Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the Chicken:
Shred or chop the cooked chicken breast into small pieces.
Prepare the Spinach:
Wash and dry the fresh spinach. If using frozen spinach, thaw and drain well.
Make the Sauce:
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Gradually stir in the milk and sour cream, continuing to whisk until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat.
Assemble the Casserole:
In a large bowl, combine the chicken, spinach, and three-quarters of the cheese. Pour the sauce over the mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
Transfer to Casserole Dish:
Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly and top with the remaining cheese and any desired optional toppings.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, and serve hot.
What to Serve with "Delicious Chicken and Spinach Casserole"
While this casserole is a complete meal on its own, you can enhance it with:
Crusty Bread: A slice of bread on the side adds a nice texture contrast.
Side Salad: A fresh side salad adds a healthy touch.
Cold Beverages: Pair with a refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade.
Top Tips for Perfecting "Delicious Chicken and Spinach Casserole"
Chicken Choice: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook chicken thighs for added flavor.
Spinach Preparation: If using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly.
Dairy Substitution: For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Storage: Cool the casserole and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk if needed to keep it moist.
Conclusion
"Delicious Chicken and Spinach Casserole" is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting, flavorful dish that brings everyone to the table. Whether you’re cooking for a family or just yourself, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Why not create a delicious and satisfying meal tonight? Happy cooking!