If you are looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Creamy Chicken Florentine Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. It combines juicy, tender chicken breasts with rich, velvety cream sauce bursting with garlic, Parmesan, and fresh spinach, creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply want to brighten up your weekday dinner, this recipe is straightforward, quick, and irresistibly comforting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Creamy Chicken Florentine Recipe lies in its simplicity and quality ingredients. Each one plays a vital role— from the tender chicken breasts providing substance, to the robust Parmesan giving that unmistakable cheesy depth, and the fresh spinach introducing a lovely green vibrancy and earthiness.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose even-sized pieces for uniform cooking and juicy results.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps achieve a golden sear while adding a hint of fruitiness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for building flavor at every stage.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic infuses the sauce with its aromatic, savory punch.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and depth, helping deglaze the pan beautifully.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The star of creaminess that envelops every bite in lusciousness.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Boosts umami and melts into the sauce for richness.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional): Adds a subtle tangy layer, balancing the creaminess.
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach: Wilted gently into the sauce for color and nutrition.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle kick if you like a little heat.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens and lifts the dish’s flavors at the end.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh herbal note and pretty finish.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Florentine Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Chicken to Perfection
Begin by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, then add the chicken. Cook each side for six to eight minutes until beautifully golden brown and fully cooked through—internal temperature should hit 165°F. Set the chicken aside to rest; this step locks in juices and builds a flavor-packed crust.
Step 2: Build the Flavorful Base
Using the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until you can smell that irresistible garlicky aroma. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the skillet to release all those delicious browned bits left from searing. Let it simmer for two to three minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate those flavors.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Spinach Sauce
Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and the optional Dijon mustard for a subtle tang. Allow the sauce to gently simmer for three to five minutes so it thickens just right. Add your fresh baby spinach and cook until wilted, stirring to combine everything evenly. If you enjoy a little spice, sprinkle the crushed red pepper flakes in at this stage for a hint of warmth.
Step 4: Unite Chicken and Sauce
Return the chicken to your skillet, nestling it into the creamy spinach sauce. Spoon generous amounts of sauce over the top before letting everything simmer together for another two to three minutes. This allows the chicken to soak up some of the luscious sauce, making each bite especially moist and flavorful.
Step 5: Brighten and Garnish
Finish by stirring in the fresh lemon juice to add a bright, zesty note that balances the richness perfectly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if you like, giving your Creamy Chicken Florentine Recipe a beautiful, fresh touch before serving.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Florentine Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or a few extra shavings of Parmesan cheese can add an inviting pop of color and an extra burst of flavor. A wedge of lemon on the side can also brighten the experience for those who want to add a little citrus zing personally.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Creamy mashed potatoes or buttery mashed cauliflower are perfect for soaking up that rich sauce. Simple garlic buttered pasta or fluffy white rice complements the meal beautifully, while a crisp side salad provides a refreshing crunch to balance the creamy texture.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, consider serving the chicken sliced over a bed of fettuccine tossed lightly with olive oil and garlic. You can also plate the chicken atop creamy polenta for an elegant twist. Garnish with edible flowers or microgreens to elevate the dish visually—perfect if you’re hosting friends or family and want to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Chicken Florentine keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually meld beautifully overnight, making your next meal even easier and tastier. Just be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to maintain the best texture.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this dish well in advance, it freezes nicely. Transfer portions into freezer-safe containers or bags, and it can last up to three months. When freezing, try to leave out the spinach, or add it fresh when reheating to keep its color and texture intact.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Adding a splash of chicken broth or cream while reheating helps refresh the sauce, keeping it silky and smooth rather than thickening too much.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully and tend to stay even juicier than breasts. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to fully cook through.
Is there a dairy-free way to make this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew-based cream alternative, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. The texture and flavor will change a bit but will remain delicious and creamy.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for large portobello mushrooms or firm tofu. Be sure to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and follow the rest of the recipe as is for a savory spinach cream sauce experience.
How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?
If the sauce is thinner than you’d like, let it simmer a bit longer uncovered to reduce and thicken naturally. Alternatively, stir in a small slurry of cornstarch and water, cooking until it thickens to your desired consistency.
What wine pairs well with Creamy Chicken Florentine Recipe?
A crisp, refreshing white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay complements this dish beautifully. Their acidity balances the creamy richness, making your meal even more enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the comforting harmony of flavors in this Creamy Chicken Florentine Recipe. It’s a dish that feels fancy without fuss, perfect for those moments when you want to treat yourself or share a cozy meal with loved ones. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a staple in your dinner rotation—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
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Creamy Chicken Florentine Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Creamy Chicken Florentine is a delicious and comforting dish featuring tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich, creamy sauce with Parmesan, garlic, and fresh spinach. This easy-to-make skillet meal highlights a perfect balance of flavors and textures, ideal for a weeknight dinner served alongside pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
Vegetables and Garnish
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare and cook the chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté garlic and deglaze skillet: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the browned bits from the skillet to deglaze. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Make the creamy sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and Dijon mustard if using. Simmer the sauce for 3-5 minutes to thicken slightly. Add the fresh baby spinach and cook until wilted, stirring occasionally. Add crushed red pepper flakes if desired for a little heat.
- Combine chicken and sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon some creamy spinach sauce over each piece. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the chicken to absorb the flavors.
- Finish and serve: Stir in the lemon juice for a fresh burst of acidity. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot with your choice of pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Notes
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream.
- Dijon mustard adds depth but can be omitted if preferred.
- Use fresh baby spinach for best texture and flavor; frozen spinach is not recommended for this recipe.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to control the dish’s spiciness or omit for a milder flavor.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or a simple green salad on the side.
