Chicken Florentine Gnocchi Casserole

If you’re searching for a comforting, cheesy, and wholesome meal that brings the rich flavors of Italy right to your dinner table, look no further than this Chicken Florentine Gnocchi Casserole. It’s a delightful casserole that combines tender shredded chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a medley of fresh spinach and cheeses, all baked to bubbling perfection. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend dinner, this casserole is bound to become a household favorite. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so irresistible and how you can easily make it at home.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

This Chicken Florentine Gnocchi Casserole stands out for its delightful marriage of flavors and textures. Unlike typical casseroles, it uses gnocchi instead of pasta, giving each bite a soft, pillowy texture that is uniquely satisfying. The fresh spinach adds a vibrant earthiness and a nutritional boost, while the trio of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses melts into a creamy, golden topping. The shredded chicken breast ensures hearty protein, making this dish a complete meal.

What truly elevates this recipe is the simplicity paired with depth—garlic and Italian seasoning infuse the dish with warmth and flavor without overwhelming the fresh ingredients. Plus, a splash of chicken broth keeps the gnocchi tender and prevents dryness during baking. If you enjoy dishes like the Spinach Artichoke Lasagna Bake or the Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake, you’ll love this casserole for its cozy, cheesy goodness with a twist.

Ingredients at a Glance

• 1 pound chicken breast, cooked and shredded
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 bag (16 ounces) gnocchi
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chicken broth

Tools of the Trade

• Large skillet: For sautéing garlic and spinach, and lightly cooking gnocchi.
• Large mixing bowl: To combine all ingredients before baking.
• Baking dish (9×13-inch): Perfect size for layering and baking the casserole.
• Cheese grater: For shredding mozzarella and grating Parmesan.
• Knife and cutting board: To chop spinach and mince garlic.

Method: Chicken Florentine Gnocchi Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, usually until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Spinach

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then remove from heat.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked gnocchi, shredded chicken breast, sautéed spinach and garlic, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and chicken broth. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the gnocchi mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows it to set slightly, making it easier to portion and enjoy.

In-Season Swaps

• Swap spinach for fresh kale or Swiss chard for a heartier green.
• Use sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of tangy flavor.
• Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter, vegetarian twist (omit chicken accordingly).
• Try adding mushrooms or roasted red peppers for extra depth.
• Use a mix of fresh herbs like basil and oregano instead of Italian seasoning.

Troubleshooting Tips

• If the casserole is too dry, add an extra splash of chicken broth before baking.
• Overcooked gnocchi can become mushy; cook just until they float and drain immediately.
• For an extra crispy top, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes after baking but watch closely to prevent burning.
• If your spinach is releasing too much water, squeeze excess moisture out before mixing.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

Allow the Chicken Florentine Gnocchi Casserole to cool completely before storing. Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

To reheat, place individual portions in a microwave-safe dish and warm for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. For oven reheating, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.

This casserole also freezes well. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Your Top Questions

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out excess water to prevent the casserole from becoming watery.

Is it necessary to cook the chicken breast beforehand?

Yes, cooking and shredding the chicken breast before assembling the casserole ensures it’s fully cooked and tender inside the dish.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth. You can also add extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for more substance.

What type of gnocchi works best for this recipe?

Store-bought potato gnocchi works perfectly for this recipe. Just be sure to cook them according to package instructions before assembling the casserole.

Healthy-ish Favorites

• Spinach Artichoke Lasagna Bake – A creamy, cheesy veggie-packed casserole that’s a crowd-pleaser.
• Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake – Rich and flavorful, with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach in a luscious sauce.
• Spinach Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Breasts – Tender chicken breasts filled with fresh spinach and melty mozzarella.

Hungry for More?

If you love the cozy flavors of this Chicken Florentine Gnocchi Casserole, you might want to explore other recipes that combine fresh greens, creamy cheeses, and tender chicken in easy, family-friendly dishes. From lasagna bakes to pasta casseroles, there’s a world of comforting meals waiting to be discovered. Keep your kitchen stocked with fresh spinach, quality cheeses, and versatile proteins to whip up delicious dinners anytime.

This Chicken Florentine Gnocchi Casserole is the perfect example of a fuss-free, flavorful meal that doesn’t skimp on heartiness or taste. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or hosting a casual dinner, this casserole delivers a satisfying blend of textures and flavors everyone will love. So, grab your ingredients and make this delightful dish your next go-to dinner!

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