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This creamy spinach chicken casserole is the kind of comforting dish that comes together fast but delivers the richness of something slow-cooked. When the day’s been hectic and dinner needs to feel like a warm hug without taking hours in the kitchen this has been my go to. Tender chicken fresh spinach and a velvety parmesan cream sauce melt into something really satisfying.
I first made this on a rushed Tuesday night and my kids scraped the dish clean before I even sat down. Now it’s our midweek favorite when we want something hearty without the hassle.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: about one pound cut in half crosswise for even cooking and tenderness
- Fresh spinach: adds vibrant color and flavor be sure to rinse and pat dry
- Monterey Jack cheese: melts beautifully and creates that perfect gooey top
- Mayonnaise: forms the creamy base with a slight tang
- Sour cream: softens the richness and balances flavors
- Grated parmesan cheese: brings sharpness and depth
- Ground black pepper: adds warmth without overpowering
- Garlic salt: seasons the sauce while saving time
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a large baking dish so nothing sticks during baking
- Mix the Creamy Sauce:
- Combine mayonnaise sour cream grated parmesan black pepper and garlic salt in a bowl. Stir until the texture is smooth and thick
- Layer the Spinach:
- Spread the cleaned spinach evenly over the bottom of the baking dish. This forms a fresh bed that wilts perfectly under the heat
- Add the Chicken:
- Place the raw chicken breasts directly over the spinach. Space them out so they cook evenly
- Spread the Sauce:
- Evenly coat the chicken with the creamy mixture. Use a spoon or spatula to cover each piece generously
- Top with Cheese:
- Sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack cheese across the entire top. The cheese will melt and form a bubbly golden layer
- Bake:
- Place the dish on the lower rack of your oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. The casserole is done when the chicken is fully cooked and the top is golden and bubbling
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Parmesan cheese is what makes this dish sing. I have a block I keep in the fridge just for things like this. Once during a family dinner my brother asked if I had used some secret ingredient because it tasted like something from a cozy restaurant.
Storage Tips
Leftovers keep well for up to three days in the fridge. Store them in a glass container to keep the cheese topping from turning soggy. Reheat covered in the oven or uncovered in the air fryer if you want to restore that crisp cheesy top.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use frozen spinach in place of fresh. Thaw it first and squeeze out as much water as you can with a towel. Greek yogurt works instead of sour cream in a pinch and cheddar or mozzarella can replace the Monterey Jack.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a light green salad to balance the richness. Garlic bread or roasted baby potatoes also pair beautifully. Sometimes I spoon a little extra sauce from the bottom of the pan over rice for my youngest.
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Cultural Context
This dish reminds me of old church potluck casseroles but it leans fresher and a bit lighter. It has the creamy comfort of Southern cooking with a bit of Californian freshness from the spinach. There’s something timeless about it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
- → Is it necessary to pre-cook the chicken?
No, the chicken cooks fully in the oven during the bake time.
- → Can I substitute the Monterey Jack cheese?
Yes, mozzarella or provolone are good alternatives that melt well.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
- → Is this dish low carb?
Yes, with only 2g of carbohydrates per serving, it's suitable for low-carb eating plans.