There’s something undeniably comforting about a creamy dish that warms you from the inside out. Picture this: tender chicken bathing in a velvety cream sauce, mixed with fresh spinach, ready to be embraced by your favorite pasta. That’s exactly what my Creamy Chicken Florentine delivers—a quick yet indulgent meal that feels like a gourmet experience without the fuss.
After a busy day, being able to serve up this delightful dish in just 30-35 minutes is a game changer. This recipe not only satisfies those creamy cravings but also allows for versatility. Have chicken thighs on hand or looking for a vegetarian alternative? No problem! You can even swap in seafood like shrimp or salmon for a different twist.
Join me in creating this warm hug of a dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests with your culinary skills. Let’s turn simple ingredients into something unforgettable!
Why is Chicken Florentine a must-try?
Quick and Easy: Perfect for weeknight dinners, this recipe comes together in just 30-35 minutes, making it a go-to for busy afternoons.
Creamy Indulgence: The rich cream sauce enveloping the tender chicken and spinach offers an amazing flavor explosion that will please everyone at the table.
Versatile Options: Whether you’re looking for a meat, seafood, or vegetarian dish, you can easily customize your meal with chicken thighs, tofu, or shrimp.
Impressive Presentation: Serve it over pasta or alongside crusty bread, and watch your guests marvel at the beautiful dish you’ve created.
Chicken Florentine Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to create this delightful dish that brings the essence of comfort food to your table.
For the Chicken
- Chicken Breasts – The main protein source, ensuring a tender meal; feel free to substitute with chicken thighs for richer flavor or tofu for a vegetarian delight.
For the Sauce
- Heavy Cream – This is what gives the sauce its creamy texture; for a lighter option, consider using half-and-half or a dairy-free plant-based cream.
- Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated is the best choice for flavor; replace with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan version.
- Garlic – Adds an aromatic depth to the sauce that elevates the dish.
- Chicken Broth – Used to deglaze the pan and incorporate the flavorful browned bits into your creamy dream.
For the Greens
- Spinach – Fresh spinach is preferred for optimal wilting; if using frozen, ensure it’s thawed and well-drained first.
For Seasoning
- Italian Seasoning – Enhances the flavor profile; this mix brings authentic Italian flair straight to your kitchen.
- Red Pepper Flakes – Optional for those who like a bit of spice; just the right touch to elevate your Chicken Florentine.
How to Make Chicken Florentine
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Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper to enhance their flavor. This step ensures that each bite is well seasoned and delicious.
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Heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat; once shimmering, cook the chicken until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side. Set aside to keep warm.
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Sauté the minced garlic in the same skillet for about 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning. This adds a wonderful aroma to the dish.
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Deglaze the pan with chicken broth, scraping up the flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This step is crucial for a rich sauce.
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Stir in the heavy cream, freshly grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes; allow the mixture to simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
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Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Its vibrant color will brighten up the dish!
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Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over the top, and warm through for just a minute. This helps the chicken absorb some of that delicious creaminess.
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Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot over a bed of pasta or alongside crusty bread to soak up all that amazing sauce.
Optional: Drizzle with a bit of balsamic glaze for an extra flavor kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Chicken Florentine Variations
Explore the endless possibilities to customize your Chicken Florentine and make this comforting dish uniquely yours!
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Seafood Surprise: Swap chicken for shrimp or salmon, ensuring to adjust cooking time for a delightful seafood twist. The flavors meld beautifully with the creamy sauce.
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh for a hearty vegetarian option that carries all the creamy flavors without meat. Marinating the tofu can boost its flavor.
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Dairy-Free Dream: Use a plant-based cream instead of heavy cream for a creamy texture. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan, making it vegan-friendly without compromising taste.
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Greens Galore: Feel free to substitute spinach with kale or arugula. Each green brings a unique flavor while still marrying well with the creamy sauce. Experiment for a fresh twist!
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Extra Flavor Boost: Add sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts to the sauce for an Italian-inspired shift that elevates your Chicken Florentine into a gourmet dish.
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Seasonal Ingredients: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like asparagus or zucchini for a touch of freshness. They not only add texture but also brighten up your dish visually.
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Heat It Up: Increase the red pepper flakes for an extra zesty kick, or add diced jalapeños for a southern-inspired flair. Make it spicy according to your preference!
Each variation offers a wonderful opportunity to savor the creamy goodness in new ways, ensuring that your Chicken Florentine can always bring excitement to your table!
What to Serve with Creamy Chicken Florentine?
There’s nothing like creating a full meal that complements the rich and creamy goodness of your chicken dish.
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Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavor of warm bread is perfect for soaking up every drop of your delicious sauce.
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Steamed Asparagus: Bright and crisp, asparagus adds a lovely crunch and earthy flavor that balances the creamy sauce beautifully.
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Lemon Herb Rice: The zesty brightness from the lemon, combined with fragrant herbs, brings a delightful contrast to the richness of the Chicken Florentine.
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Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad with crunchy romaine and creamy dressing adds a great textural and flavor contrast to your meal.
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Creamy Polenta: The creamy softness of polenta hugs the chicken delightfully, allowing you to enjoy every decadent bite.
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Roasted Veggies: A medley of roasted vegetables brings sweetness and freshness that pairs wonderfully with the savory chicken.
Pair these delightful options with your Chicken Florentine, and you’ve got a meal that’s not only hearty but also spectacularly satisfying!
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Chicken Florentine preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Simply season and sauté the chicken, then store it in an airtight container. For the sauce, cook garlic, deglaze with chicken broth, and stir in the cream and cheese, then refrigerate the mixture. To maintain that velvety texture, reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop before adding the chicken and spinach. When you’re ready to serve, simply warm everything through and enjoy a hearty dinner with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Florentine
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain optimal texture, store the sauce and chicken separately if possible.
Freezer: Place Chicken Florentine in freezer-safe containers, and it will keep well for up to 2 months. Ensure it cools completely before sealing tight.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth for creaminess, ensuring your Chicken Florentine stays delicious.
Avoiding Texture Loss: Be cautious not to overheat; gently warming will preserve the sauce’s velvety texture and the chicken’s tenderness.
Expert Tips for Chicken Florentine
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Don’t Rush Cooking: Allow chicken to cook thoroughly without crowding the skillet. This ensures even browning and prevents it from being dry.
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Deglaze is Key: Remember to deglaze the pan with broth; this step brings depth to your creamy Chicken Florentine sauce.
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Check Creaminess: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to reach your desired consistency without compromising flavor.
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Spice It Up: Adjust red pepper flakes based on preference; start with little if unsure, as you can always add more later to suit your taste.
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Store Wisely: To keep leftovers fresh, store the chicken and sauce separately; reheat gently for the best texture and flavor.
Chicken Florentine Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Chicken Florentine?
For Chicken Florentine, I recommend using chicken breasts for their tenderness, but chicken thighs also add an extra layer of flavor. If you prefer a vegetarian option, tofu works well and absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully.
How should I store leftover Chicken Florentine?
Store your leftover Chicken Florentine in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the best results, store the chicken and sauce separately to prevent the chicken from getting soggy.
Can I freeze Chicken Florentine?
Absolutely! To freeze your Chicken Florentine, allow it to cool completely and then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to maintain its creamy texture.
What if my sauce is too thick?
If your creamy sauce is too thick, simply add a splash of chicken broth or cream while reheating. Stir it in until you reach your desired consistency. This will help restore the velvety texture that makes Chicken Florentine so delightful.
Are there any dietary considerations for Chicken Florentine?
Yes, if you’re accommodating dietary restrictions, consider using plant-based cream and nutritional yeast instead of heavy cream and Parmesan for a dairy-free version. Also, check that your chicken broth is suitable for your dietary needs, particularly if you’re serving individuals with specific allergies or dietary restrictions.
How long will Chicken Florentine last in the refrigerator?
Chicken Florentine will last for about 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator when stored properly. Remember to keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and flavor.
Chicken Florentine: Quick, Creamy Comfort Food in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper to enhance their flavor.
- Heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat; cook the chicken until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side. Set aside.
- Sauté minced garlic in the same skillet for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Deglaze the pan with chicken broth, scraping up the browned bits.
- Stir in heavy cream, freshly grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes; let simmer for 3-5 minutes until sauce thickens.
- Add chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over the top, and warm through for just a minute.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot over pasta or with crusty bread.