Chicken Florentine Casserole Recipe

Chicken Florentine Casserole is a delightful blend of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and vibrant spinach, baked to perfection. Originating from Florence, Italy, this dish has become a favorite for home cooks and health enthusiasts alike due to its rich flavors and nutritional benefits.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this flavorful casserole:

• Chicken Breasts (2 large, boneless, skinless)
• Fresh Spinach (4 cups, chopped)
• Mushrooms (1 cup, sliced)
• Onion (1 medium, finely chopped)
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
• Olive Oil (2 tablespoons)
• Butter (2 tablespoons)
• Flour (2 tablespoons, whole wheat for a healthier option)
• Milk (1½ cups, skim or almond milk for a lighter version)
• Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated)
• Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup, shredded)
• Salt and Pepper (to taste)
• Nutmeg (a pinch)
• Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon)

Substitutions:

• Use gluten-free flour if needed.
• Swap out dairy for plant-based alternatives for a lactose-free option.

Preparation

Follow these steps to prepare your Chicken Florentine Casserole:

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides (about 5-7 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, add butter. Once melted, sauté the onions until translucent.
2. Add the garlic and mushrooms, cooking until the mushrooms are tender.
3. Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In a small saucepan, melt another tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour, cooking for about 1 minute.
3. Gradually add milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture thickens.
4. Stir in the nutmeg and half of the Parmesan cheese.

Assembly

Layer the ingredients in your casserole dish for optimal flavor:

1. Slice the cooked chicken breasts and layer them at the bottom of a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Spread the sautéed vegetables evenly over the chicken.
3. Pour the creamy sauce over the top, ensuring everything is well coated.
4. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan and the mozzarella cheese on top.

Cooking

Bake in the preheated oven:

1. Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
2. For a crispier top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Chicken Florentine Casserole with:

• Sides: A fresh garden salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread.
• Beverages: Pair with a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing sparkling water.

Health Benefits

This dish isn't just delicious; it's also packed with nutritional benefits:

• Protein from the chicken supports muscle growth and repair.
• Vitamins and minerals from the spinach and mushrooms boost immune health.
• Healthy fats from olive oil and controlled dairy portions support heart health.

For a healthier twist, consider:

• Using almond milk and whole wheat flour to reduce calories.
• Reducing the amount of cheese or using a low-fat version.

Conclusion

Chicken Florentine Casserole is a wholesome, tasty choice for any family dinner or special occasion. Ready to give it a try? We’d love to hear how it turns out! Share your photos and feedback with us on social media.

Happy Cooking!