Spanakopita-Inspired Chicken & White Bean Casserole
Spanakopita-Inspired Chicken Casserole with White Beans is a delightful fusion of Mediterranean flavors and hearty comfort food. This dish takes inspiration from the classic Greek spanakopita, combining the creamy goodness of spinach and feta with protein-packed chicken and white beans. Topped with golden, flaky phyllo dough, it offers a perfect blend of crisp textures and savory aromas. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests, this Spanakopita-Inspired Chicken Casserole with White Beans delivers a nutritious and delicious meal with a Mediterranean twist.
Recipe Details
- Active Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Servings: 6
Nutrition Profile:
- Sesame-Free
- Nut-Free
- Healthy Pregnancy
- Soy-Free
- High-Protein
- Egg-Free
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 1 cup finely chopped yellow onion
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped garlic
- 1 (10-ounce) package frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 4 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese, cubed and softened
- 1 (15-ounce) can no-salt-added white beans, rinsed (cannellini, garbanzo, or navy beans work well)
- 3 cups chopped cooked chicken
- ¾ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ⅓ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 ½ tablespoons chopped fresh dill
- ½ teaspoon grated lemon zest
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 6 frozen phyllo pastry sheets, thawed in the refrigerator overnight
Directions
Step 1: Prep Your Workspace
Preheat the oven to 400°F and lightly coat an 8-inch-square baking dish with cooking spray.
Step 2: Cook the Filling
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the thawed spinach and cream cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese melts and evenly coats the vegetables (about 2 minutes). Remove from heat and transfer the mixture to a medium bowl. Let it cool for about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Assemble the Filling
To the cooled spinach mixture, add the white beans, cooked chicken, feta, Parmesan, dill, lemon zest, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well combined. Spoon the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Step 4: Create the Phyllo Topping
Cut each phyllo sheet in half crosswise. Place one half-sheet over the casserole filling and brush lightly with the remaining olive oil. Repeat the layering and brushing process with the remaining phyllo sheets, stacking them neatly. Use a sharp knife to score the top into 2-inch squares to make serving easier later.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until the phyllo topping is golden brown and crisp. Allow the casserole to cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Pro Tips for Best Results:
- Prevent Dry Phyllo: Keep unused phyllo sheets under a damp towel while working to prevent them from drying out.
- Customization Options: For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and double the beans.
- Serve with Sides: Pair this dish with a light Greek salad or roasted vegetables for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 395 | - |
| Total Fat | 19g | 24% |
| Saturated Fat | 7g | 35% |
| Cholesterol | 84mg | 28% |
Balanced Nutrition: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, this casserole is both hearty and health-conscious.
Ease of Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in just over an hour.
Mediterranean Inspiration: The flavors of feta, dill, and lemon zest transport your taste buds to the shores of Greece.