Creamy Chicken Florentine is a delightful dish that marries tender chicken breasts with a luscious, creamy sauce enriched with spinach and garlic. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at a dinner party. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 450
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fat: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 550mg
Why Make Creamy Chicken Florentine
Creamy Chicken Florentine is not just delicious; it also brings a wealth of nutritional benefits thanks to the fresh spinach. Packed with vitamins and minerals, spinach adds a healthy twist to this creamy dish. Plus, it is highly versatile, allowing for easy substitutions or additions based on personal preferences—making it suitable for any occasion.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Florentine Step by Step
Ingredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for serving
Directions
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it in the sauce.
- Serve hot over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Florentine
Pair this dish with garlic bread for a comforting dinner, or serve it alongside a fresh garden salad to balance the richness. If you prefer a heartier meal, creamy Chicken Florentine is fantastic served over a bed of rice or creamy mashed potatoes, soaking up all that delicious sauce.
How to Store Creamy Chicken Florentine
Leftover Creamy Chicken Florentine can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to three days. For reheating, gently warm it on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of cream to revive the sauce. If you want to prepare it ahead, this dish can also be frozen for up to three months; just make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container.
Expert Tips for Cooking Creamy Chicken Florentine
- Use fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture.
- If you want a healthier version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
- For added flavor, consider seasoning the chicken with Italian herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice before cooking.
- To save time, you can prep the chicken ahead and use rotisserie chicken, just warming it in the creamy sauce.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
Delicious Variations of Creamy Chicken Florentine
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor and color.
- For a vegetarian option, swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or tofu, keeping the creamy spinach sauce.
Creamy Chicken Florentine is a dish worthy of your dinner table. Its rich flavors and creamy texture come together effortlessly, making it a delight to prepare and enjoy. Try this recipe today, and indulge in the comforting taste of this classic favorite.
Creamy Chicken Florentine
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For cooking the chicken
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Adds flavor to the sauce
- 2 cups fresh spinach Use fresh spinach for best flavor
- 1 cup heavy cream Can be substituted with half-and-half for a lighter version
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese For a rich and cheesy flavor
- Salt and pepper to taste For seasoning the chicken
- Pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for serving Choose your preferred base
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it in the sauce.
- Serve hot over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
