Chicken Spinach Casserole
A hearty chicken and spinach casserole with melted mozzarella, creamy cottage cheese, and flavorful herbs, perfect for comforting family dinners and meal prep.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the cooked, chopped chicken, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, and rosemary in a bowl.
- Thaw and drain the frozen spinach.
- Mix the spinach with cooked egg noodles and cottage cheese.
- Layer the chicken mixture, spinach mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese in a 2-quart baking dish, ending with the chicken layer.
- Top with paprika.
- Bake at 350°F for 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs instead of dried, or try adding some sautéed onions or bell peppers to the chicken mixture. You can substitute the cottage cheese with ricotta for a creamier texture. If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken works great in this recipe. For a lighter version, use low-fat cream of chicken soup.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside garlic bread or a warm baguette. A light vinaigrette can complement the richness of the casserole, making it a perfect addition to your table.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture and prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Spinach Casserole contains roughly 912 calories, with 50g protein, 117g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (258% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (191% of the Daily Value), and iron (169% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1385mg per serving (60% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach. Just sauté it until wilted and drain any excess water before mixing it with the other ingredients. This will enhance the flavor and texture of your casserole.
Is there a gluten-free option for the noodles?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free pasta or spiralized vegetables like zucchini or squash as a substitute for egg noodles, making this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it and cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, then refrigerate. Bake it when you're ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's cold from the fridge.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).