Easy Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole You’ll Love to Make
When I first decided to embrace a keto lifestyle, I thought I’d have to bid farewell to comfort food. But then, inspiration struck! Picture this: a creamy, cheesy Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole that feels indulgent yet fits perfectly within my low-carb goals. This dish combines succulent chicken with the rich flavors of a classic dip, enveloped in a velvety sauce that’s topped with gooey mozzarella.
What I love most is how this recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for quick weeknight dinners or meal prep for busy weekends. Imagine serving a warm, bubbling casserole that even those not on a keto diet will devour happily. With each bite, you’re enjoying a satisfying blend of textures and flavors that’s both hearty and healthy. Join me as we explore how to make this delicious casserole that redefines comfort food!
How to make Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole?
Simplicity at its finest: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Creamy, Cheesy Delight: Every bite is rich with flavor from the combination of cream cheese, mozzarella, and tangy artichokes.
Keto-Friendly Appeal: With only 7g net carbs per serving, you can enjoy comfort food guilt-free!
Crowd-Pleasing: Even your non-Keto friends will love diving into this ultimate satisfying casserole.
Versatile Options: Customize it by adding sun-dried tomatoes or swapping out artichokes for asparagus!
Feel free to check out our meal prep tips to get the most out of this delicious dish!
How to Make Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole Ingredients
For the Casserole
• Cooked Chicken – Provides the main protein and structure to the dish. Substitution Note: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• Frozen Spinach – Adds moisture and nutrition. Ensure it is thawed and well-drained to avoid excess water.
• Artichoke Hearts – Brings a unique flavor and texture. Use plain canned or frozen artichokes, rinsed beforehand.
• Cream Cheese – Creates a creamy base for the sauce. Ensure it is at room temperature for easy mixing.
• Parmesan Cheese – Adds flavor and richness. Grated for optimal melting and mixing.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Topping that creates a golden, bubbly crust. Feel free to use low-fat mozzarella if preferred.
• Sour Cream – Adds creaminess and tang. Can be substituted with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
• Heavy Cream – Provides richness; however, milk can be used for a lighter version, though the consistency may vary.
• Mayonnaise – Enhances creaminess; can be omitted if desired.
• Garlic – Imparts flavor depth. Use minced garlic for a more intense taste.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance overall flavor.
Feel inspired to create this dish and experience the joy of making Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole, a delightful addition to your cooking repertoire!
How to Make Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a perfectly baked casserole with a golden brown top.
Mix together cream cheese, sour cream, heavy cream, mayonnaise, garlic, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Blend until you achieve a smooth consistency, which sets the creamy foundation for your casserole.
Incorporate cooked chicken, thawed and drained spinach, artichoke hearts, Parmesan cheese, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella into the creamy mixture. Stir gently until everything is well combined, creating a vibrant and hearty filling.
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9” x 13” baking dish, spreading it evenly to ensure a uniform bake.
Top the casserole with the remaining mozzarella cheese, which will melt and create that irresistible gooey layer.
Bake for 20 minutes, then increase the oven temperature to 400°F (204°C) and bake for an additional 5 minutes. You want it bubbly and golden on top for the perfect finish!
Cool slightly before serving to let the flavors settle and for easier slicing.
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Spinach Artichoke Variations
Feel free to unleash your culinary creativity with these tasty twists on your casserole!
- Fresh Spinach: Use 6-8 cups of fresh spinach instead of frozen for a vibrant, earthy flavor. Just remember to wilt it first!
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add diced sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of tangy sweetness and a lovely pop of color in every bite.
- Asparagus Swap: Replace artichokes with tender asparagus for a fresh and crunchy alternative that retains that wonderful texture.
- Cheese Blitz: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or feta for a unique flavor profile that excites your taste buds.
- Creamy Herb Infusion: Blend in fresh herbs like dill or basil for an aromatic touch that elevates the entire dish.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give your casserole a zesty heat that will wake up your senses.
- Nutty Crunch: Top with crushed nuts, such as almond slices or pecans, to add a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess below.
- Cauliflower Rice: Make it even lower in carbs by swapping half of the chicken for riced cauliflower, adding more nutrients while keeping it hearty.
What to Serve with Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole?
Imagine your family gathered around the table, savoring the comforting aroma wafting from the kitchen as you create the perfect meal to accompany your casserole.
Garlic Bread: This classic side offers a crunchy contrast and complements the creamy flavors beautifully. The buttery garlic flavor is simply irresistible alongside the casserole.
Mixed Green Salad: A light and fresh salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette adds brightness to your plate. Toss in cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for added texture and a pop of color.
Roasted Broccoli: Crispy, seasoned broccoli balances the richness of the casserole. This vibrant green veggie is not only healthy but will enhance your meal’s nutritional value.
Keto-Friendly Biscuits: Flaky and buttery biscuits satisfy those carb cravings while keeping you on track with your dietary goals. They’re perfect for scooping up every last bite of casserole.
Creamy Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw made with a zesty dressing offers a delightful crunch and tang to counteract the casserole’s richness. Plus, its creamy texture mirrors the casserole’s charm!
Sparkling Water or Lemonade: A refreshing drink, whether sparkling water infused with lemon or a homemade sugar-free lemonade, will elevate your dining experience. The zestiness will cleanse your palate!
Enjoy building a memorable meal with these enticing sides that beautifully pair with your Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole, enhancing each bite with a delightful balance of flavors!
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casseroles are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance, just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil to prevent drying out. For even longer storage, you can freeze the casserole before baking for up to 3 months; just thaw it in the fridge the night before you plan to bake it. When ready to cook, simply preheat your oven and bake from frozen for about 10-15 extra minutes, or until bubbly and golden. This method ensures the casserole retains its delicious creamy texture and flavors, saving you time for more precious moments with your family!
Storage Tips for Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole
Room Temperature: You can keep the casserole at room temperature for up to 2 hours after baking.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: This casserole can be frozen before or after baking for up to 2 months. Make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions. Enjoy this delightful spinach artichoke chicken casserole!
Expert Tips for Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole
- Drain Thoroughly: Make sure the spinach is well-drained to avoid a watery casserole that could ruin the texture.
- Room Temperature: Allow cream cheese to come to room temperature for easier mixing, ensuring a ultra-smooth sauce.
- Crispier Top: If you prefer a golden, crispy topping, broil the casserole for an additional couple of minutes after baking.
- Leftover Love: Store leftovers in an airtight container; they’ll last a few days in the fridge or can be frozen for longer preservation.
- Meal Prep Magic: This casserole can be prepared ahead of time. Assemble it the night before, refrigerate, and bake when you’re ready to feast!
- Customize it: Feel free to experiment! Substituting different vegetables or adding spices can give your spinach artichoke chicken casserole a unique twist.
Enjoy crafting this delightful dish that showcases exactly how to make spinach artichoke chicken casserole!
Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best spinach for this recipe?
Absolutely! For this casserole, frozen spinach works best because it’s already prepped and packed with nutrients. Just ensure it’s thoroughly thawed and well-drained. You can also use fresh spinach if you prefer; I’d recommend about 6-8 cups to account for wilting.
How do I store leftovers?
Very simple! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will remain fresh for up to 3 days. Make sure to allow the casserole to cool to room temperature before sealing to maintain its texture.
Can I freeze Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole?
Yes, you can! This casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months, either before or after baking. If you’re freezing it before baking, assemble the dish as usual, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, or use a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
What should I do if my casserole turns out watery?
The most common culprit is excess moisture from the spinach. To prevent this, ensure that you drain the spinach thoroughly. If you find your casserole is already watery after baking, try broiling it for a few minutes to help evaporate some of the liquid and crisp up the top!
Is this recipe suitable for people with dairy allergies?
Good question! Since this Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole contains several dairy products, including cream cheese, sour cream, and heavy cream, it’s not suitable for those with dairy allergies. However, you can try substituting those with dairy-free alternatives like cashew cream or coconut yogurt, though it may alter the flavor slightly.
Can I use different cheeses?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix it up. If you want a sharper taste, consider adding cheddar cheese or using a blend of your favorites. Just remember, cheese can add back some carbs, so if you’re strictly following keto, double-check the options you choose!
Easy Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole You’ll Love to Make
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix together cream cheese, sour cream, heavy cream, mayonnaise, garlic, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Incorporate cooked chicken, thawed and drained spinach, artichoke hearts, Parmesan cheese, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella into the creamy mixture.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9” x 13” baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Top the casserole with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 20 minutes, then increase the temperature to 400°F (204°C) and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
- Cool slightly before serving.
