This dish strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and refined dining. The creamy sauce is packed with flavor from garlic, Parmesan, and wilted spinach, while the juicy chicken provides satisfying protein. It’s simple to make in one skillet, requires basic ingredients, and feels like a restaurant-quality meal right from your kitchen. Serve it over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete and flavorful dinner.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt
Black pepper
Garlic powder (optional)
Olive oil
Butter
Garlic, minced
Fresh spinach
Heavy cream
Chicken broth
Parmesan cheese, grated
Italian seasoning or dried thyme
Lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
Red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
Directions
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder on both sides.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
In the same skillet, reduce heat and add butter. Sauté the garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 1–2 minutes.
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Simmer for another 1–2 minutes, then adjust salt and pepper to taste.
Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Simmer for a few more minutes until everything is heated through.
Finish with a splash of lemon juice or red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot.
Add mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms before adding the garlic for extra texture and flavor.
Cheesy twist: Add mozzarella or cream cheese for a richer, cheesier sauce.
Low-carb version: Serve over cauliflower rice or steamed veggies.
With pasta: Pair with fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti for a heartier meal.
Dairy-free option: Use coconut cream and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. This dish is not ideal for freezing, as the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing.
FAQs
What does “Florentine” mean in cooking?
In culinary terms, “Florentine” refers to dishes prepared with spinach, inspired by Italian cuisine from Florence.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, thaw and drain frozen spinach well before adding it to the sauce to avoid excess water.
What’s the best substitute for heavy cream?
Half-and-half or whole milk with a bit of cream cheese can work as a lighter alternative.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free—just ensure your broth and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs work just as well and offer more flavor and tenderness.
Can I make it ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and chicken separately, then reheat and combine before serving.
What sides go well with Chicken Florentine?
Pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread all pair beautifully with the creamy sauce.
How can I thicken the sauce more?
Simmer it a bit longer or stir in more Parmesan or a spoonful of cream cheese to thicken.
Can I add white wine to the sauce?
Yes, a splash of dry white wine adds great flavor—add it after the garlic and reduce slightly before adding cream.
How do I avoid overcooking the chicken?
Use a meat thermometer and remove the chicken when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Conclusion
Chicken Florentine is a comforting, creamy, and flavorful dish that brings together simple ingredients for a meal that tastes far more indulgent than it is. With tender chicken and rich spinach sauce, it’s a classic that fits any occasion—easy enough for weeknights, yet elegant enough for guests. Keep this recipe in your rotation for a satisfying, crowd-pleasing dinner.
Chicken Florentine is a classic, elegant dish featuring pan-seared chicken breasts in a rich, creamy spinach and Parmesan sauce. It’s easy to prepare in one skillet and perfect for both weeknight meals and special occasions.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes
Total Time:30 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Main Dish
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:Italian-American
Diet:Gluten Free
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
5 ounces fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and keep warm.
In the same skillet, reduce heat and add butter. Sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 1–2 minutes.
Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine and simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Stir in Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Simmer another 1–2 minutes. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
Return chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over the top. Simmer for a few minutes until heated through.
Finish with a splash of lemon juice or red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier option.Frozen spinach can be used—thaw and drain well before adding.Add mushrooms before the garlic for extra depth and flavor.For a richer sauce, stir in a spoonful of cream cheese or mozzarella.Best served fresh; reheating may require a splash of cream or broth to restore consistency.
