This Easy Chicken Florentine is a tasty dish featuring juicy chicken and creamy spinach sauce. It’s simple to make and brings a delightful flavor to your dinner table!
Cooking this dish is a breeze. I love serving it with some warm bread or pasta. Your taste buds will thank you, and there’s no need for fancy skills—just good food! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe, but you can use chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor and juicier bite. Just remember to adjust cooking times as thighs may take a little longer.
Heavy Cream: To make this lighter, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt. If you choose yogurt, stir it in at the end to avoid curdling. I’ve used both and love how well they work!
Spinach: Fresh spinach is key for that bright flavor. You can substitute with frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess water in the sauce.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a wonderful flavor, but you could also use Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor, too.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken just right can be tricky, but here are my tips:
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Chicken is safe to eat at 165°F (75°C).
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; giving the chicken space allows it to sear properly.
- If you have thick chicken breasts, consider pounding them to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
Following these tips will help you achieve tender, juicy chicken every time!
Easy Chicken Florentine with Creamy Spinach
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Optional: lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and approximately 20 minutes of cooking time. So you’ll be enjoying your delicious Chicken Florentine in about 30 minutes—perfect for a quick dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This step enhances the flavor of the chicken while it cooks.
2. Cooking the Chicken:
Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5–7 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Creating the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, add the tablespoon of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté everything for about 1 minute, or until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt. Then, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well. Add the Italian seasoning, and bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Adding Spinach and Cheese:
Now it’s time to add the chopped spinach to the skillet. Cook for about 2–3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and soft. Then, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and combines into the sauce. If needed, taste and adjust the seasoning with a bit more salt and pepper.
5. Finishing Touches:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon some of the creamy spinach sauce over them. Let everything cook together for another 2 minutes to warm through and blend the flavors.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Easy Chicken Florentine is now ready! Serve it immediately, optionally garnished with lemon wedges for a refreshing touch. Squeeze some lemon juice over the chicken just before eating for extra brightness!
Enjoy your delicious and creamy Chicken Florentine!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Florentine with Creamy Spinach
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Yes! If using frozen spinach, make sure to fully thaw and drain it to remove any excess moisture. This will prevent the sauce from becoming watery. Simply add it to the skillet in place of the fresh spinach.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or milk with a tablespoon of cornstarch to thicken it. For a dairy-free alternative, try using coconut milk or cashew cream, but be aware that they will alter the flavor slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or extra cream to loosen the sauce as it may thicken when chilled.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken and sauce in advance. Cook the chicken and sauce separately, then combine and warm them together right before serving. This will help keep the flavors fresh and vibrant!
