This Easy Creamy Chicken Florentine is a warm hug on your plate! It’s made with tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a yummy creamy sauce that brings it all together.
Honestly, who can resist a dish that looks this good and is so easy to make? I love serving it over pasta or rice—it’s like a cozy dinner party in your home! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you prefer, you can use thighs for more flavor and moisture. Or, for a lighter option, try tofu or seitan for a vegetarian version.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a lovely color and flavor. If you can’t find fresh, you can use frozen spinach—just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding to the dish.
Heavy Cream: While heavy cream gives a rich texture, you can use half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free alternative. Be aware that the flavor will be a bit different.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is a key flavor component. If you’re in a pinch, Pecorino Romano works well, or you can use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free substitute.
How Do I Cook Chicken Perfectly in a Skillet?
Cooking chicken in a skillet can be tricky, especially getting it just right without drying it out. Here are my tips for perfectly cooked chicken:
- Start with room temperature chicken for even cooking.
- Season well with salt and pepper to add flavor from the start.
- Heat the skillet to medium-high before adding oil; this helps achieve a golden crust.
- Cook until golden brown on both sides and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C); use a meat thermometer to check.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
Easy Creamy Chicken Florentine Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 ounces fresh spinach (about 5 cups)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Creamy Chicken Florentine recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at about 30 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts all over with salt and black pepper. This builds flavor right at the start!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown and fully cooked (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). 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 and sauté for about 1 minute. You want it fragrant, but not browned!
4. Add the Spinach:
Next, toss in the fresh spinach. Cook it, stirring frequently, until it wilts down—this should take about 2-3 minutes.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring everything together. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer.
6. Stir in Seasonings:
Now, mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them). Let it cook for another 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Combine Chicken with Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon some of that creamy sauce over them and let everything simmer together for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.
8. Finish with Butter:
Stir in the butter until it’s melted and incorporated into the sauce. This adds a lovely richness!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Your creamy chicken florentine is ready! Serve it over your choice of pasta, rice, or even mashed potatoes. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s important to thaw it completely before cooking. You can thaw chicken overnight in the fridge or in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for a quicker method. After thawing, ensure to pat dry before seasoning and cooking to avoid excess moisture in the skillet.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative to heavy cream, you can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter to mimic the richness. For a dairy-free option, coconut milk works well, though it may impart a slight coconut flavor.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chicken and sauce on the stove over low heat, or place in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even warming. You might want to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to refresh the sauce.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce and add the chicken to warm through. This makes for a quick meal on busy days!
