This Creamy Chicken Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender , sautéed mushrooms, fresh , and a rich sauce, all topped with gooey melted . Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep, this recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Casserole:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or butter)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for added depth)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper Creamy Chicken Casserole
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown (it will finish cooking in the oven). Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter.
- Add the mushrooms and sauté for 4–5 minutes until tender and golden.
Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the spinach and cook until wilted. Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth.
Creamy Chicken Casserole Add Italian seasoning, nutmeg (if using), and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce thickens slightly (about 3–4 minutes).
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Place the seared chicken in a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish.
Spread the sautéed spinach and mushrooms evenly over the chicken.
Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken and vegetables.
Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
Step 5: Bake
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and the cheese is golden and bubbly Creamy Chicken Casserole
Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Casserole
Customize Veggies: Swap spinach with kale or add other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
Cheese Options: Use Gruyère, Fontina, or a mix of cheeses for a unique flavor profile.
Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs perfectly with:
Steamed rice or quinoa
Mashed potatoes
Crusty bread
A fresh side salad
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories and Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approximately):
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 1g