Description
This Quick-Baked Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful one-dish meal that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich mixture of cream cheese, mayonnaise, Parmesan, mozzarella, garlic, spinach, and marinated artichokes. Baked to perfection, this casserole is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner and serves six people.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 lbs chicken breast (boneless and skinless)
Casserole Mixture
- 4 oz cream cheese (slightly warmed up so it’s softened)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2/3 cup mozzarella cheese
- 8 oz marinated artichokes (drained)
- 3 cups fresh spinach (or 4 oz fresh spinach)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×13 casserole dish with cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking. Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts evenly inside the prepared casserole dish.
- Mix the Cheese Sauce: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer or hand beater to blend the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper until smooth. Then stir in most of the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, reserving a bit of both cheeses for topping later.
- Fold in Vegetables: Gently fold the drained marinated artichokes and fresh spinach into the cheese mixture, making sure they are evenly incorporated to create a creamy, textured topping for the chicken.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spoon the prepared cheese and vegetable mixture evenly over the chicken breasts in the casserole dish. Sprinkle the reserved Parmesan and mozzarella cheese over the top to create a cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature reaches 165°F) and the cheese topping is bubbly and lightly browned. For a more browned and bubbly top, increase the oven temperature to 425°F after 25 minutes and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let rest briefly before serving. This casserole pairs wonderfully with rice, cauliflower rice, or pasta for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to make mixing easier and to achieve a smooth sauce.
- Marinated artichokes add extra flavor—drain well to avoid excess moisture.
- Feel free to swap fresh spinach for frozen, but ensure it is well drained and excess water is squeezed out.
- Use a meat thermometer to confirm chicken is cooked through for safety and best texture.
- This dish reheats well and makes great leftovers for the next day.
