This Creamy Chicken Florentine is a delicious dinner idea! It features tender chicken cooked in a rich cream sauce with fresh spinach and garlic. So comforting and tasty!
When I make this dish, I feel like a chef! It pairs perfectly with pasta or rice, making it a family favorite. Plus, it’s quick enough for a weeknight meal—what’s not to love? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you prefer, you can use thighs for more flavor or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the sauce. If you’re looking to lighten it up, replace half with milk or use coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is ideal, but you can use frozen spinach, just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess water in your dish.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor. If you don’t have it, pecorino Romano works well too; just use less because it’s saltier.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Chicken for This Dish?
Cooking chicken evenly is key to a great texture in your dish. Here’s how to do it:
- Use medium-high heat to get a nice golden sear. Don’t rush; let it cook without moving too much.
- Make sure the chicken gets to 165°F (75°C) for safety. A meat thermometer is helpful here!
- Let the chicken rest after cooking, as it keeps the juices inside and the meat tender.
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 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 1 tablespoon butter
For Serving:
- Optional: cooked pasta or rice
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe should take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavor. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook them until golden brown and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes on each side. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
2. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant and slightly golden. Then, pour in the chicken broth, bringing it to a gentle simmer while scraping up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet.
3. Add the Cream and Spinach:
Next, add the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Stir everything well and let it cook until the sauce thickens slightly, which should take about 3-5 minutes. After that, toss in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until they are wilted, about 2 minutes.
4. Combine and Serve:
Now, return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning some of the creamy sauce over the top. Let everything simmer together for an additional 2-3 minutes to ensure the flavors meld beautifully. Serve the creamy chicken florentine over cooked pasta or rice and drizzle extra sauce on top for that delicious finish!
Enjoy your homemade Creamy Chicken Florentine dinner! It’s sure to be a hit with the whole family!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to do this is to leave it in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method by sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour. Make sure to pat it dry before seasoning.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream with a Lighter Option?
Absolutely! You can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce. However, keep in mind the sauce may be less rich, and you might need to simmer it a bit longer to achieve the desired thickness.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or use a microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. You may want to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! You can make a delicious vegetarian version by swapping the chicken for hearty vegetables like mushrooms or eggplant and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cream or coconut milk for a creamy texture.
