Cheesy Spinach Parmesan Chicken Casserole
This dish captures everything you want on a chilly evening—creamy, rich, and deeply comforting, yet surprisingly simple to prepare. With only one bowl and a single baking dish, you can put together a flavorful, garlicky casserole that tastes special while using everyday ingredients. Perfect for hectic weeknights, it delivers warmth and satisfaction without a sink full of dishes afterward.
Ingredients (9×13-inch glass or ceramic baking dish)
Chicken
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1½ pounds), patted dry
Vegetable
1 (10-ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and thoroughly drained
Cream Base
1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
Cheese
¾ cup (75 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Flavorings
3 garlic cloves, finely minced
Spice
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, but classic)
Seasoning
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
💡 Kitchen Tips:
• Squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the spinach to avoid thinning the sauce.
• Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties.
• Drying the chicken beforehand helps it cook evenly and prevents excess liquid in the dish.
Easy Step-by-Step Directions
1. Preheat & Prep
Heat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a thin layer of oil.
2. Mix the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the drained spinach, heavy cream, Parmesan, minced garlic, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir until evenly blended.
3. Assemble
Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. Spread the spinach cream mixture evenly over the top, covering each piece thoroughly.
4. Bake
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10–15 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sauce is hot and bubbling.
Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for a lightly golden finish.
5. Rest & Serve
Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Spoon the creamy sauce generously over each portion and enjoy.
