to ensure even cooking. -
Marinate:
In a large bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 15–30 minutes. -
Cook the Spinach:
Heat the remaining olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add spinach and cook until wilted (2–3 minutes). Set aside. -
Mix the Filling:
In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Stir in cooked spinach, ½ cup mozzarella, and Parmesan (if using). -
Optional – Sear the Chicken:
For extra flavor, sear marinated chicken in a hot skillet for 1–2 minutes per side until lightly golden. -
Assemble the Casserole:
Arrange chicken in the prepared baking dish. Spread the cream cheese and spinach mixture evenly over the top. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella cheese. -
Bake:
Bake uncovered for 20–30 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and cheese is melted and lightly browned. -
Serve:
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Pair with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or pasta for a complete meal.
Notes
You can substitute frozen spinach—just thaw completely and squeeze out excess moisture.
For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese and part-skim mozzarella.
Make ahead: Assemble, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Leftovers keep beautifully—store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 425 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 560 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 36 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg