This Easy Creamy Chicken Florentine is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with fresh spinach in a rich and creamy sauce. It’s quick to make and perfect for any night of the week!
I love serving this dish with a side of pasta or some crusty bread to soak up all that creamy goodness. You won’t want to miss a single drop! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a quick cook. If you need a substitute, thighs can work well too, just adjust cooking time as they may take a little longer to cook.
Heavy cream: This adds creaminess to the dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream. Just be aware that it may not be as thick.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for flavor. If you don’t have it, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a vegan option) can also be used.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is ideal for its vibrant color and taste. You can substitute with frozen spinach, but be sure to drain it well to avoid excess water in your sauce.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the chicken just right is key to this recipe. Here’s how to ensure it’s juicy and tender:
- Start with chicken at room temperature for even cooking.
- Heat the skillet well before adding the chicken. This helps to sear the meat, locking in flavors.
- Cook on medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes per side. Avoid flipping too soon; let it get a nice golden color.
- To check if cooked, use a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (75°C). Alternatively, cut into the thickest part to ensure juices run clear.
Easy Creamy Chicken Florentine
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 5 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil, oregano, thyme)
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Creamy Chicken Florentine recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This will give the chicken good flavor as it cooks.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant, being careful not to let it burn. This adds a great aroma and flavor to the dish!
4. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth. Use a wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This will help develop the flavor in your sauce. Then, stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until it starts to thicken.
5. Add the Spinach:
Add the chopped spinach to the sauce and cook for 1-2 minutes until the spinach has wilted. It adds a lovely color and taste!
6. Combine and Heat:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over the top. Let everything simmer together for another 2 minutes to heat the chicken through and allow the flavors to meld.
7. Final Touches:
Give the sauce a taste and add additional salt and pepper if needed. Finally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
8. Serve:
This Easy Creamy Chicken Florentine is best served immediately. Pair it with pasta, rice, or a side salad for a complete meal. Enjoy your delicious creation!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Chicken Florentine
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method for quicker thawing. Pat it dry before cooking to ensure a nice sear.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of flour to maintain creaminess. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream or cashew cream can also work well.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to freshen up the sauce if needed.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or hearty vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini. Use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth, and follow the same cooking steps for a delicious vegetarian version!
