This creamy Chicken Florentine is a wonderful dish that combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich sauce that feels like a warm hug! It’s perfect for a cozy dinner.
The best part? It comes together quickly! I love serving it over pasta or rice for a filling meal. You’ll have everyone asking for seconds—trust me, it’s that good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish. If you want a different option, chicken thighs can work too—they’re juicier and add more flavor.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is preferred for its vibrant color and texture. If it’s out of season, frozen spinach is a good alternative. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before using.
Heavy Cream: This gives the dish its creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or evaporated milk, but the sauce won’t be as thick.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds richness. You can substitute with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken Stays Juicy?
Cooking chicken can sometimes lead to dryness, but there are ways to keep it juicy. First, try not to overcook it. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Cooking on medium-high heat helps achieve a nice sear while keeping the inside moist.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute.
- Consider pounding the chicken to an even thickness before cooking; it helps in cooking evenly.
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 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Creamy Chicken Florentine recipe will take around 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked throughout. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the butter, minced garlic, and chopped onion. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the onions are translucent. This will add wonderful flavor to your dish!
4. Add the Spinach:
Next, add the fresh spinach leaves to the skillet. Stir and cook until the spinach is wilted, which should take just a couple of minutes.
5. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring everything together. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
6. Stir in Cheese and Nutmeg:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese and the optional nutmeg to the skillet, mixing well. Let the sauce thicken slightly over the next 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Combine Chicken with Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning creamy sauce and spinach over the top. Simmer for an additional 2 minutes to warm the chicken through.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finish your dish by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm over your choice of cooked pasta, rice, or alongside some crusty bread. Enjoy every bite of your delicious and creamy Chicken Florentine!
FAQ for Creamy Chicken Florentine
Can I Use Fresh or Frozen Spinach for This Recipe?
You can use either! Fresh spinach provides a nice texture and flavor, but frozen spinach is a convenient alternative. Just be sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the skillet.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lower-calorie option, you can use half-and-half or evaporated milk. Coconut cream is also a great dairy-free option that will still give you a creamy texture!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat gently on the stove until warmed through.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
