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Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is the perfect harmony of comfort and convenience. Made with tender rotisserie chicken, fragrant onion and chive cream cheese, fresh spinach, and a cheesy golden topping, this dish is both wholesome and indulgent. It’s a go-to weeknight dinner that’s rich, flavorful, and easy to prepare in under an hour.

Full 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 oz each) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and 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

Directions

Prep and Preheat: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Adjust rack to upper third of the oven. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Sauté Base Flavors: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper, and ¾ tsp of salt. Cook until onions are softened (about 4 minutes).
Make the Sauce: Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly, until slightly thickened (about 3 minutes).
Add Creaminess: Stir in cream cheese and remaining 1 tsp salt until melted and well combined. Remove skillet from heat.
Combine Ingredients: Stir in chicken, rice, spinach, lemon juice, and zest until everything is well mixed.
Assemble and Bake: Transfer the mixture to the baking dish. Top evenly with mozzarella and Parmesan. Bake for about 15 minutes, until cheese is melted.
Broil Finish: Broil for 2–3 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Serve: Let rest a few minutes before serving hot.

Nutrients (estimated per serving, based on 8 servings)

Calories: ~430
Protein: ~30g
Fat: ~20g
Carbohydrates: ~30g
Fiber: ~3g
Sugar: ~4g
Sodium: ~650mg

Why You’ll Love This Casserole

There’s something undeniably appealing about a dish that’s rich, creamy, and hearty—but still feels balanced and fresh. This casserole delivers on every front. It’s layered with savory flavor thanks to sautéed onions, garlic, and Italian herbs, while the red pepper flakes add just a touch of heat. The chive and onion cream cheese lends a unique tang that elevates the flavor profile beyond your typical creamy casserole. Spinach adds color, nutrients, and texture, making this dish feel as wholesome as it is indulgent.

Built for Busy Schedules

This casserole is a lifesaver on nights when you want something substantial but don’t have the time or energy for a complicated recipe. Using rotisserie chicken and cooked rice as shortcuts means you’re saving valuable time without sacrificing quality. With a quick stovetop sauce and a short baking time, this dish fits perfectly into a weeknight routine—especially since it leaves you with minimal cleanup afterward.

Balanced Nutrition in Every Bite

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole offers a great nutritional balance. Each serving delivers around 430 calories, 30 grams of protein, and a healthy dose of leafy greens from the spinach. The use of whole milk and cream cheese provides richness without needing heavy cream, and the combination of rice and chicken offers lasting satiety. For those watching their fat or sodium intake, the recipe can be easily adapted with lower-fat dairy or reduced-sodium cheeses without compromising flavor.

Flavorful Layers That Satisfy

Every element of this dish contributes to its comfort-food appeal. The base of sautéed onions and garlic builds aroma and depth, while Italian seasoning and a pinch of red pepper elevate the flavor with a subtle kick. The creamy white sauce comes together with a blend of flour, milk, and cream cheese, coating the ingredients in a luscious blanket of goodness. When baked, the mozzarella and Parmesan topping creates a bubbly, golden crust that adds texture and visual appeal.

Perfect for Meal Prep and Make-Ahead

One of the great things about this casserole is how well it holds up for leftovers. In fact, it might even taste better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. It stores easily in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be portioned out for lunches or reheated for a second dinner. If you’re prepping meals for the week, assemble the dish in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake. You can also freeze it—just wrap tightly and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven.

Flexible and Customizable

There are countless ways to make this casserole your own. Don’t have rotisserie chicken? Any cooked chicken breast or thigh meat will work. Prefer brown rice or quinoa over white rice? Go ahead and swap it in. You can also use fresh spinach instead of frozen, or stir in extras like mushrooms, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes for added depth. For a slightly tangier taste, substitute Greek yogurt for some of the cream cheese or mix in a few tablespoons of sour cream.

Elegant Enough to Impress, Easy Enough for Everyday

While this casserole is a practical choice for weeknight dinners, it’s also elegant enough to serve to guests. The golden cheesy topping and specks of vibrant green spinach make for a beautiful presentation. Serve it with a crisp green salad and a glass of chilled white wine, and you’ve got a dinner that feels both comforting and refined. It’s equally welcome at a casual family meal, a potluck gathering, or even a holiday spread.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs well with a few light sides. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness, while roasted vegetables or garlic green beans complement the creamy texture. Crusty bread or garlic toast makes an excellent addition for soaking up every last bit of sauce. For a fun twist, serve it with lemon wedges on the side to brighten each bite with a hint of citrus.

A Dish That Delivers Every Time

With its perfect blend of flavor, texture, and ease, Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole has earned its place as a staple in any home cook’s repertoire. It’s comforting enough for the pickiest eater, nourishing enough for the health-conscious, and convenient enough for even the busiest schedule. Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting friends, or just craving something cozy and homemade, this dish checks all the boxes.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is the ultimate balance of comfort, nutrition, and convenience. Its simple preparation, satisfying ingredients, and rich, cheesy finish make it a standout recipe for both everyday dinners and special occasions. Whether served hot from the oven or reheated as leftovers, it’s a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this casserole is sure to become a beloved favorite in your household.