Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole: A Healthy and Hearty Dinner Delight

Looking for a delicious and nutritious casserole that’s packed with flavor and easy to make? This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole checks all the boxes. Tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a velvety cream sauce come together in one dish for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy Sunday dinners.

Why This Casserole Is a Winner
This casserole is a well-rounded meal that’s both tasty and nourishing. The combination of lean protein, wholesome spinach, and a lightened-up cream sauce makes it a healthier option compared to traditional casseroles.

• Chicken provides high-quality protein to keep you feeling full and energized
• Fresh spinach adds vitamins, minerals, and fiber for a nutritional boost
• The cream sauce is made with a combination of milk and Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy twist
• Whole wheat pasta ups the fiber content and provides a satisfying, nutty flavor

Ingredients

• 12 oz whole wheat penne pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups low-fat milk
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 6 cups fresh baby spinach
• 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large, deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until bubbly. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
6. Stir in the Greek yogurt, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 3-4 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Add the spinach to the sauce and stir until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
8. In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked penne, chicken, and spinach sauce. Mix well to evenly coat. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan over the top.
9. Bake, uncovered, for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips for Casserole Success

• Cook the pasta just until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy in the casserole.
• Use a combination of mozzarella and Parmesan for the perfect balance of melty, stretchy cheese and nutty, salty flavor.
• To make ahead, assemble the casserole up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Variations to Try

• Tuscan Chicken: Add 1/2 cup of sundried tomatoes and 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil to the spinach sauce for an Italian-inspired twist.
• Broccoli Cheddar: Substitute 4 cups of chopped broccoli florets for the spinach and cheddar cheese for the mozzarella.
• Buffalo Chicken: Toss the cooked chicken with 1/2 cup of buffalo sauce before adding to the casserole. Top with crumbled blue cheese in addition to the mozzarella.
• Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and add extra veggies like sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. Use vegetable broth in place of the chicken broth.

This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a delicious and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. It’s a great way to sneak some extra veggies into your diet while enjoying the comfort of a warm, cheesy casserole. Plus, it makes fantastic leftovers, so you can enjoy it for lunch the next day.

So next time you’re craving a hearty, satisfying casserole that’s packed with wholesome ingredients, give this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Bake a try. It’s a healthy twist on a classic comfort food that’s sure to become a new family favorite.

Pro Tip: For an extra flavor boost, try stirring in a tablespoon of Dijon mustard or a teaspoon of smoked paprika into the spinach sauce. These simple additions can take your casserole to the next level of deliciousness!