Description
Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole is a comforting and nutritious dish combining tender diced chicken breast, fresh spinach, and shredded plant-based cheese in a luscious, creamy sauce made with a natural gelling agent and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). Perfect for busy weeknights or relaxing weekends, this casserole delivers rich flavors, vibrant colors, and wholesome ingredients baked to bubbly perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Vegetables
- 2 cups chicken breast, diced
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Dairy and Sauces
- 1 cup plant-based cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1/4 cup grape juice (natural)
Liquids and Thickeners
- 1 1/2 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon natural gelling agent (such as pectin, agar, or carrageenan)
Oils and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken and Veggies: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast and cook until no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside. In the same pan, sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Sprinkle the natural gelling agent over the sautéed onions and garlic, stirring for about one minute. Gradually whisk in the low sodium chicken broth, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), and grape juice (natural). Let the mixture simmer until it thickens. Then, stir in the shredded plant-based cheese until it melts completely and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine Spinach and Chicken: Add fresh spinach to the sauce and cook just until wilted to preserve vibrant color and nutrients. Gently fold the cooked chicken back into the sauce, mixing evenly for a rich and creamy consistency.
- Bake to Perfection: Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden on top. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
- Use fresh spinach and quality plant-based cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- Do not overcook chicken during sautéing; it will finish cooking in the oven to maintain juiciness.
- Adjust sauce thickness by adding more natural gelling agent or broth as needed.
- Allow casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking to set flavors.
- Opt for low sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: creamy chicken casserole, spinach casserole, plant-based cheese casserole, comfort food, gluten free casserole, weeknight dinner
