This Easy Chicken Florentine is a creamy delight that features tender chicken and fresh spinach, all bathed in a rich sauce. It’s a simple dish that’s full of flavor!
I love serving this with rice or pasta, as it makes for a cozy dinner. Plus, it feels fancy but is super easy to whip up. Enjoy the smiles at the table! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts make this dish easy and quick. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for more flavor and moisture. Alternatively, try tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version!
Heavy Cream: This gives a rich, creamy texture. You can substitute it with full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option, or use half-and-half if you’re looking for something lighter.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is best for this recipe, but you can use frozen spinach if that’s what you have. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before cooking.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice salty flavor. If you’re out, you can use Pecorino Romano or a dairy-free cheese for a similar effect.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds great flavor. If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder can work in a pinch, using about 1/8 teaspoon for each clove.
How Do I Get My Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, so here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with even thickness: If some areas are thicker, use a mallet to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for faster, more uniform cooking.
- Monitor the heat: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This prevents sticking and allows for a nice sear.
- Use a meat thermometer: Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for fully cooked chicken.
For juicy chicken, let it rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing! This helps keep the juices inside for a flavorful bite.
Easy Chicken Florentine with Creamy Spinach
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Creamy Spinach Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken Florentine takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, making the total time around 30 minutes. You’ll get a flavorful, creamy dish on the table in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple step boosts the flavor of the chicken!
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook until they are golden brown and fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Butter:
Lower the heat to medium and add the butter and minced garlic to the same skillet. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring everything together. Let the sauce simmer for about 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly. It’s starting to look delicious!
5. Add Cheese and Spinach:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce. Next, toss in the chopped spinach and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted. If you’d like, season the sauce with Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes for some extra flavor.
6. Combine and Serve:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon some of the creamy spinach sauce over the top. Let it all simmer together for about 2 minutes to meld those fantastic flavors!
7. Dig In!
Serve your Chicken Florentine topped with that rich, creamy spinach sauce. It pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Enjoy your creamy and flavorful Chicken Florentine! 🌟
FAQ for Easy Chicken Florentine with Creamy Spinach
Can I Use Other Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier option. Just adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave to prevent the sauce from separating.
Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream, and replace the Parmesan cheese with a vegan cheese alternative to keep it dairy-free.
What’s the Best Way to Serve Chicken Florentine?
This dish is best served over pasta, rice, or alongside a crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. You could also enjoy it with sautéed vegetables for a lighter meal!
