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Craving a cozy, comforting dinner that’s ready in around 30 minutes? This Chicken Florentine Casserole (Low-Carb) is here to deliver! Creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken, fresh spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes, it’s a low-carb twist on a classic comfort food favorite. Whether you’re following a low-carb lifestyle or just looking for a quick, family-friendly meal, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s so easy to make that you’ll have it on the table faster than you can say, “Seconds, please!”
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Why You'll Love This Chicken Florentine Casserole
- Quick & Easy Comfort Food: This casserole comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, it’s a stress-free way to enjoy a cozy, comforting meal.
- Creamy, Cheesy, & Flavor-Packed: Loaded with tender chicken, fresh spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich, creamy sauce, every bite is bursting with flavor. Topped with a golden, buttery breadcrumb crust, it’s a dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly low-carb!
- Versatile & Family-Friendly: Whether you’re following a low-carb lifestyle or just looking for a crowd-pleasing dinner, this casserole is a winner. Swap in regular pasta and breadcrumbs if you prefer, or keep it low-carb with keto-friendly alternatives—it’s delicious either way!
In This Post
Chicken Florentine Casserole: A Creamy, Low-Carb Comfort Food Classic!
If you’ve been dealing with the rollercoaster of winter weather like we have here in Western Washington, you know the struggle. One day, it’s sunshine and warmth; the next, it’s rain, and then—bam!—snow and freezing temps. It’s like Mother Nature can’t make up her mind!
On those gloomy, rainy days when the whole family is feeling the winter blues, there’s nothing better than diving into a warm, comforting dish. For me, that usually means something with pasta and cheese. Thank goodness for low-carb pasta—it lets me enjoy all the cozy comfort without the guilt!
This Chicken Florentine Casserole is my latest obsession. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken, fresh spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes—a combo that’s so good, it’s practically magic. And let’s not forget the golden, buttery breadcrumb topping that takes it over the top.
Now, my husband (aka The Complainer) is a firm believer that a meal isn’t complete without meat. While he’d prefer beef every night, I like to mix it up with chicken and fish. This time, I raided the fridge and pantry and found two of my favorite ingredients: spinach and sun-dried tomatoes. I still have a jar of my homemade sun-dried tomatoes (which I may or may not snack on straight from the jar), and fresh baby spinach is a staple in my fridge for smoothies and salads. Together, they’re a match made in culinary heaven.
When I started making this casserole, I knew it would be good—but I had no idea just how good. It’s the kind of hearty, stick-to-your-ribs meal that warms you from the inside out. And the best part? The Mr. devoured his first bowl and went back for seconds in record time. That’s what I call a win!
Whether you’re following a low-carb lifestyle or just looking for a family-friendly comfort food classic, this Chicken Florentine Casserole is here to save the day. Let’s make dinner cozy, delicious, and totally stress-free!
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🥄Chicken Florentine Casserole Ingredient Notes
Here, I explain the best ingredients for my Chicken Florentine Casserole recipe, what each one does, and substitution options. For the exact measurements, see the recipe card below.
- Low-Carb Penne Pasta:
Why It’s Here: Provides the classic pasta texture while keeping the dish low-carb.
Substitution: Use regular penne pasta if you’re not following a low-carb diet. - Fresh Baby Spinach:
Why It’s Here: Adds a pop of color, nutrients, and a mild, fresh flavor.
Substitution: Frozen spinach can be used—just thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding. - Olive Oil:
Why It’s Here: Used for cooking the chicken and creating the roux, adding richness and flavor.
Substitution: Avocado oil or butter can be used for a different flavor profile. - Chicken Breasts:
Why It’s Here: Provides lean protein and a hearty base for the casserole.
Substitution: Chicken thighs or rotisserie chicken can be used for extra flavor and convenience. - Garlic:
Why It’s Here: Adds a savory, aromatic depth to the dish.
Substitution: Use 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder if fresh garlic isn’t available. - Xanthan Gum (or Flour):
Why It’s Here: Acts as a thickener for the creamy sauce. Xanthan gum is low-carb, while flour is a traditional option.
Substitution: Use 2 tablespoons of flour if not following a low-carb diet. - Dry White Wine:
Why It’s Here: Adds acidity and depth to the sauce.
Substitution: Use chicken bone broth or vegetable broth mixed with 1 tablespoon of white wine vinegar or lemon juice. - Heavy Cream:
Why It’s Here: Creates a rich, creamy sauce that’s irresistible.
Substitution: Use half-and-half or canned coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free option. - Parmesan Cheese:
Why It’s Here: Adds a salty, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
Substitution: Nutritional yeast or a dairy-free Parmesan alternative can be used for a vegan version. - Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Why It’s Here: Adds a sweet, tangy flavor and chewy texture.
Substitution: Use roasted red peppers or omit if preferred. - Mozzarella Cheese:
Why It’s Here: Melts into gooey, cheesy perfection.
Substitution: Use any melty cheese like provolone or cheddar. - Italian Seasoning Blend:
Why It’s Here: Adds a classic herbaceous flavor.
Substitution: Use a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme. - Keto Bread Crumbs:
Why It’s Here: Creates a crispy, golden topping while keeping the dish low-carb.
Substitution: Use regular panko breadcrumbs if not following a low-carb diet.
Dietary Adaptations:
Low-Carb: Stick with low-carb pasta and keto breadcrumbs.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
The printable recipe card at the bottom of the page contains a detailed list of measurements and instructions.
📦 Storing and Reheating Your Chicken Florentine Casserole
Storing Leftovers
- Cool Completely: Let the casserole cool to room temperature before storing.
- Airtight Container: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate: Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well for longer storage:
- Portion It Out: Divide the casserole into individual servings for easy reheating.
- Freezer-Safe Container: Store in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in foil and place in a zip-top bag.
- Freeze: Keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
- Thaw: Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To bring your Chicken Florentine Casserole back to life:
Oven Method (Best for Crispy Topping):
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish. If it seems dry, add a splash of cream or broth.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the topping.
Microwave Method (Quick but Less Crispy):
- Place a portion of the casserole in a microwave-safe dish.
- Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
- Microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
Stovetop Method (For Smaller Portions):
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of cream or broth to prevent sticking.
- Add the casserole and stir occasionally until warmed through.
Pro Tips for Reheating:
- Revive the Topping: If the breadcrumb topping loses its crispiness, toast a handful of fresh breadcrumbs in a skillet with a little butter and sprinkle them over the reheated casserole.
- Add Freshness: Garnish with chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice after reheating to brighten the flavors.
With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your Chicken Florentine Casserole all over again—just as delicious as the first time!
💭My Recipe Tips
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: If using regular pasta, cook it just until al dente. It will continue to soften in the oven, so you don’t want it overcooked.
- Prep Ahead: Chop the chicken, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes ahead of time to make assembly even quicker.
- Customize the Veggies: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted red peppers for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Low-Carb Swaps: Stick with low-carb pasta and keto breadcrumbs to keep this dish keto-friendly.
- Thicken the Sauce: If the sauce isn’t thick enough, whisk in an additional 1/2 teaspoon of xanthan gum (or 1 tablespoon of flour) and cook for another 1–2 minutes.
- Toast the Breadcrumbs: Don’t skip toasting the breadcrumbs in butter—it adds a rich, nutty flavor and extra crunch to the topping.
- Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh baby spinach works best for this recipe, but if using frozen, thaw and squeeze out excess moisture first.
- Double the Batch: This casserole is perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd. Double the ingredients and freeze half for a quick dinner later.
- Add a Kick: Do you love spice? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle heat.
- Let It Rest: After baking, allow the casserole to cool for 5–10 minutes. This helps the sauce set and makes it easier to serve.
With these tips, you’ll master this Chicken Florentine Casserole and make it your own.
FAQ about Chicken Florentine Casserole
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Definitely! Freeze before or after baking. If freezing unbaked, thaw in the fridge overnight before baking. If freezing after baking, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Absolutely! If you are not on a low-carb diet, you can swap the low-carb pasta for regular penne or any pasta shape you love. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
🍽️Serving Suggestions
This creamy, cheesy casserole is a star on its own, but here are some creative ways to serve it and make it shine even brighter:
Classic Comfort Pairings
- Fresh Salad: Balance the casserole's richness with a crisp Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette or a simple Tomato Avocado and Corn Salad.
- Garlicky Greens: Serve with a side of Sautéed Garlic Spinach or Kale for an extra dose of greens.
- Crusty Bread: Add a slice of warm Keto Garlic Bread or a Keto Dinner Roll for dipping into the creamy sauce.
Elevated Dinner Party Style
- Starter: Begin with a Keto Tomato Bisque or a Caesar Salad to set the stage.
- Main Event: Serve the casserole as the star of the show, garnished with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan.
- Dessert: For a sweet finish, end with Keto Red Velvet Mousse or a No-Bake Keto Lemon Cheesecake.
Next-Day Enjoyment
- Lunch Upgrade: Pack leftovers for lunch and pair it with a Simple Green Salad or a cup of Easy Cauliflower Cheese Soup.
- Casserole Tacos: For a fun twist, wrap reheated casserole in low-carb tortillas with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole.
- Breakfast Hash: Sauté leftovers with scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast.
Seasonal Touches
- Spring: Serve with Steamed Asparagus or a Pea and Mint Salad for a fresh, seasonal vibe.
- Fall/Winter: Pair with Roasted Brussels Sprouts or Butternut Squash for a cozy, hearty meal.
These serving suggestions are designed to inspire creativity and make your Chicken Florentine Casserole the star of any meal.
More Delicious Casserole Recipes...
Chicken Florentine Casserole (Low-Carb)
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 pound low-carb penne pasta use regular penne if not low-carb
- 10 ounces fresh baby spinach
- 4 tablespoons olive oil divided
- 1 pound chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum use 2 tablespoons flour if not low-carb
- 1/2 cup dry white wine See Notes
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil drained and chopped
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning blend
- Fresh ground nutmeg to taste
- 1 teaspoon pink salt or more to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper or more to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 cup keto bread crumbs See Notes
- 2 teaspoons flat-leaf parsley chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain well and return to the pot. Toss the spinach with the hot pasta, cover the pot, and set aside.
Cook the chicken:
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until no pink remains, about 5–7 minutes. Transfer the cooked chicken to the pot with the pasta and spinach. Cover to keep warm.
Make the sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently. Sprinkle in the xanthan gum (or flour) and whisk well
Add liquids:
- Pour in the white wine and heavy cream, stirring constantly. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens, about 5–6 minutes. *See Notes
Season the sauce:
- Stir in the Italian seasoning, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese and sun-dried tomatoes.
Combine everything:
- Add the pasta mixture to the Dutch oven or skillet and stir to combine. Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish.
Toast the bread crumbs:
- In a small skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the bread crumbs and cook, stirring frequently, until browned and toasted, about 3 minutes. Stir in the chopped parsley.
Assemble and bake:
- Sprinkle the toasted bread crumbs evenly over the pasta. Bake in the preheated oven until the top is golden brown and bubbly, about 20–25 minutes.
Notes
Disclaimer
Most of my recipes are low-carb (or keto) and gluten-free, but some are not. Please verify that a recipe fits your needs before using it. Recommended and linked products are not guaranteed to be gluten-free. Recipes may contain errors, so please use your common sense when following them. Nutritional information is provided as a courtesy and is approximate only. We cannot guarantee the accuracy of the nutritional information given for any recipe on this site. Erythritol carbs will not be included as it has a glycemic index of 0 (meaning it does not spike blood sugar) and it’s not metabolized. Net carbs are the total carbs minus fiber.
Nutrition
Food safety
- Cook to a minimum temperature of 165 °F (74 °C)
- Do not use the same utensils on cooked food, that previously touched raw meat
- Wash hands after touching raw meat
- Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
- Never leave cooking food unattended
- Use oils with a high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
- Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove
See more guidelines at USDA.gov.
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