Chicken Florentine

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Florentine is the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and slightly earthy flavors. The creamy spinach sauce is made with simple ingredients like heavy cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, which perfectly complement the juicy chicken breasts. It’s a dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to make. Plus, you can customize it by adding other ingredients like mushrooms or artichokes for extra flavor. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a dinner party, Chicken Florentine is sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 6 cups fresh spinach (or 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained)

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup chicken broth

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

2. Make the spinach sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes (if using fresh spinach). If you’re using frozen spinach, make sure it’s thawed and drained, and just sauté it for a minute or two to heat it through.

3. Prepare the creamy sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, and ground nutmeg. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Combine the chicken and sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy spinach sauce over the top. Let everything simmer together for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the chicken to heat through.

5. Serve: Once the chicken is fully coated with the creamy spinach sauce, remove from heat. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Pair with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes approximately 4 servings.

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 20-25 minutes

• Total time: 30-35 minutes

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover Chicken Florentine in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to thin out the sauce if necessary. You can also microwave individual portions, but the sauce may lose some of its creamy texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe. They are a bit juicier and more flavorful than chicken breasts, making for a slightly richer dish. Adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

2. Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, frozen spinach can be used instead of fresh spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the sauce. You can add it directly to the skillet after cooking the garlic.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, Chicken Florentine can be made ahead of time. You can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce, then store everything separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken and sauce together in a skillet over low heat.

4. Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like mushrooms, artichokes, or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for extra flavor and texture. Just sauté them along with the spinach.

5. Can I make the sauce dairy-free?

Yes, to make the sauce dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. Use a dairy-free cheese, such as vegan Parmesan, in place of the regular Parmesan.

6. Can I make this dish spicy?

If you like a little heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also add a finely chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to give it an extra kick.

7. How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken. Alternatively, you can add a small slurry of cornstarch and water (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) to the sauce and cook for another minute until thickened.

8. Can I serve Chicken Florentine with pasta?

Yes, Chicken Florentine pairs beautifully with pasta. You can serve it over fettuccine, spaghetti, or any pasta of your choice. The creamy spinach sauce will make a wonderful topping!

9. Can I use a different type of cheese?

While Parmesan is traditional, you can use other cheeses such as Pecorino Romano, Gruyère, or even mozzarella for a different flavor profile. Just make sure to choose a cheese that melts well.

10. Can I use a different protein?

While this recipe is traditionally made with chicken, you can substitute with other proteins like turkey cutlets, or even fish fillets like salmon or tilapia.

Conclusion

Chicken Florentine is a rich and comforting dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or an elegant meal. The creamy spinach sauce, packed with flavor and a touch of Parmesan, complements the juicy chicken beautifully. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite vegetables and served over rice, pasta, or even on its own for a low-carb meal. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, Chicken Florentine is sure to be a delicious and satisfying choice!

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