Chicken Florentine

by

Chicken Florentine is a rich and creamy dish featuring tender pan-seared chicken breasts smothered in a luscious garlic and spinach cream sauce. Inspired by classic French-Italian flavors, this dish perfectly balances hearty protein with a velvety, flavorful sauce.

I first made Chicken Florentine when I was craving a comforting yet elegant meal, and it instantly became a favorite. The creamy sauce, infused with garlic, Parmesan, and a touch of white wine, complements the tender chicken and fresh spinach beautifully. What I love most about this recipe is how it feels both indulgent and wholesome at the same time.

What’s great about this dish is its versatility. You can serve it over pasta, mashed potatoes, or even cauliflower rice for a lighter option. Add sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of sweetness or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. Whether for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Chicken Florentine is a creamy, satisfying, and elegant meal that’s sure to impress!

Perfect for:

  • Family dinners
  • Dinner parties
  • Special occasions
  • Chicken and spinach lovers
  • Weeknight meals

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why Chicken Florentine will become a regular on your dinner table:

  • Creamy and Flavorful Sauce: The rich, creamy sauce adds depth and complements the chicken and spinach perfectly.
  • Quick and Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, this dish can be on your table in under an hour.
  • Tender Chicken: The chicken breasts are seared to perfection, juicy on the inside with a crispy, golden exterior.
  • Healthy Spinach: Packed with vitamins and minerals, spinach enhances both the flavor and nutrition of the dish.
  • Savory and Cheesy: The melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses bring a savory richness to the dish.
  • Perfectly Balanced Meal: This dish combines lean protein, vegetables, and a creamy sauce for a well-rounded meal.
  • One-Pan Wonder: Everything is cooked in one pan, making clean-up easy and hassle-free.
  • Versatile Side Options: Serve with pasta, rice, or even a simple salad for a complete meal.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress your guests and leave everyone asking for the recipe.
  • Customizable: Adjust the amount of cheese or use different herbs to suit your taste preferences.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 30 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 45g, Carbs: 8g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

For the Spinach Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Garnish:

  • Fresh basil or parsley
  • Extra grated Parmesan

Ingredient Highlights

  • Fresh Spinach: Packed with nutrients and gives the sauce a vibrant green color.
  • Heavy Cream: Adds a rich, velvety texture to the sauce.
  • Mozzarella and Parmesan: These cheeses melt beautifully, adding flavor and creaminess.
  • Chicken Broth: Enhances the flavor of the sauce and adds depth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

  1. Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Make the Spinach Sauce:

  1. Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
  2. Cook the Spinach: Add the chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes, until wilted.
  3. Add Liquids: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir in Italian seasoning and bring to a simmer.
  4. Add Cheese: Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, allowing them to melt into the sauce and thicken.
  5. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and add additional salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning as needed.

Assemble the Dish:

  1. Return the Chicken: Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning some sauce over each piece.
  2. Simmer: Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 3-5 minutes, ensuring the chicken is heated through and coated with the sauce.

Serve:

  1. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh herbs and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve over pasta, rice, or with a side salad.

How to Serve

Here are 9 serving suggestions for Chicken Florentine:

  • Over Pasta: Serve with fettuccine or penne for a classic pairing.
  • With Rice: A bed of rice is the perfect base for soaking up the creamy sauce.
  • With Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted carrots, asparagus, or zucchini for a complete meal.
  • For a Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly version.
  • With Garlic Bread: Perfect for mopping up the extra creamy sauce.
  • As a Sandwich: Use leftover chicken and sauce for a delicious sandwich or wrap.
  • With Mashed Potatoes: A creamy mashed potato side will complement the dish beautifully.
  • For Meal Prep: Make extra and pack into containers for a delicious lunch throughout the week.
  • With a Simple Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.

Additional Tips

  • Pound the Chicken: For even cooking, gently pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking.
  • Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach will yield the best texture and flavor in the sauce.
  • Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the cream further, or add a splash of milk to thin it.
  • Don’t Overcook the Chicken: To keep the chicken juicy, don’t overcook it in the skillet—use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
  • Freeze Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Recipe Variations

  • Chicken Florentine with Mushrooms: Add sautéed mushrooms to the spinach sauce for extra flavor and texture.
  • Low-Fat Version: Use light cream or half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter option.
  • Spicy Chicken Florentine: Add red pepper flakes or a touch of cayenne pepper for a little heat.
  • With Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet and tangy twist.
  • Gluten-Free: Serve with gluten-free pasta or rice for a gluten-free meal.
  • Chicken Florentine with Beef Bacon: Add crumbled beef bacon to the sauce for a smoky depth of flavor.
  • Vegan Option: Use plant-based chicken and non-dairy cream for a vegan version of this dish.
  • Lemon Chicken Florentine: Add a splash of lemon juice to the sauce for a fresh, zesty flavor.
  • Herb-Infused Sauce: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or tarragon to the sauce for an aromatic boost.

Special Equipment

  • Large Skillet: For searing the chicken and making the sauce in one pan.
  • Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked.
  • Tongs: To easily flip the chicken without piercing it.
  • Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: For stirring the sauce without damaging your skillet.
  • Grater: For freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella cheese.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use frozen spinach?
    Yes, frozen spinach can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess water in the sauce.
  2. How long can I store the leftovers?
    Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
  3. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
    Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier and more flavorful dish.
  4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
    The chicken can be prepared and the sauce made a day in advance. Just reheat everything before serving.
  5. What can I serve with Chicken Florentine?
    It pairs well with pasta, rice, or a simple green salad.
  6. Can I use a different type of cheese?
    Yes, feel free to use gouda, provolone, or another cheese of your choice.
  7. How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
    Make sure to cook the sauce over medium heat and avoid boiling it once the cream is added.
  8. Can I freeze this dish?
    Yes, you can freeze the chicken and sauce separately for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop.
  9. Can I skip the cheese?
    Yes, the dish will still be flavorful without the cheese, though it will be less creamy.
  10. Can I add other vegetables?
    Yes, feel free to add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to the sauce for extra vegetables.

Conclusion

Chicken Florentine is a creamy, comforting dish that combines tender, pan-seared chicken with a rich, velvety spinach and garlic cream sauce. The blend of parmesan, garlic, and a touch of broth gives the sauce a deep, luxurious flavor that pairs beautifully with the chicken.

Customize it by adding sun-dried tomatoes for sweetness, mushrooms for earthiness, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. Serve it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up every last bit of the delicious sauce!

I can’t wait to see how your Chicken Florentine turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your delicious creations! And don’t forget to leave a comment letting me know how you made this recipe your own!