Description

Indulge in the comforting embrace of our Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese—a dish that harmoniously blends tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and a luscious cream cheese sauce. This casserole is a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create a meal that's both satisfying and heartwarming. Whether you're seeking a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress at a potluck, this recipe promises to deliver.

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 grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Preparation Method

1. Preheat oven to 400°F or 200°C and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create four thinner cutlets and pound if necessary for even thickness.
3. In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Add chicken cutlets and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for 15 to 30 minutes.
4. Heat remaining olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté spinach for 2 to 3 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
5. In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth and fold in wilted spinach and 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
6. Remove chicken from marinade and sear in the skillet over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes on each side until golden.
7. Arrange seared chicken in the baking dish, spread the cream cheese mixture on top, and sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese.
8. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until cheese is melted and chicken is cooked through. Broil for 2 to 3 minutes for a golden top.
9. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips and Conclusion

For added depth of flavor, consider mixing sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes into the cream cheese and spinach mixture. These additions introduce delightful textures and enhance the overall taste profile.

This Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese is more than just a meal; it's an experience that brings comfort and joy to the table. Its creamy richness paired with the wholesome goodness of spinach makes it a dish that appeals to all ages. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete dining experience. We invite you to explore more of our recipes that bring simplicity and flavor together, ensuring every meal is a celebration.