This Creamy Chicken Florentine is a wonderful mix of tender chicken and fresh spinach in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s quick to make and perfect for a cozy dinner!
I love serving it over pasta or rice for a complete meal. Plus, who can resist that creamy goodness? It’s like a warm hug on a plate! 🥰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are classic here for tenderness. You can substitute with thighs for a juicier option, or even use grilled chicken for a smoky flavor.
Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach adds nutrition and color! If you’re out, try kale or Swiss chard, but note that they might require a longer cooking time.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter alternative, use half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a creamy texture with less fat. Just be careful not to boil yogurt to prevent curdling.
Parmesan Cheese: If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a dairy-free option) can add a similar flavor. Grate it fresh for the best taste.
Nutmeg: This is optional but adds a warm depth to the dish. Skip it if you prefer a more straightforward flavor.
How Do I Get the Chicken Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking the chicken just right can be tricky, but a few pointers can help. The goal is to keep the chicken juicy and nicely browned.
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a good sear.
- Heat the skillet well before adding the chicken; this prevents sticking and creates a great crust.
- Use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken is at least 165°F for safe eating.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking before adding it back to the sauce. This helps retain the juices!
Creamy Chicken Florentine with Spinach
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 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
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or a mix of oregano and basil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Creamy Chicken Florentine takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook. In total, you should plan for about 30 minutes from start to finish. Quick and perfect for a busy weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with a sprinkle of salt, black pepper, and dried Italian herbs. This will help enhance the flavor of the chicken as it cooks.
2. Brown the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are beautifully golden brown and cooked through. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
4. Make the Cream Sauce:
Now, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet, stirring well to combine everything. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer where you see small bubbles forming.
5. Thicken the Sauce:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and the optional nutmeg. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly for about 3-5 minutes, giving it a creamy texture you’ll love.
6. Add the Spinach:
Next, toss in the chopped spinach and cook it in the sauce until it wilts, which should take about 2 minutes. This not only adds flavor but also a pop of color!
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts back to the skillet, carefully spooning the delicious sauce over them. Let everything simmer together for another 2 minutes to meld those wonderful flavors and heat the chicken through.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your creamy chicken with freshly chopped parsley for a bright finish. Serve hot with pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed rice, and enjoy the comfort of this delightful dish!
Enjoy your creamy, comforting Chicken Florentine!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you must thaw it completely before cooking. For a quick thaw, place the chicken in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about 1-2 hours, changing the water every 30 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or milk combined with a bit of cornstarch to thicken it. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut milk or a cashew cream for a similar creamy texture.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just sauté them along with the garlic for a delicious twist on the classic recipe.
