This Creamy Chicken Florentine is a cozy dish featuring tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich cream sauce. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
Cooking this meal makes me feel like a chef! Pair it with rice or pasta to soak up every drop of that creamy sauce—it’s just too good to waste! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish as they cook quickly and stay tender. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using chicken thighs for a richer flavor, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Heavy Cream: This ingredient creates that luscious sauce. If you want a lighter version, use half-and-half or whole milk, although the sauce may not be quite as thick. Dairy-free options like coconut cream will also work, but it can change the flavor.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients. If fresh spinach is out of season, you can substitute with frozen spinach—just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a tangy sweetness to the dish. If you don’t have them on hand or prefer not to use them, roasted red peppers or even some fresh cherry tomatoes would be tasty alternatives.
How Do I Get the Chicken Just Right?
Cooking chicken perfectly is essential for a great dish. To ensure it’s tender and juicy:
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning. This helps the seasoning stick and promotes browning.
- Use medium-high heat, which allows the chicken to develop color without burning the outside.
- Cook only until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Using a meat thermometer can help avoid overcooking.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep it juicy!
How to Make Creamy Chicken Florentine
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For the Veggies:
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (optional)
For Cooking:
- 1 tablespoon butter
Time Estimate:
This delicious Creamy Chicken Florentine takes about 30 minutes total to prepare, with 10 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes for cooking. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This adds essential flavor to the meat.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. When done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Sauté Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
4. Deglaze the Pan:
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet to deglaze it, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. This adds wonderful flavor to your sauce!
5. Make the Cream Sauce:
Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer on low for about 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Add Spinach and Tomatoes:
Next, add the chopped spinach and sun-dried tomatoes (if you’re using them). Cook for about 2 minutes, just until the spinach wilts and brightens up.
7. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Let everything warm together for another 3-4 minutes so the chicken absorbs some flavor.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Creamy Chicken Florentine is ready to serve! Enjoy it hot, paired with your favorite side like pasta, rice, or a nice crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s important to fully thaw it first. Thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight or use a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for quicker results. Pat it dry before seasoning to avoid excess moisture in the pan.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make Creamy Chicken Florentine dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
What Should I Do With Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them alongside the garlic for a few minutes before adding the chicken broth.
