Introduction
Chicken Florentine is a creamy, comforting Italian dish featuring tender chicken breast in a rich, garlicky spinach sauce. The word “Florentine” refers to dishes prepared with spinach, an Italian staple. This recipe combines juicy chicken breasts with a luscious Parmesan cream sauce and fresh spinach, creating a flavor profile that’s rich, indulgent, and slightly tangy.
Ideal for a quick yet elegant dinner, this one-pan dish takes only about 30 minutes to prepare. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or enjoy a cozy night in, Chicken Florentine is versatile enough to serve with pasta, rice, or crusty bread. This simple recipe brings classic Italian flavors to your table with minimal effort!
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups fresh spinach leaves
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Optional: lemon zest or juice (for added brightness)
Directions
Season and sear the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare the sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
Add liquids and cheese: Stir in the chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping up any browned bits from the pan for extra flavor. Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Add spinach and seasonings: Add the fresh spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted. Stir in Italian seasoning and, if desired, a touch of lemon zest or juice for brightness.
Combine and serve: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes to meld flavors. Serve hot with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
How to Prepare
Chicken Florentine is easy to prepare in just one skillet, making it ideal for busy evenings. Sear the chicken first to lock in juices, then prepare the creamy spinach sauce in the same pan for added flavor. This ensures the dish is both flavorful and easy to clean up afterward. Add lemon for a light, fresh touch, and serve immediately while warm and creamy.
Preparation Time
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings
This recipe serves 4, perfect for a family meal or intimate dinner.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, but thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding to the sauce to prevent it from becoming too watery.
Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce may be slightly thinner. For a thicker sauce, add an extra tablespoon of Parmesan.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Chicken Florentine is best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to prevent the sauce from separating.
What sides go well with Chicken Florentine?
Pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread are all great options for soaking up the sauce.
Can I add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes?
Yes, both make delicious additions. Sauté mushrooms with the garlic, or stir in sun-dried tomatoes with the spinach.
Conclusion
Chicken Florentine is a flavorful, creamy Italian classic that combines tender chicken with a rich, garlicky spinach sauce. This one-pan dish is simple enough for weeknights yet elegant enough for entertaining, bringing warmth and indulgence to the table. Serve it with your favorite sides to enjoy every drop of the creamy sauce. With its easy preparation and comforting taste, Chicken Florentine will quickly become a favorite go-to recipe. Enjoy!
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