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Easy Healthy Chicken Florentine Casserole photo

Healthy Chicken Florentine Casserole

This Healthy Chicken Florentine Casserole is a nutritious delight! Packed with tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and a creamy sauce, it’s perfect for family meals.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole:
  • 12 ounces boneless skinless chicken breasts pre-cooked and cut into cubes
  • 4.5 ounces spinach boxed, frozen, thawed, and squeezed to remove excess liquid
  • 2 large garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1.5 cups fat-free chicken broth
  • a pinch nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese blended to make smooth consistency
  • 2/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (use small holes on grater)
  • 0.5 pound whole grain pasta (such as farfalle, penne, or spirals)

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking dish
  • Blender

Method
 

Directions:
  1. Begin by cooking your whole grain pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to cook it al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Then, add the thawed and squeezed spinach to the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes, mixing well to combine.
  3. Sprinkle the flour over the spinach and garlic mixture, stirring to incorporate. Gradually add the chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice, nutmeg, oregano, and black pepper.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cubed chicken, and the creamy spinach sauce. Fold in the low-fat cottage cheese until well mixed. The cottage cheese will create a lovely creamy texture throughout the casserole.
  5. Gently fold in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
  6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
  7. Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm and enjoy this delightful Healthy Chicken Florentine Casserole with your loved ones!

Notes

  • Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy in the oven.
  • Make sure to squeeze out all excess liquid from the spinach; this prevents the casserole from being watery.
  • Use freshly grated cheese for the best flavor and meltability.