This Chicken Florentine is a creamy and comforting dish featuring tender, juicy chicken breasts in a rich, garlicky spinach sauce. With its Italian-inspired flavors and smooth, cheesy sauce, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Serve it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 large chicken breasts, halved horizontally (to make 4 thin cutlets)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for light coating)
For the Creamy Florentine Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup (120ml) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups (60g) fresh spinach (or frozen, drained)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Chicken
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, and garlic powder.
- Lightly Coat in Flour: Dredge the chicken lightly in flour, shaking off any excess. This helps create a golden crust and thickens the sauce later.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Florentine Sauce
- Melt Butter & Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the minced garlic for 30 seconds, stirring frequently until fragrant.
- Deglaze with Chicken Broth: Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom.
- Add the Cream & Seasonings: Stir in heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer.
- Incorporate Parmesan Cheese: Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese, ensuring it melts smoothly into the sauce.
- Wilt the Spinach: Add fresh spinach, stirring until it wilts (or use thawed, drained frozen spinach).
- Finish with Lemon Juice: Stir in lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
Step 3: Combine and Serve
- Return the Chicken to the Skillet: Place the cooked chicken back in the pan, spooning sauce over the top. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Serve Hot: Serve over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Tips & Variations
✔ Use boneless, skinless thighs for extra juiciness. ✔ Make it low-carb by serving over cauliflower rice. ✔ Enhance with mushrooms for added depth of flavor. ✔ Substitute cream with half-and-half for a lighter version. ✔ Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. ✔ Reheat gently to maintain the creamy texture.
FAQs
What is Chicken Florentine?
Chicken Florentine is a classic dish that features chicken cooked in a creamy spinach sauce. The name “Florentine” refers to dishes prepared with spinach, originating from Florence, Italy.
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes! If using frozen spinach, thaw and drain the excess water before adding it to the sauce to prevent it from becoming too watery.
How do I make Chicken Florentine gluten-free?
Skip the flour dredging and use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce if needed.
What’s the best way to reheat Chicken Florentine?
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up.
What pairs well with Chicken Florentine?
✔ Pasta: Serve over linguine, fettuccine, or penne. ✔ Rice: Pair with white, brown, or cauliflower rice. ✔ Crusty Bread: Ideal for soaking up the rich sauce! ✔ Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, zucchini, or broccoli make great side dishes.
Enjoy your delicious and creamy Chicken Florentine! 🍗🥬
