Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole

Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole

This Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole transforms the flavors of the popular dip into a warm, filling, and family-friendly dinner. Tender chicken is enveloped in a creamy mixture of spinach, artichokes, cream cheese, and mozzarella, all baked to bubbling perfection. It’s perfect for weeknights yet fancy enough for guests, and it pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or crusty bread.

Time Required

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

2–3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped (rotisserie works great)

Salt & black pepper to taste

For the Creamy Spinach-Artichoke Mixture:

2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 small onion, finely chopped

5 oz fresh baby spinach (or 10 oz frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry)

1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped

1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)

1/2 cup mayonnaise (optional but adds richness)

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

For the Topping:

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

2 tablespoons grated Parmesan

Optional: 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs tossed with 1 tbsp melted butter

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.

Add onion and cook 3–4 minutes until soft.

Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.

Add spinach and cook until wilted (or stir in drained frozen spinach).

Stir in chopped artichokes, cook for another minute. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Base

In a large bowl, mix together cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes until smooth.

Stir in the sautéed spinach-artichoke mixture.

Fold in the shredded chicken. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the mixture into the prepared casserole dish.

Sprinkle the top with mozzarella, Parmesan, and optional buttered breadcrumbs for crunch.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until hot, bubbly, and golden on top.

Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Tips for Best Results

Rotisserie Chicken Hack: Use store-bought cooked chicken to cut prep time.

Drain Spinach Well: If using frozen spinach, squeeze out as much water as possible to prevent sogginess.

Cream Cheese Tip: Let it soften at room temp or microwave for 15–20 seconds for easier mixing.

Add Texture: For a crispy top, don’t skip the buttery panko breadcrumb topping.

Meal Prep: Assemble ahead and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Variations

Low-Carb/Keto: Skip breadcrumbs, use full-fat dairy, and serve with cauliflower rice.

With Pasta: Mix in 2 cups cooked pasta (like penne or rotini) for a complete one-dish meal.

With Rice: Stir in 1–1.5 cups cooked rice before baking.

Spicy Kick: Add 1 diced jalapeño or more red chili flakes.

Cheese Swap: Try Gruyère or fontina for deeper flavor.

Vegetarian: Omit chicken, double the spinach and artichokes, and maybe add mushrooms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use canned chicken?
A: Yes, drained canned chicken works in a pinch, though fresh or rotisserie has better flavor and texture.

Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes! Assemble it, wrap tightly, and freeze unbaked for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen at 350°F for 60–75 minutes, covered, then uncover and finish baking until golden.

Q: How long will leftovers last?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: It’s difficult due to the cheese-heavy nature, but you can try dairy-free cream cheese, yogurt, and cheese alternatives.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving — based on 6 servings)

Note: Nutrition may vary based on specific brands and optional ingredients used.

Conclusion

This Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food — creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner, a potluck, or just meal-prepping for the week, it’s a reliable go-to recipe that pleases every time. It’s adaptable, freezer-friendly, and irresistibly good straight out of the oven.