Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

Recipes

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole

Ingredients:

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
    • Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Set aside.
  2. Prepare Chicken:
    • Cut the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create four cutlets.
    • Pound the thicker ends with a rolling pin to ensure even thickness.
  3. Marinate Chicken:
    • In a large bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
    • Add the chicken, toss to coat, then cover and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes.
  4. Cook Spinach:
    • Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
    • Add the spinach and cook, stirring frequently, until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Set aside.
  5. Prepare Creamy Spinach Mixture:
    • In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
    • Add the wilted spinach, 1/2 cup of mozzarella, and Parmesan (if using). Mix until smooth.
  6. Assemble Casserole:
    • Take the chicken out of the marinade and let the excess drip off. If desired, sear the chicken in the skillet for 1-2 minutes per side.
    • Arrange the chicken in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
    • Spread the spinach and cream cheese mixture over the chicken.
    • Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top.
  7. Bake:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
  8. Serve:
    • Let the casserole stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole!