This creamy Chicken Florentine is a comforting dish that features tender chicken cooked in a rich sauce with spinach and cheese. It’s both filling and tasty!
Cooking this makes me feel like a chef, even if it’s just me in my kitchen. I love serving it over pasta for an extra yum factor! 🍝 Let’s just say everyone asks for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use chicken thighs instead. They add a slightly richer flavor and remain juicy!
Spinach: Fresh spinach is key for the dish’s flavor and color. If you don’t have fresh spinach, you can use frozen spinach—just be sure to thaw and drain it well before cooking.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creamy texture. If you’re looking to cut calories, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce won’t be as thick. I sometimes mix in a bit of cream cheese for extra creaminess!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice salty kick. Pecorino Romano is a great substitute if you want a sharper taste. Nutritional yeast can also work for a dairy-free option!
How Do I Get the Chicken Just Right?
Cooking the chicken perfectly is crucial for this dish. To ensure that each breast is juicy and tender, follow these simple steps:
- First, make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps create a nice sear.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan; if necessary, cook the chicken in batches to maintain that golden crust.
- After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before carving. This helps retain the juices!
Following these tips will help you achieve perfectly cooked chicken every time. Enjoy your cooking! 🍽️
How to Make 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
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious creamy Chicken Florentine recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes on prep, and the cooking will take about 20 minutes. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get the Chicken Ready:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides. This adds flavor right at the start!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. 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 Garlic:
In the same skillet, lower the heat a bit and add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until you can smell the garlic—it should be fragrant but not burnt!
4. Add Spinach:
Next, toss in the chopped spinach. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until it wilts down. It’s beautiful and green!
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring everything together. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer—this is when the magic happens!
6. Thicken It Up:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, making sure to spoon that lovely creamy spinach sauce over the top. Let it all cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully.
8. Serve It Up:
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This creamy Chicken Florentine is delightful on its own or served over pasta, rice, or alongside some crusty bread. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Creamy Chicken Florentine
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thoroughly thaw them before cooking. The best way to thaw is overnight in the fridge or by placing them in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for quicker thawing. Pat them dry before seasoning to ensure a nice sear.
Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! To make it dairy-free, you can use coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative. Nutritional yeast can be added for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Just adjust the quantities to your taste!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave. If the sauce thickens up too much, just add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up.
What Can I Serve with Creamy Chicken Florentine?
This dish pairs beautifully with pasta or rice to soak up the creamy sauce. For a lighter option, consider serving it with a side of steamed veggies or a fresh salad for a balanced meal!
