Chicken Florentine Bake

This Creamy Chicken Florentine Bake brings together tender chicken, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella over a savory bed of spinach. It’s comforting, rich, and bursting with flavor perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you’re craving something cozy and cheesy with a fresh green twist.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
2. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and sear 5–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
3. In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 1 minute. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2–3 minutes.
4. Lower heat and stir in ricotta, cream, Parmesan, and red pepper flakes. Mix until creamy and smooth.
5. Return chicken breasts to skillet, spoon sauce over the top, and sprinkle with mozzarella.
6. Cover and simmer for 5 minutes, or place under the broiler until cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Variation

• Mushroom Florentine – Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the skillet after removing the chicken. Sauté until tender before adding the spinach and sauce for an earthy twist.
• Sun-Dried Tomato Florentine – Stir in ¼ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes with the spinach for a tangy depth that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
• Low-Carb Swap – Replace the cream and mozzarella with a blend of cream cheese and extra ricotta for a keto-friendly version that’s still rich and satisfying.

Cooking Notes

1. Fresh spinach can be used as-is, but sautéing it first removes excess moisture.
2. Let the chicken rest a few minutes after cooking to retain juices before slicing.
3. Cover loosely with foil if the cheese browns too quickly during baking.

Serving Suggestions

1. Serve with buttered pasta, garlic bread, or roasted baby potatoes.
2. Pair with a crisp side salad or steamed green beans for freshness.
3. Add a splash of lemon juice or fresh herbs on top for a bright finish.

Tips

• Broil the top for 2-3 minutes at the end for a golden, bubbly cheese layer.
• Make it ahead and refrigerate just bake when ready to serve.
• Want extra richness? Stir a spoonful of cream cheese into the spinach mix.