This creamy Chicken Florentine is packed with tender chicken, fresh spinach, and rich sauce. It’s easy to make and is sure to please everyone at the dinner table!
I love how quick this dish comes together—perfect for busy nights! Pair it with some pasta or crusty bread, and you’ve got a meal that feels special without too much fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for a richer flavor and moisture.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is best for this recipe, but if you’re out, frozen spinach can work too. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess water in the sauce.
Heavy Cream: This gives a rich texture to the sauce. If you want a lighter option, half-and-half or Greek yogurt can be used, though the flavor will be less creamy.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice salty flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a vegan option) can work too.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Golden Brown?
Getting that perfect golden color on your chicken is essential for flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure your chicken is completely thawed and patted dry with paper towels. This helps it sear better.
- Heat your olive oil in the skillet until it shimmers but isn’t smoking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed. This ensures your chicken browns instead of steams.
- Once you place the chicken in, leave it alone for about 5–6 minutes before flipping it. This allows a proper crust to form.
These steps will ensure your chicken is both tasty and visually appealing in this Creamy Chicken Florentine dish! Enjoy cooking!
Creamy Chicken Florentine
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 5 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Creamy Chicken Florentine can be prepared in about 30 minutes. You’ll spend around 10 minutes getting everything ready and cooking the chicken, followed by 15-20 minutes to create the creamy sauce and combine everything. A quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. This will ensure that your chicken has great flavor from the start!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and let them cook for about 5–6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, melt the butter and then add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté these for about 2–3 minutes until they are fragrant and the onion turns translucent.
4. Add the Spinach:
Now, add the roughly chopped spinach to the skillet and cook it for about 2 minutes until it wilts down. This will add a lovely fresh flavor to your sauce!
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Then, add the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat). Allow the sauce to simmer for about 4–5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the creamy sauce over each piece. Let them simmer together for another 2–3 minutes so the chicken absorbs the lovely flavors of the sauce.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve this delicious Creamy Chicken Florentine hot over pasta, rice, or with a slice of crusty bread to soak up all that wonderful sauce!
Enjoy this creamy, flavorful Creamy Chicken Florentine! It’s sure to be a hit!
FAQ for Creamy Chicken Florentine
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to thaw is in the refrigerator overnight, or you can place them in a sealed plastic bag and immerse in cold water for a quicker thaw.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, though your sauce will be less creamy. For a dairy-free option, try coconut milk or a non-dairy cream substitute. Keep in mind that this may alter the flavor slightly.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other veggies such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes. Just sauté them with the onions and garlic for added flavor and nutrition.
