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Homemade Three Cheese Chicken Penne Florentine recipe photo

Three Cheese Chicken Penne Florentine

This Three Cheese Chicken Penne Florentine is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • 3 cups thinly sliced mushrooms
  • 1 cup chopped sweet onion
  • 1 cup chopped red bell pepper
  • 3 cups chopped fresh spinach
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 16-ounce carton nonfat cottage cheese
  • 4 cups hot cooked penne (about 8 ounces uncooked)
  • 2 cups shredded roasted skinless, boneless chicken breast
  • 1 cup shredded reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
  • 1/2 cup grated fresh Parmesan cheese (divided)
  • 1 cup 2% reduced-fat milk
  • 1 10.75-ounce can condensed reduced-fat, reduced-sodium cream of mushroom soup

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet
  • Baking Dish
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced mushrooms, chopped sweet onion, and chopped red bell pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the onions are translucent.
  3. Stir in the chopped fresh spinach and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until wilted. Add the chopped fresh oregano and freshly ground black pepper, mixing well to combine the flavors.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine the nonfat cottage cheese, reduced-fat milk, and condensed cream of mushroom soup. Stir until smooth and well blended.
  5. In a large baking dish, combine the cooked penne, sautéed vegetables, shredded chicken breast, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Pour the cheese mixture over the pasta and toss until everything is evenly coated.
  6. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and half of the grated Parmesan cheese on top of the mixture. This will create a deliciously cheesy crust as it bakes.
  7. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the dish is hot and bubbly, and the cheese is melted and golden brown.

Notes

  • Feel free to adjust the quantities of vegetables based on your preferences.
  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra spice if desired.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions for up to 3 months.