This Healthy Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole is a creamy, comforting dish inspired by the classic dip, but made more nutritious. It combines tender chicken, leafy spinach, and artichoke hearts in a cheesy, high-protein base—perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This casserole delivers all the rich flavors of spinach artichoke dip in a balanced, protein-packed meal. It’s easy to make, requires minimal prep, and is lighter than traditional versions thanks to Greek yogurt and reduced-fat cheeses. Plus, it’s gluten-free, family-friendly, and great for leftovers.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
- Baby spinach
- Artichoke hearts (canned or frozen, drained and chopped)
- Cream cheese (softened)
- Plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Garlic (minced)
- Salt and pepper
- Optional: red pepper flakes or lemon zest for added flavor
directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the spinach with a bit of oil or water until wilted. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, Greek yogurt, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Add the cooked chicken, chopped artichokes, and wilted spinach to the mixture. Stir to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the top is lightly golden.
- Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Low-fat version: Use low-fat cream cheese and reduced-fat mozzarella.
- Add grains: Stir in cooked quinoa or brown rice for extra fiber and heartiness.
- Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Add herbs: Try fresh basil, parsley, or thyme for additional flavor.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or place the entire dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works well and saves time on prep.
Is this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that packaged items like cream cheese are certified gluten-free.
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, thaw and drain it well before using to avoid excess moisture.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
You can try dairy-free alternatives for cream cheese, yogurt, and cheese, though the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?
Sour cream or cottage cheese are good substitutes, though Greek yogurt adds protein and a slight tang.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
It should be hot and bubbling, and the cheese on top should be melted and slightly golden.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate it (covered) for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I add pasta to this casserole?
Absolutely. Mix in cooked pasta before baking for a heartier meal.
What’s the best way to chop artichokes?
Roughly chop canned or thawed frozen artichoke hearts into bite-sized pieces. Avoid using marinated artichokes as they may overpower the dish.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes. Freeze either before or after baking. Wrap tightly and label. Bake from frozen or thaw overnight before reheating.
Conclusion
Healthy Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole is the ideal blend of comfort and nutrition. With its creamy texture, hearty chicken, and flavorful vegetables, it’s a satisfying main dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to be a family favorite. Whether you’re meal prepping or feeding a crowd, this casserole offers a wholesome, delicious solution.
Print
Healthy Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Sauté, Bake
- Cuisine: American
Description
Description A lighter twist on the classic dip, this spinach artichoke chicken casserole blends lean shredded chicken, sautéed spinach, tender artichokes, and a creamy Greek yogurt base. Baked to perfection with a golden cheese topping, it’s a healthy, low-carb, and protein-rich dinner the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 3 cups fresh spinach chopped (or 1 cup frozen, thawed and drained)
- 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts drained and roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup low-fat cream cheese softened
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, then add spinach and cook until wilted
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken, sautéed spinach, chopped artichokes, Greek yogurt, cream cheese, Parmesan, onion powder, salt, and pepper
- Mix until well combined and transfer to a greased 9×9-inch or similar baking dish
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and casserole is heated through
- Let rest a few minutes before serving
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for quick prep
- Substitute kale or Swiss chard for spinach if desired
- Make it dairy-free using plant-based yogurt and cheese alternatives
- Great for meal prep and reheats well for lunch or dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *