This Easy Chicken Florentine is a tasty dish featuring juicy chicken breasts smothered in a creamy spinach sauce. It’s like a cozy hug on a plate!
Honestly, who can resist the combination of chicken and spinach with a rich sauce? I love serving it over pasta for a filling meal that feels special even on a weeknight!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish as they cook quickly. If you prefer, you can use thighs for more flavor and juiciness. They may take a bit longer to cook through.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds freshness, but you can substitute it with frozen spinach if that’s what you have. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the sauce.
Cream: Heavy cream gives a rich texture. For a lighter option, use half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind it may be less creamy. You can also try coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan enhances flavor. If you’re out, Pecorino Romano works nicely, or nutritional yeast is great for a vegan option!
Nutmeg: This is optional but adds warmth. If you don’t have nutmeg, a pinch of cinnamon can also enhance the flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Stays Juicy?
Keeping chicken juicy while ensuring it’s properly cooked is key. Start by patting the chicken dry and seasoning well, which helps the seasoning stick and creates a nice crust.
- Cook on medium-high heat for a good sear (5-7 mins), then flip carefully.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer! Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let the cooked chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain moisture.
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Spinach?
Cooking spinach is quick but requires attention! You want to wilt it just enough to retain its vibrant color and nutrients. Here’s how:
- After sautéing the onions, add spinach and stir frequently.
- Cook it for only 2-3 minutes until it just starts to wilt; overcooking can lead to a mushy texture.
With these tips, your Chicken Florentine will not only be delicious but also a satisfying and comforting meal! Enjoy!
How to Make Easy Chicken Florentine with Creamy Spinach Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 5 ounces fresh spinach (about 5 cups, loosely packed)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. It includes time for prepping the ingredients and cooking the chicken and sauce. Quick and delicious—perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick and gives you a nice sear. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor.
2. Cooking the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and cooked through. You can check for doneness by cutting into the thickest part of the chicken to ensure it’s no longer pink. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sautéing Onion and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the tablespoon of butter. Once melted, toss in the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
4. Cooking the Spinach:
Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and stir it around, cooking until it’s wilted—this should take about 2-3 minutes. The bright green color will be a wonderful addition to your dish!
5. Making the Creamy Sauce:
Next, reduce the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine the ingredients. Let the mixture simmer slightly.
6. Combining Cheese and Spices:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese, dried Italian herbs, and nutmeg (if using) to the cream mixture. Stir well, allowing the sauce to thicken for about 3-5 minutes. This will create that rich, creamy texture!
7. Finishing the Chicken:
Now, return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, so they can soak up all the delicious flavors. Spoon some of the creamy spinach sauce over the chicken and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm everything through.
8. Serving Your Dish:
Finally, garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch and serve immediately. This dish pairs perfectly with pasta, rice, or warm crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw it first and drain any excess water. This will prevent your sauce from becoming too watery and ensure the flavors are concentrated.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make the Chicken Florentine dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy cream alternative. For the Parmesan cheese, you can use a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
What Should I Serve with Chicken Florentine?
This flavorful dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it over cooked pasta, rice, or quinoa to soak up the creamy sauce. You can also serve it alongside a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a lighter meal.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore the sauce’s consistency if needed.
