Creamy Chicken Florentine Recipe

Creamy Chicken Florentine is a rich and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce with fresh spinach. This Italian-inspired recipe is easy to make in under 30 minutes and is perfect for a cozy family dinner or an elegant meal for guests. Serve it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Rich and Creamy: A luscious Parmesan cream sauce coats every bite.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein and fresh spinach.
  • Restaurant-Quality Meal at Home: Tastes like a dish from your favorite Italian restaurant.
  • Versatile: Serve with pasta, rice, or low-carb options like zucchini noodles.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Olive oil
  • Butter
  • Garlic, minced
  • Heavy cream
  • Chicken broth
  • Parmesan cheese, grated
  • Fresh spinach
  • Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper
  • Red pepper flakes (optional for spice)

Directions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
  3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth.
  4. Add Spinach: Stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
  5. Combine Everything: Return the chicken to the skillet, letting it simmer in the sauce for 5 minutes.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve hot over pasta, rice, or with bread.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

  • Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
  • Mushroom Addition: Add sautéed mushrooms for extra depth of flavor.
  • Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
  • Extra Cheesy: Add mozzarella or cream cheese for more creaminess.
  • Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: The sauce may separate when frozen, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
  • Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of cream if needed.

FAQs

What does “Florentine” mean in cooking?

“Florentine” refers to dishes that include spinach, inspired by Italian cuisine.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness.

What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?

Let it simmer for a few minutes, or stir in extra Parmesan or a cornstarch slurry.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

What can I serve with Chicken Florentine?

Pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread are great choices.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best served fresh for the creamiest texture.

How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

Sear it properly and avoid overcooking—use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F.

Can I add sun-dried tomatoes?

Yes! Sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy, slightly sweet flavor to the dish.

How do I make the sauce less heavy?

Use half-and-half or a mix of milk and broth instead of heavy cream.

What wine pairs well with Chicken Florentine?

A light white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Florentine is an easy yet elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With a rich, garlicky Parmesan sauce and fresh spinach, it’s a comforting meal that pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or a simple side of vegetables. Try this restaurant-quality recipe at home and enjoy a delicious, satisfying dinner!

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Creamy Chicken Florentine Recipe

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  • Author: clara
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Pan-Seared
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Description

A rich and elegant dish, Creamy Chicken Florentine features tender chicken breasts in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce with sautéed spinach. It’s a quick and delicious meal, perfect for weeknights or special occasions!


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (halved lengthwise)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 3 cups fresh spinach (about 90 g)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

Instructions

1️⃣ Cook the Chicken:

  • Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F / 75°C).
  • Transfer to a plate and set aside.

2️⃣ Make the Sauce:

  • In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  • Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Pour in chicken broth, scraping the pan to deglaze.
  • Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  • Let simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.

3️⃣ Add Spinach & Finish:

  • Stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted (1-2 minutes).
  • Add lemon juice (if using) and adjust seasoning if needed.
  • Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over the top.
  • Simmer for 1-2 minutes to reheat the chicken.

4️⃣ Serve & Enjoy:

  • Serve hot over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or with crusty bread.



Notes

📌 Extra Creamy? Add an extra 1/4 cup of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese.
🌶 Spicier? Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne.
🧄 More Garlic Flavor? Roast garlic cloves and mash them into the sauce.
🍄 Veggie Boost? Add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth.

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