This Creamy Chicken Florentine is a delightful dish featuring tender chicken and fresh spinach in a rich and creamy sauce. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
You’ll love how easy it is to whip up this dish. I just sauté the chicken, toss in the spinach, and add cream—boom, dinner is ready! Perfect for impressing friends or family!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the go-to for this dish because they’re lean and cook quickly. If you want a bit more flavor, consider using chicken thigh fillets instead.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream makes the sauce wonderfully rich. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or coconut cream works well, but keep in mind the texture will change slightly.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is preferred for its bright flavor and beautiful color. You can substitute with frozen spinach, just be sure to squeeze out excess water before adding it to the sauce.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese adds nutty flavor. If you’re dairy-free, use nutritional yeast for a similar taste, or skip the cheese altogether.
Italian Herbs: A mix of dried Italian herbs gives a nice touch. If you have fresh herbs like basil or thyme, feel free to use them for a fresher flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Sauce is Creamy and Smooth?
Creating a smooth, creamy sauce is key to a successful Chicken Florentine. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Cook the garlic just until fragrant, as overcooking can make it bitter.
- When adding chicken broth, scrape the skillet well to incorporate all the flavorful brown bits.
- Stir the cream and cheese in slowly, allowing them to blend completely before adding the spinach.
- Don’t rush the thickening process; let the mixture simmer gently to build that creamy texture!
Lastly, taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning to your liking, and enjoy a delicious, creamy dish!
How to Make Creamy Chicken Florentine with Spinach
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Optional: pinch of nutmeg
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Creamy Chicken Florentine takes about 30 minutes in total—15 minutes for prep and cooking, and then it’s ready to serve! It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner while still being special enough for guests.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance their flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant—be careful not to burn it!
4. Prepare the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth, using a spatula to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan (this adds great flavor). Then, stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, dried Italian herbs, and a pinch of nutmeg, if you wish. Continue stirring until the sauce starts to thicken, which should take just a few minutes.
5. Add the Spinach:
Now, add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until it wilts down, about 2-3 minutes. The bright green color will really brighten up the dish!
6. Combine and Simmer:
Return the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, and spoon the creamy spinach sauce over them. Let everything simmer together for another 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate the chicken topped with the creamy spinach sauce. If you like, sprinkle some extra Parmesan on top for a finishing touch. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Chicken Florentine!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s important to fully thaw it first. You can safely thaw chicken by placing it in the refrigerator overnight or using the quick method of sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based milk alternative, such as almond or oat milk, mixed with a little cornstarch to thicken. For the cheese, nutritional yeast is a great option for adding that cheesy flavor!
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can cook and prepare the creamy sauce in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce if needed.
What Should I Serve with Creamy Chicken Florentine?
This dish is delicious served over pasta, rice, or quinoa to soak up the creamy sauce. You can also enjoy it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a lighter option. Enjoy your meal!
