Bertolli Chicken Florentine & Farfalle brings a taste of Italy to your dinner table. This frozen meal combines tender chicken, spinach, and farfalle pasta in a creamy Parmesan cheese sauce. It’s a convenient option for those seeking an Italian-inspired dish without the fuss of cooking from scratch.

When stored properly in the freezer at 0°F (-18°C), Bertolli Chicken Florentine & Farfalle can last up to three months. This extended shelf life makes it an excellent choice for stocking up and having a quick meal option on hand. The packaging typically includes specific storage instructions to ensure optimal quality.

Once thawed or cooked, it’s best to consume the meal within a short time frame to enjoy its full flavor and texture. Bertolli recommends not refreezing the product after thawing. Any leftovers should be refrigerated promptly and eaten within a few days for the best taste and food safety.

Understanding Bertolli Chicken Florentine Farfalle

Bertolli Chicken Florentine Farfalle is a popular frozen meal that combines pasta, chicken, and spinach in a creamy sauce. This dish offers a convenient way to enjoy Italian-inspired cuisine at home.

Product Description

Bertolli Chicken Florentine Farfalle features farfalle (bowtie) pasta with grilled white meat chicken and farm-grown spinach. The dish is coated in a rich Parmesan and white wine sauce, creating a flavorful combination. It comes in frozen form, typically in 22-ounce packages.

This meal is designed to be quick and easy to prepare. It can be cooked in a skillet or microwave, making it suitable for busy weeknights or when time is limited. The product aims to deliver a restaurant-style dining experience at home.

Key Ingredients

The main components of Bertolli Chicken Florentine Farfalle include:

• Farfalle pasta
• White meat chicken
• Spinach
• Parmesan cheese
• Romano cheese
• Cream
• White wine
• Garlic

The sauce is made with a blend of cheeses, cream, and white wine, giving it a rich and savory flavor. Soybean oil and olive oil are used in the preparation. The chicken is advertised as 100% all-natural, with no artificial flavors or colors added to the dish.

Nutritional Profile

A typical serving size of Bertolli Chicken Florentine Farfalle is around 340 grams. The nutritional breakdown per serving includes:

• Calories: 450
• Total Fat: 19g
• Total Carbohydrate: 40g
• Protein: 25g

The meal provides a balance of macronutrients, with carbohydrates from the pasta, protein from the chicken, and fats from the creamy sauce. It’s important to note that the dish contains dairy products, which may be relevant for those with dietary restrictions.

Shelf Life and Storage

Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the quality and safety of Bertolli Chicken Florentine & Farfalle. The shelf life depends on packaging integrity and storage conditions.

Packaging and Expiration

Bertolli Chicken Florentine & Farfalle comes in a sealed package with a printed expiration date. This date serves as the primary guideline for determining the product’s shelf life.

Unopened packages can be safely stored in the freezer until the expiration date. Once opened, the meal should be consumed within 3-4 days if refrigerated.

For optimal quality, it’s best to use the product before the expiration date. After this date, the flavor and texture may decline, although it may still be safe to eat if properly stored.

Optimal Storage Conditions

Frozen Bertolli Chicken Florentine & Farfalle should be kept at 0°F (-18°C) or below. This temperature maintains food safety and quality for extended periods.

Store unopened packages in the back of the freezer where temperatures are most consistent. Avoid frequent temperature fluctuations, which can lead to freezer burn.

Once thawed, refrigerate leftovers promptly at 40°F (4°C) or below. Use airtight containers to prevent moisture loss and absorption of odors from other foods.

For long-term storage, the meal can be refrozen if thawed in the refrigerator. However, this may affect texture and flavor.

Preparation and Cooking Instructions

Bertolli Chicken Florentine & Farfalle offers quick and easy preparation options. Proper cooking techniques ensure the best flavor and texture for this Italian-inspired dish.

Cooking Directions

Pour the Bertolli Chicken Florentine & Farfalle into a deep 12-inch non-stick skillet. Cover and cook over medium-high heat for 12 to 14 minutes, stirring occasionally. This stovetop method is ideal for achieving the perfect balance of flavors.

For microwave preparation, transfer the contents to a microwave-safe dish. Heat on high for 5-6 minutes, stirring halfway through. Let stand for 1-2 minutes before serving.

Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety. Adjust cooking times as needed, as appliance performance may vary.

Achieving Al Dente Texture

To achieve the ideal al dente texture for the farfalle pasta, closely monitor cooking time. Al dente pasta should be firm to the bite, not mushy or overcooked.

For stovetop cooking, stir the mixture gently every 3-4 minutes. This helps distribute heat evenly and prevents the pasta from sticking together or overcooking.

If using the microwave method, check the pasta’s consistency at the halfway point. Adjust the remaining cooking time if needed to avoid overcooking.

Remember that the pasta will continue to cook slightly after removing from heat due to residual heat. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Taste and Quality

Bertolli Chicken Florentine & Farfalle offers an authentic Italian-inspired flavor profile with premium ingredients. The dish combines grilled white meat chicken, al dente farfalle pasta, and a savory white wine sauce for a classic taste experience.

Assessing the Authentic Flavor

The Chicken Florentine & Farfalle dish delivers a genuine Italian taste. Tender chicken pieces complement the bow-tie pasta, while spinach adds a fresh element. The white wine sauce, enriched with Parmesan and Romano cheeses, creates a harmonious blend of flavors.

Bertolli’s commitment to timeless recipes ensures a consistently delicious meal. The sauce coats the pasta evenly, allowing each bite to capture the full flavor profile. The grilled chicken provides a satisfying protein element without overpowering the other components.

Premium Ingredients

Bertolli prioritizes quality in its ingredient selection. The farfalle pasta is made from durum wheat semolina, giving it an ideal texture and bite. Grilled white meat chicken offers a lean protein option that pairs well with the creamy sauce.

The dish contains no artificial flavors, relying instead on the natural taste of its components. Fresh spinach contributes both flavor and nutritional value. The white wine sauce, a key element, is crafted to enhance the overall taste without being overpowering.

Bertolli’s use of premium ingredients ensures that the Chicken Florentine & Farfalle maintains its quality throughout its shelf life when stored properly. This attention to ingredient quality contributes to the dish’s reputation as a classic Italian favorite among frozen meals.

Pairing Suggestions

Bertolli Chicken Florentine & Farfalle pairs well with select wines that complement its creamy, savory flavors. The right wine can enhance the dish’s taste and create a more enjoyable dining experience.

Recommended Wine Pairings

Dry white wines are excellent choices to accompany Bertolli Chicken Florentine & Farfalle. Sauvignon Blanc offers crisp acidity that cuts through the creamy sauce, while its herbal notes complement the spinach in the dish. Pinot Grigio, with its light body and subtle fruit flavors, provides a refreshing contrast to the rich parmesan cheese sauce.

For those who prefer a fuller-bodied wine, an unoaked or lightly oaked Chardonnay can be a good match. Its buttery notes harmonize with the creamy texture of the sauce. A Vermentino or Soave from Italy can also pair nicely, offering mineral notes that balance the dish’s richness.

Red wine enthusiasts might consider a light-bodied Pinot Noir. Its earthy undertones and bright acidity can work well with the chicken and spinach components of the meal.

Special Dietary Considerations

Bertolli Chicken Florentine & Farfalle contains several common allergens and ingredients that may not suit all dietary needs. Understanding these components is crucial for those with restrictions or sensitivities.

Allergen Information

The dish contains milk, soy, and wheat, which are major allergens. The grilled white meat chicken is a potential allergen for those with poultry sensitivities. The savory white wine sauce includes dairy products, particularly cream and cheese.

Individuals with lactose intolerance should be cautious due to the milk-based ingredients. Those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity must avoid this product as it contains wheat-based pasta. Soy allergy sufferers should also steer clear.

Always check the ingredient list on the packaging, as formulations may change. Cross-contamination during production is possible, so those with severe allergies should exercise caution.

Adapting the Recipe for Dietary Restrictions

For a gluten-free version, substitute the farfalle with gluten-free pasta made from rice, corn, or quinoa. To make it dairy-free, replace the cream-based sauce with a plant-based alternative using coconut milk or cashew cream.

Vegetarians can omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers. For a vegan adaptation, use plant-based chicken substitutes and vegan cheese alternatives.

Low-sodium diets may require reducing or eliminating added salt. Those watching their calorie intake can use lighter versions of cream and cheese or increase the vegetable content while reducing pasta portions.

Consumer Insights

Customer feedback provides valuable insights into the quality, taste, and storage experiences of Bertolli Chicken Florentine & Farfalle. Many consumers appreciate the convenience and flavor of this ready-to-eat meal option.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

Bertolli Chicken Florentine & Farfalle generally receives positive reviews from consumers. Many customers praise its creamy sauce and flavorful combination of chicken, pasta, and spinach. The portion size is often noted as suitable for two people.

Some users appreciate the ease of preparation, with the meal typically ready in under 15 minutes. The product’s affordability is another frequently mentioned positive aspect.

A few consumers have reported issues with uneven heating when following microwave instructions. To address this, stirring the contents halfway through cooking is recommended.

Storage experiences vary among customers. While some report successfully keeping the product frozen for several weeks, others prefer consuming it shortly after purchase for optimal taste and texture.