This Creamy Chicken Florentine is a cozy dinner that combines tender chicken with fresh spinach in a luscious cream sauce. It’s rich, tasty, and super comforting!
Honestly, what’s not to love about creamy goodness over chicken? I usually pair it with pasta or rice to soak up every last drop. Trust me, you’ll want seconds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish since they cook quickly and stay moist. If you prefer, you can use thighs instead for a richer flavor or shredded rotisserie chicken if you’re short on time.
Fresh Baby Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a wonderful taste and nutrition. If you can’t find fresh, you could use thawed frozen spinach, but make sure to drain excess water. Kale is another alternative, just chop it smaller.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream gives the sauce its richness. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free option, though it will change the flavor a bit.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds depth and saltiness. If you’re out, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a vegan option) can work as substitutes. Just remember, nutritional yeast won’t melt, but it will add a cheesy flavor!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken can sometimes be tricky, but with a few techniques, you can nail it every time! Start by making sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps lock in juices and gives a nice sear.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- If you have a meat thermometer, it’s handy for checking doneness without cutting into the chicken.
- Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes after cooking. This helps retain its juiciness when you slice it.
Creamy Chicken Florentine Recipe
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
- 5 ounces fresh baby spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Optional: Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Creamy Chicken Florentine dish takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll need approximately 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. Quick and easy, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple step will enhance the flavor. Make sure they’re evenly coated!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and perfectly cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Sauté Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the butter and your minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant—don’t let it burn!
4. Add the Spinach:
Now add the fresh spinach to the pan and cook until it’s wilted. This should take around 2-3 minutes. The vibrant color of the spinach will really brighten up your dish!
5. Make the Cream Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine everything. Let it bubble gently, then add the Parmesan cheese and the dried Italian seasoning. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly, which will take about 3-5 minutes.
6. Combine and Simmer:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the creamy sauce over them. Let everything simmer together for another 2-3 minutes to warm through—this will really bring all those flavors together!
7. Final Touches:
Taste the sauce for seasoning and add more salt, pepper, or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of spice. It’s all about your preference!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your dish with some chopped fresh parsley for a lovely presentation. Serve hot, and enjoy your creamy chicken florentine with pasta, rice, or crusty bread. You’re in for a delicious treat! 😊
FAQ for Creamy Chicken Florentine
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to thaw is to leave them in the fridge overnight or place them in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for quicker results.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. For a non-dairy version, try using coconut cream or cashew cream, though it will alter the flavor a bit.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if necessary.
What Can I Serve with Creamy Chicken Florentine?
This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. You could also serve it alongside a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal!
