Hey there, fellow home chefs! Are you on the hunt for a delectable dinner idea that'll wow everyone at the table? Look no further! I've got a total comfort food classic for you that's just as easy to make as it is satisfying to eat. Imagine tender chicken nestled in creamy cheese and nutritious spinach, all baked to perfection. Get ready, because we're about to whip up a Spinach Chicken Casserole that'll have everyone asking for seconds.
This dish is all about layering flavors and textures to create something super cozy and utterly delicious. It's perfect for those evenings when you crave something hearty but still want to sneak in those greens for good measure. So let's get that oven fired up and start creating some magic with cream cheese, mozzarella, and chicken in a way that'll make your taste buds want to stand up and dance!
Spinach Chicken Casserole with Cream Cheese and Mozzarella
Ingredients You Need:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced horizontally to make 'em thinner
- 8 oz cream cheese (let it hang out at room temp so it's nice and soft)
- A couple handfuls of spinach (about 2 cups), give 'em a good rinse
- A glug of olive oil (about 1 tablespoon)
- A good handful of Mozzarella cheese shredded (that's about 4 oz)
For The Marinade:
- 3 cloves of garlic, give 'em a mince
- Another glug of olive oil (1 tablespoon)
- A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, but if you like a kick, go for it!)
- A sprinkle of Italian seasoning (optional, but it's got those herby vibes)
Let's Get Cooking!
Alright, grab a Ziplock bag and throw in your olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if you're using 'em), and about 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Seal that bag and shake it like a polaroid picture until everything's mixed up nice and good. Pop the chicken breasts in there, seal it again, and give it a little massage so the chicken's all cozy in the marinade. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes — just enough time to get the rest of your stuff prepped.
Now, let's wilt those spinach leaves! Heat up a skillet with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and let those greens shrink down a bit, then take 'em off the heat.
Grab a baking dish, and lovingly layout your marinated chicken breasts in there. Smear that soft cream cheese all over the chicken like you're icing a cake. Next, lay that wilted spinach over the cream cheese like a blanket. To top it all off, sprinkle the mozzarella cheese right over the spinach.
Time to bake! Slide your creation into the oven and let it do its thing for 20-30 minutes at 400ºF (200°C). You'll know it's ready when the chicken reaches a cooked-through internal temperature of 165˚F (75°C). It should be all bubbling and gorgeously golden.
Serve it piping hot! It's super cozy with some cauliflower rice or roasted veggies on the side. Dig in and enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth goodness!
There you have it, a straight-up delicious Spinach Chicken Casserole that's sure to brighten up your dinner time. It's got all the goodness you want in a casserole with a creamy, cheesy top that'll have everyone reaching for more. Cheers to a meal that's just as nutritious as it is delicious! 🍽✨