Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole Recipe

An enticing medley of succulent chicken, rich cream cheese, delectable artichoke hearts and wholesome spinach, this casserole is a hearty and satisfying dish. Perfect for those cosy family dinners or a potluck with friends, its simplicity of preparation combined with the depth of flavours will make it a hit with everyone.

Photos of Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole Recipe

Most of the ingredients for this recipe will be readily available in a well-stocked home kitchen. However, two specific items, artichoke hearts and frozen spinach, might require a special trip to a supermarket or health food store. Artichoke hearts are often available in the canned goods section, while frozen spinach is typically found in the frozen vegetables aisle.

Ingredients for Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole

Chicken breasts: These are the main protein of this dish, absorbing all the delicious flavours of the spinach and artichoke.

Chilli flakes: Adds a mild heat to the dish, enhancing the overall flavour.

Garlic: Provides an aromatic base for the chicken.

Salt: Balances and brings out the flavours of the other ingredients.

Butter: Used to create a roux for the sauce, adding richness to the dish.

All-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce, giving it a creamy consistency.

Whole milk: Adds creaminess to the sauce.

Cream cheese: Enhances the richness and creaminess of the sauce.

Frozen spinach: Provides a healthy, leafy component that complements the chicken perfectly.

Artichoke hearts: Gives a unique, slightly sweet and nutty flavour to the dish.

Mozzarella cheese: Melts to create a deliciously cheesy top layer.

One reader, Eldin Gonzales says:

This spinach artichoke chicken casserole recipe is a game-changer! The creamy sauce and tender chicken create a perfect harmony of flavors. The spinach and artichoke add a delightful twist. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a comforting and delicious meal. Highly recommended!

Eldin Gonzales

Techniques Required for Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole

How to marinate the chicken: Rub the chicken breasts with chili flakes, minced garlic, and salt, and let them sit for a while to absorb the flavors.

How to make the creamy sauce: Melt butter in a pan, add flour, and slowly whisk in the milk until the sauce thickens. Then, whisk in the cream cheese until smooth.

How to prepare the spinach and artichoke mixture: Squeeze the defrosted spinach to remove excess water, then mix it with the artichoke hearts and salt in a bowl.

How to bake the casserole: Spread the spinach and artichoke mixture on top of the marinated chicken breasts, pour the creamy sauce over them, and bake at 400 degrees F for 35 minutes. Sprinkle mozzarella over the chicken during the last 10 minutes of baking.

How To Make Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole

One way to incorporate more veggies in your meal is to try this chicken casserole recipe. It has spinach and artichokes in a creamy cheese sauce.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 40 minutes

Total: 50 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

4chicken breasts
1tspchilli flakes
2clovesgarlic,minced
1tspsalt,divided
2tbspbutter
1½tbspall-purpose flour
1cupwhole milk
½cupcream cheese
10ozfrozen spinach,defrosted
6ozartichoke hearts,or quarters, roughly chopped
¾cupmozzarella cheese,grated

Instructions

Add chicken breasts, chilli flakes, minced garlic, and ½ teaspoon salt to a baking dish. Rub the spices on both sides of the chicken breasts and arrange them side by side in the baking pan. Set aside to marinate. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
Melt butter in a pan and add flour. On a medium flame, saute the flour for a minute and slowly add milk while whisking continuously to ensure no lumps form. Keep whisking till the sauce comes to a simmer and starts to thicken. Whisk in the cream cheese and set aside.
Squeeze the defrosted spinach to remove any extra water. Add spinach, artichoke hearts, and the remaining ½ teaspoon salt to a bowl and mix well.
Spread the spinach artichoke mixture on top of each chicken breast, pour the sauce all over and bake for 35 minutes. At the 25 minute mark, sprinkle mozzarella over the chicken and place it back in the oven for the next 10 minutes. Serve hot.

Nutrition

Calories: 692.14kcal
Fat: 46.23g
Saturated Fat: 22.67g
Trans Fat: 0.42g
Monounsaturated Fat: 14.58g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.74g
Carbohydrates: 15.34g
Fiber: 4.09g
Sugar: 5.30g
Protein: 54.38g
Cholesterol: 207.99mg
Sodium: 1018.80mg
Calcium: 491.27mg
Potassium: 1112.69mg
Iron: 4.18mg
Vitamin A: 662.70µg
Vitamin C: 25.70mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole

When preparing the chicken breasts, it's crucial to evenly rub the spices on both sides. This ensures that the flavor is well-distributed throughout the meat. Additionally, when making the sauce, whisking continuously prevents lumps from forming, resulting in a smoother and creamier texture. Lastly, squeezing out the extra water from the defrosted spinach is an important step. It prevents the casserole from becoming too watery and maintains the rich, creamy consistency of the dish.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Casserole Recipe

Prep ahead: Marinate the chicken the night before and store it in the fridge. You can also prepare the spinach artichoke mixture and the sauce a day in advance to save time on the day of cooking.

One-pan wonder: Use a large oven-safe skillet to cook the chicken, make the sauce, and bake the casserole all in one pan, minimizing clean-up and saving time.

Double up: Make a double batch of the spinach artichoke mixture and freeze half for a quick and easy meal in the future.

Efficient assembly: Use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken to cut down on the cooking time and simplify the assembly process.

Time-saving tools: Utilize kitchen tools like a garlic press, food processor, or pre-shredded cheese to streamline the prep work.

Substitute Ingredients For Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole Recipe

chicken breasts - Substitute with turkey breasts: Turkey breasts can be used as a lean and flavorful alternative to chicken breasts in this recipe. They have a similar texture and can be cooked in the same way.
chilli flakes - Substitute with paprika: Paprika can provide a mild, smoky flavor without the heat of chili flakes, making it a suitable substitute for those who prefer a milder spice level.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can offer a milder, slightly sweet flavor compared to garlic, adding a unique depth to the dish.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative to butter, providing a rich flavor while reducing the saturated fat content.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free flour: For those with gluten sensitivities, gluten-free flour can be used as a suitable substitute to thicken the sauce without compromising the texture.
whole milk - Substitute with unsweetened almond milk: Unsweetened almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative, providing a creamy texture without the lactose.
cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can offer a tangy, creamy consistency similar to cream cheese, while adding a boost of protein to the dish.
frozen spinach - Substitute with fresh spinach: Fresh spinach can be used as a substitute for frozen spinach, providing a vibrant color and a slightly different texture to the dish.
artichoke hearts - Substitute with zucchini: Sliced zucchini can provide a similar mild flavor and tender texture to artichoke hearts, adding a unique twist to the casserole.
mozzarella cheese - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone cheese can be used as a substitute for mozzarella, offering a slightly sharper flavor and a creamy melt, complementing the other ingredients in the casserole.

Best Way to Present Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole

Elevate the plating: When presenting the Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use white plates to allow the vibrant colors of the dish to stand out. Arrange the chicken breasts neatly and top them with the spinach artichoke mixture, ensuring each element is showcased beautifully.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a touch of freshness and color to the dish by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or basil. Sprinkle the herbs over the casserole just before serving to enhance the overall visual appeal and provide a hint of freshness to the presentation.
Incorporate texture: Consider adding a textural element to the dish by sprinkling toasted breadcrumbs or crushed nuts over the casserole. This not only adds a delightful crunch but also adds a layer of sophistication to the presentation.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the main components of the dish to shine. Avoid overcrowding the plate and instead, strategically position the elements to create a visually striking and balanced presentation.
Accentuate with a drizzle: Elevate the visual appeal by drizzling a balsamic reduction or a vibrant pesto sauce around the edge of the plate. The addition of a carefully executed drizzle adds a touch of finesse and sophistication to the overall presentation.
Consider plate geometry: Experiment with plate geometry to create an aesthetically pleasing arrangement. Opt for square or rectangular plates to complement the linear arrangement of the chicken breasts and accentuate the modern, upscale presentation of the casserole.
Highlight with microgreens: Introduce a pop of color and delicate flavor by garnishing the casserole with a sprinkle of vibrant microgreens. The addition of these tiny, flavorful greens not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a layer of culinary finesse to the presentation.
Emphasize symmetry: Strive for symmetry in the plating arrangement to create a visually harmonious presentation. Carefully position the components of the dish to achieve a balanced and aesthetically pleasing layout on the plate.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Casserole

Baking dish: A heat-resistant dish used for baking or roasting food in the oven.
Pan: A flat-bottomed utensil used for cooking, typically with a handle and often with a lid.
Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for whipping and mixing ingredients.
Bowl: A round, deep dish or basin used for holding food or liquids.
Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking or roasting food by surrounding it with dry heat.

How To Store and Freeze Leftover Casserole

To store leftover spinach artichoke chicken casserole, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
When reheating refrigerated casserole, cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes on high power.
For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole for up to 2-3 months. To freeze, wrap the cooled casserole tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Label the dish with the date and contents.
To reheat frozen casserole, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Remove the plastic wrap and cover the dish with foil. Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 30-40 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly. If the casserole is still frozen, increase the baking time accordingly.
If you plan on freezing the casserole, it's best to slightly undercook the chicken and vegetables, as they will continue to cook when reheated. This helps prevent the dish from becoming overcooked or dry.
Consider portioning the casserole into individual servings before freezing for easier reheating and to avoid having to thaw and reheat the entire dish at once.

How To Reheat Leftover Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole

To reheat leftover spinach artichoke chicken casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the desired portion of the casserole to an oven-safe dish, cover it with aluminum foil, and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. This method ensures that the casserole retains its original texture and flavor without drying out the chicken.
If you're short on time, you can also reheat the spinach artichoke chicken casserole in the microwave. Place a single serving of the casserole on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the cheese is melted. Be sure to stir the casserole halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating and prevent cold spots.
For a crispy top layer, after reheating the spinach artichoke chicken casserole in the oven or microwave, place the dish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes. Keep a close eye on the casserole to prevent burning, and remove it from the broiler once the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat the spinach artichoke chicken casserole for a crispy exterior and a tender, juicy interior. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C), place a portion of the casserole in the basket, and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is heated through and the cheese is melted.
For a stovetop method, place a portion of the spinach artichoke chicken casserole in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is heated through and the cheese is melted. This method works well if you want to add extra ingredients, such as fresh spinach or artichoke hearts, to the reheated casserole.

Random Fact About Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole

The spinach artichoke chicken casserole recipe is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the flavors of tender chicken, creamy spinach, and tangy artichoke hearts. This casserole is a great source of protein and essential nutrients, making it a wholesome meal option. It's a versatile recipe that can be customized with different seasonings and ingredients to suit individual preferences. Whether served as a family dinner or for a special occasion, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures in this hearty chicken casserole.

Is This Chicken Casserole Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

The cost-effectiveness of this spinach artichoke chicken casserole recipe largely depends on the availability and prices of the ingredients in your area. While chicken breasts and artichoke hearts can be pricier, the dish's overall cost is balanced by the use of frozen spinach and basic pantry staples. With an approximate cost of $20, this flavorful casserole can feed a family of four, making it a reasonable option for a satisfying and wholesome meal. As for the verdict, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its taste, nutritional value, and versatility.

Is This Chicken Casserole Healthy or Unhealthy?

The spinach artichoke chicken casserole recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes nutrient-dense ingredients like spinach and artichoke hearts, which are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Chicken breast is a lean protein source, making it a healthier choice compared to fattier cuts of meat. However, the recipe also contains ingredients that can be considered less healthy, such as butter, cream cheese, and mozzarella cheese, which are high in saturated fat and calories. The use of all-purpose flour and whole milk also adds to the overall calorie and carbohydrate content of the dish.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace the butter with olive oil or a healthier cooking oil
Use low-fat milk or a plant-based milk alternative instead of whole milk
Opt for reduced-fat cream cheese or replace it with Greek yogurt for a protein boost and lower fat content
Increase the amount of spinach and artichoke hearts to boost the vegetable content and fiber
Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber and nutrients
Reduce the amount of mozzarella cheese or choose a lower-fat cheese option
Serve the casserole with a side salad or extra vegetables to balance out the meal

Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Chicken Casserole

This spinach artichoke chicken casserole recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The tender chicken breasts are infused with a kick of chili flakes and garlic, while the creamy spinach and artichoke mixture adds a rich and savory element. The velvety sauce, made with cream cheese and mozzarella, ties everything together beautifully. It's a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering. The recipe is well-balanced and easy to follow, making it a standout choice for anyone looking to impress with a delicious and hearty meal.

Enhance Your Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and butter, perfect for pairing with the rich and flavorful spinach artichoke chicken casserole.

Roasted Vegetables: Colorful and tender roasted vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini, seasoned with herbs and olive oil for a healthy and vibrant side to complement the indulgent casserole.

Fruit Salad: A refreshing and light fruit salad with a mix of seasonal fruits, such as berries, melons, and citrus, tossed in a tangy honey-lime dressing to balance out the savory flavors of the casserole.

Alternative Recipes Similar to This Chicken Casserole

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken: This creamy and flavorful chicken dish is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of garlic, parmesan, and cream creates a rich and indulgent sauce that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken.

Mango Salsa Chicken: Add a tropical twist to your chicken dinner with this vibrant and refreshing mango salsa. The sweet and tangy flavors of the mango, combined with the heat of jalapenos, create a delicious topping for grilled or baked chicken.

Butternut Squash Soup: Warm up with a comforting bowl of butternut squash soup. This velvety smooth soup is packed with the sweet and nutty flavor of butternut squash, and is perfect for a chilly evening.

Apple Crisp: Indulge in a classic dessert with this apple crisp recipe. The combination of tender, spiced apples and a crunchy oat topping is a delightful treat that's perfect for any occasion.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Bake until golden and serve hot for a delicious start to any meal.

Bruschetta with Tomato and Basil: Elevate a classic appetizer by topping crispy slices of baguette with a fresh and vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fragrant basil, and tangy balsamic glaze. This appetizer is sure to impress with its burst of flavors and textures.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent, rich chocolate lava cake that oozes with molten chocolate when you dig into it. The warm, gooey center is the perfect contrast to the slightly crispy exterior, creating a delightful texture and flavor experience.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the creamy, velvety smoothness of a classic strawberry cheesecake. The luscious, tangy cream cheese filling is perfectly complemented by the sweet, juicy strawberries on top, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

Why trust this Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a delectable dining experience, as it combines succulent chicken breasts with a flavorful blend of spinach, artichoke hearts, and creamy mozzarella cheese. The creamy sauce, made with cream cheese and whole milk, adds a rich and velvety texture to the dish. The use of chilli flakes and garlic infuses the chicken with a delightful kick of heat and aromatic flavor. Trust in the harmonious combination of these quality ingredients to create a dish that will surely tantalize your taste buds.

Have you tried this Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole Recipe? Share your experience and discuss any tweaks you made in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen spinach?

Yes, you can use fresh spinach instead of frozen spinach. Simply blanch the fresh spinach in boiling water for a few minutes, then drain and chop it before using it in the recipe.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of mozzarella?

Absolutely! You can use any cheese of your choice. Cheddar, parmesan, or even a blend of different cheeses would work well in this recipe.

Can I prepare this dish in advance and bake it later?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil before refrigerating. When you're ready to bake, simply remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before baking.

Can I use fresh artichokes instead of canned artichoke hearts?

Certainly! If you prefer to use fresh artichokes, simply steam or boil them until they are tender, then chop them up and use them in the recipe as a substitute for canned artichoke hearts.

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Of course! You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, as chicken thighs may require slightly longer cooking time than chicken breasts.