This Creamy Chicken Florentine is a warm hug on a plate! With tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a creamy sauce, it’s comfort food at its best. Plus, it’s super easy to make!
Honestly, I can’t resist that creamy goodness! I love enjoying it with a side of rice or pasta. It’s a meal that feels fancy, but it comes together quickly—perfect for a weekday dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe as they cook quickly and stay tender. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using skinless chicken thighs, which also add extra flavor.
Heavy Cream: It gives that rich, creamy texture we love. If you’re watching your calories, you can swap it for half-and-half or a non-dairy milk, but be mindful that the sauce might not be as thick.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a nice sharp flavor. Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano make great substitutes if you don’t have Parmesan on hand. Just avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it won’t melt as smoothly.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is great for a bright pop of color and nutrients! Frozen spinach works too; just be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the sauce.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Creamy Sauce?
The key to a smooth, creamy sauce is to keep the heat at medium when combining your ingredients. This helps the cream and cheese melt without curdling. Here are some steps:
- Sauté garlic gently to avoid burning, which can make it bitter.
- After adding heavy cream, bring it just to a simmer, not a full boil, to prevent curdling.
- Always stir the cheese in gradually. This ensures it melts evenly and gives you that creamy consistency.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of more chicken broth to thin it while keeping that creamy texture.
By following these tips, you’ll have a deliciously creamy Chicken Florentine that everyone will love! Enjoy cooking!
Creamy Chicken Florentine
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 30 minutes in total to prepare this delicious Creamy Chicken Florentine. This includes around 10 minutes for prep work and 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick dish that’s perfect for a weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This will add flavor to the meat.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked and have a nice golden brown color. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat slightly and add the butter. Once it has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute or until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
4. Create a Creamy Base:
Add the chicken broth and heavy cream to the skillet, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic happens!
5. Add Flavor:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese along with the Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat!). Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
6. Cook the Spinach:
Add the fresh spinach to the sauce, stirring it in until it wilts down. This takes about 2-3 minutes and adds a vibrant color and nutrition to your dish!
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over it. Allow everything to simmer together for an additional 2 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once everything is nicely combined, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve your Creamy Chicken Florentine warm, alongside pasta or rice, and enjoy every bite!
Enjoy your delicious and easy Creamy Chicken Florentine!
FAQ
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw them completely before cooking. Thaw overnight in the fridge or place the sealed chicken in cold water for quicker thawing. Always pat dry with paper towels to ensure a nice sear!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cornstarch. For dairy-free options, try coconut cream or cashew cream, but note that they may alter the flavor slightly!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just sauté them along with the garlic before adding the broth and cream for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition!
