Description
Hearty chicken and spinach casserole offers comfort with rich, cheesy goodness that promises pure satisfaction. Home cooks will relish this simple yet delicious Mediterranean-inspired dish perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Proteins:
- 2 cups (480 ml) cooked chicken, shredded
Vegetables:
- 4 cups (960 ml) fresh spinach, chopped
Dairy and Seasonings:
- 1 cup (240 ml) cream cheese
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) sour cream
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Warm the oven to a toasty 375°F, preparing a baking vessel with a light coating of grease to prevent sticking.
- Gently transform fresh spinach into a wilted state using a skillet over moderate heat, then carefully transfer to a separate container.
- Craft a luxurious sauce by whisking cream cheese, tangy sour cream, rich chicken broth, aromatic garlic powder, and a delicate balance of salt and pepper until achieving a silky, uniform consistency.
- Introduce tender shredded chicken and the previously wilted spinach into the creamy mixture, ensuring each ingredient is thoroughly embraced by the velvety sauce.
- Transfer the harmonious blend into the waiting baking dish, creating an inviting canvas for the final touch of culinary artistry.
- Generously crown the casserole with a lavish layer of melty mozzarella and nutty Parmesan cheese, promising a golden, irresistible finish.
- Slide the dish into the preheated oven, allowing the casserole to transform for 20-25 minutes until the top becomes a captivating golden brown and the edges bubble with appetizing enthusiasm.
- Pause briefly after removing from the oven, letting the casserole settle and intensify its flavors before serving this comforting masterpiece.
Notes
- Swap dairy for lighter alternatives like Greek yogurt and low-fat cream cheese to reduce calories without sacrificing flavor.
- Enhance protein by adding quinoa or white beans alongside chicken for extra nutrition and texture variety.
- Create a gluten-free version by ensuring all ingredients are certified gluten-free and checking seasoning labels carefully.
- Elevate the dish’s depth by roasting garlic instead of using powder, which intensifies the overall savory profile and adds complexity to the casserole.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg