Creamy Chicken Florentine Artichoke Casserole

Serves 6

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Allergens: Contains Milk

Diet: Diabetic-Friendly

Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 medium white onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 16 oz baby spinach
• 10 oz frozen artichoke hearts, thawed and roughly chopped
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups warmed milk
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 2 cups grated Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cups shredded cooked chicken
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Preparation:

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly with nonstick spray. Set the dish aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the thinly sliced onion and cook until it starts to turn translucent, about 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
3. Add the baby spinach and the chopped artichoke hearts to the skillet, and cook until the spinach has wilted. Transfer this mixture to a large bowl and set it aside.
4. In the same skillet, melt the butter. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring frequently.
5. Gradually pour in the warmed milk, whisking constantly. Continue to cook until the mixture starts to bubble and thicken.
6. Remove the skillet from heat, then stir in the Italian seasoning, grated Monterey Jack cheese, and season with salt and pepper. Stir until the cheese has fully melted.
7. Combine the cheese sauce with the spinach and artichoke mixture, and gently fold in the shredded cooked chicken. Ensure that everything is well incorporated.
8. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and evenly sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top.
9. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake until the casserole becomes bubbly and turns a beautiful golden brown, which should take approximately 30 minutes.
10. Allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole!