There’s something undeniably comforting about a bubbling, cheesy casserole fresh from the oven. Our Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole strikes that perfect balance between creamy indulgence and wholesome ingredients. Tender, shredded chicken mingles with vibrant spinach and tender artichoke hearts, all embraced by a luscious blend of sour cream and mayonnaise. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures: the tender chicken, the silky spinach, and the slight tang of Parmesan cheese. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with friends. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe’s beginner-friendly steps make it a breeze to whip up something truly special.
Beyond its comforting flavors, this casserole is incredibly versatile and forgiving. You can prepare it ahead of time and simply pop it into the oven when you’re ready, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time for a stress-free meal. Swapping Greek yogurt for sour cream offers a lighter twist, while a sprinkle of red pepper flakes delivers a gentle heat that wakes up your taste buds. With just 15 minutes of hands-on prep and 35 minutes of baking, you’ll have a golden, bubbly masterpiece in under an hour. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad or warm garlic bread to round out the meal. It’s ideal for feeding a hungry family, impressing potluck crowds, or simply treating yourself to a comforting dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN SPINACH AND ARTICHOKE CHICKEN CASSEROLE
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s get acquainted with the star players in this creamy, cheesy casserole. Each ingredient contributes its own unique flavor and texture, coming together in harmony to create a dish that’s both satisfying and simple.
- Cooked Chicken
Shredded or diced, this tender protein base soaks up the creamy sauce and adds hearty substance. Leftover roasted or poached chicken works beautifully here, making weeknight meal prep a breeze.
- Artichoke Hearts
Chopped and drained, these bring a subtle nutty flavor and a delicate bite. Their tender leaves complement the spinach and add a hint of Mediterranean flair.
- Frozen Chopped Spinach
Thawed and well-drained to prevent excess moisture, the spinach brings vibrant color and nutrient-rich greens. It melds seamlessly into the creamy mix, ensuring every forkful is packed with goodness.
- Mayonnaise
Adds richness and smoothness to the sauce. Its tangy undertones balance the cheese and create a velvety texture.
- Sour Cream
Provides a gentle tang and extra creaminess. It lightens the mayo’s richness while enhancing the overall sauce.
- Mozzarella Cheese
Offers gooey stretchiness and mild, milky flavor. Mixed in and sprinkled on top, it ensures a beautifully bubbly and golden crust.
- Parmesan Cheese
Grated for sharp, salty depth. It intensifies the savory profile and helps form that irresistible, cheesy browning on top.
- Garlic Powder
Delivers warm, aromatic notes without the fuss of fresh garlic. It deepens the flavor profile subtly.
- Onion Powder
Brings gentle sweetness and complexity. It pairs perfectly with garlic powder for a well-rounded seasoning.
- Black Pepper
Adds a gentle heat and peppery bite that cuts through the richness. Freshly ground is best for a lively punch.
- Salt
Enhances all the flavors, elevating the creamy base and cheeses. Just a pinch is enough to bring everything together.
- Olive Oil
Used to grease the baking dish, it prevents sticking and imparts a hint of fruity richness to the edges.
- Breadcrumbs
Coated in butter and sprinkled on top, they create a crunchy finish that contrasts delightfully with the creamy interior.
- Butter
Melted and mixed into the breadcrumbs, it ensures golden browning and adds nutty richness to the topping.
HOW TO MAKE SPINACH AND ARTICHOKE CHICKEN CASSEROLE
Let’s walk through the simple yet rewarding steps to assemble and bake this comforting casserole. You’ll layer tender chicken, vibrant greens, and creamy cheeses, then finish it off with a crunchy breadcrumb topping. Follow these instructions closely for a casserole that’s golden, bubbly, and utterly irresistible.
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the casserole cooks evenly and the topping crisps up nicely.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, chopped artichoke hearts, and thawed spinach. Ensure the spinach is well-drained to avoid excess liquid in the final dish.
3. Add the mayonnaise, sour cream, ¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese, ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything until the ingredients are evenly distributed and the sauce is smooth.
4. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and promote a golden edge.
5. Spread the chicken and spinach mixture evenly in the prepared dish, smoothing the top with a spatula for uniform baking.
6. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter until the crumbs are thoroughly coated, creating a rich, crunchy topping.
7. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the casserole layer, then finish with the remaining ¼ cup mozzarella and ¼ cup Parmesan cheese for extra gooeyness.
8. Cover the casserole with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the filling to heat through.
9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly, offering that perfect crispy-cheesy crust.
10. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving, giving the casserole time to set for clean, hearty slices.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR SPINACH AND ARTICHOKE CHICKEN CASSEROLE
Now that your casserole is beautifully golden and perfectly bubbly, let’s talk about presentation and pairings to elevate your meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family weeknight supper, a few thoughtful touches can make each serving feel extra special.
- Serve with fresh garden salad featuring crisp lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. The bright acidity cuts through the casserole’s richness.
- Pair alongside warm garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls. The crisp exterior and soft interior are ideal for sopping up any leftover creamy sauce.
- Accompany with steamed seasonal vegetables, like asparagus or green beans. A quick steam and a drizzle of lemon juice bring color, nutrients, and a refreshing complement.
- Offer a side of tangy coleslaw with shredded cabbage and a light vinaigrette. Its crunchy texture and zesty flavor contrast beautifully with the casserole’s creamy, cheese-laden profile.
HOW TO STORE SPINACH AND ARTICHOKE CHICKEN CASSEROLE
Whether you have leftovers to savor later or want to prepare in advance for a busy weeknight, proper storage ensures your casserole retains its flavor and texture. Here are a few tried-and-true methods to keep this dish tasting just as good as the day it was baked.
- Refrigerate in an air-tight container once cooled to room temperature. This helps prevent moisture loss and keeps flavors fresh for up to 4 days.
- Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers. Label with the date and reheat directly from frozen, adding an extra 5–10 minutes to the baking time at 375°F for a thoroughly warmed center.
- Store in the original baking dish, tightly covered with plastic wrap or foil, if you plan to eat within 2–3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain that crisp topping.
- Reheat single servings in the microwave on medium power, covered with a damp paper towel to preserve moisture. Finish with a quick 2-minute broil if you want to restore a golden top.
CONCLUSION
This Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole is a delightful blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors that will quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation. We started with tender cooked chicken, vibrant spinach, and nutty artichoke hearts, all enveloped in a tangy mayo-sour cream sauce and crowned with two types of cheese and a buttery breadcrumb topping. From the initial prep—just 15 minutes of chopping, mixing, and layering—to the 35 minutes in the oven and a brief rest, you’ll have a home-cooked masterpiece in under an hour. Ideal for beginners, this beginner-friendly recipe requires no advanced techniques, yet delivers restaurant-quality comfort right from your own kitchen. Don’t forget that you can print out this article or save it for later reference, making it easy to revisit these instructions whenever you’re craving a warm, hearty casserole. You’ll also find a FAQ below for any additional tips or troubleshooting.
We’d love to hear how your casserole turned out! Did you add a spicy kick with red pepper flakes or swap in Greek yogurt for a lighter spin? Leave your comments, questions, or feedback below—especially if you need help perfecting the texture or adjusting seasonings to taste. Your experiences and suggestions help make this recipe even better for everyone in our cooking community. Happy baking, and here’s to many delicious, cozy dinners ahead!
Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole
Description
This Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole melds tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and cheesy artichokes into a luscious, baked delight that's sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, chopped artichoke hearts, and thawed spinach.
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Add mayonnaise, sour cream, 3/4 cup mozzarella cheese, 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything until well combined.
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Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
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Spread the chicken and spinach mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
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In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter until the crumbs are thoroughly coated.
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Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the casserole, then follow with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
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Cover the casserole with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
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Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
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Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving.
Note
- This dish can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator; just add 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
- Serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a healthier version.
- For a spicy twist, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture.
