This Creamy Chicken Florentine combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich cream sauce. It’s a cozy dish that’s perfect for dinner! Yum!
I like to serve it over pasta or rice to soak up that delicious sauce. Don’t be surprised if everyone asks for seconds—it’s just that good! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts make this dish tender and easy to cook. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for a richer flavor or even make it vegetarian with mushrooms or tofu.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is essential for the dish’s character. If you don’t have fresh, frozen spinach can work too, but be sure to thaw and drain it well. Kale is also a sturdy alternative if you want something a bit heartier.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creamy texture. For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even milk with a little flour to thicken it. For dairy-free, coconut cream is a good substitute, though it will change the flavor slightly.
Parmesan Cheese: Authentic flavor comes from real Parmesan, but if you’re out, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast can also add that cheesy taste. For a dairy-free version, try cashew cheese.
How Do You Cook the Chicken Perfectly?
Cooking the chicken right is crucial for this dish. Here’s how to ensure it stays juicy and flavorful:
- Always warm the skillet first. Heat olive oil until it shimmers before adding the chicken. This helps with the sear.
- Cook on medium heat for even cooking. Adjust the heat if you notice the chicken browning too fast or not cooking through.
- Let it rest after cooking! Remove chicken and let it sit for a few minutes before slicing. This ensures the juices stay locked in.
Creamy Chicken Florentine
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 5 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and approximately 20 minutes of cooking time, totaling around 35 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but fancy enough for guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously on both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This step is crucial for flavor, so don’t skip it!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sauté them for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check for a safe internal temperature of 165°F if needed. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt. Then add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it smells amazing!
4. Add the Spinach:
Add the roughly chopped spinach to the skillet. Cook it for 2-3 minutes or until it wilts down. This is where the dish starts to come together beautifully!
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring the mixture together to combine all the flavors. Bring it to a gentle simmer. You’ll see it starting to thicken, which is just perfect!
6. Add Cheese and Seasoning:
Now, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and the Italian seasoning. If you like a little spice, add the crushed red pepper flakes here! Let the sauce simmer for another 3-4 minutes to thicken more.
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce and spinach over the top. Let it simmer for an additional 2 minutes to heat everything through.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve warm and consider garnishing with extra Parmesan if you like! This dish is delicious over pasta, rice, or even mashed potatoes, so choose your favorite base. Enjoy your tasty meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s important to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw chicken in the refrigerator overnight or in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for quicker results. Pat it dry before seasoning to ensure it cooks evenly.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or tofu. You can also add extra veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for more flavor and texture. Just sauté them similarly to how you would with the chicken!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can add a splash of cream or chicken broth to refresh the sauce as it reheats.
What Should I Serve with Creamy Chicken Florentine?
This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up the creamy sauce. For a lighter option, consider serving it over a bed of fresh greens or with roasted vegetables on the side!
