Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Chicken Florentine is a rich and comforting dish featuring tender chicken breasts smothered in a luscious garlic-Parmesan cream sauce with sautéed spinach. This classic Italian-American favorite is perfect for an elegant dinner or a cozy weeknight meal. With its creamy texture, savory flavor, and simple preparation, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

ingredients

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

chicken breastsspinachgarliconionsheavy creamParmesan cheesebutterolive oilchicken brothfloursaltblack pepperItalian seasoning

directions

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

In the same skillet, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant and translucent.

Add flour and stir to create a roux, cooking for about 1 minute.

Slowly whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring until the sauce begins to thicken.

Stir in Parmesan cheese and allow it to melt into the sauce.

Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted.

Return the chicken to the pan, spoon sauce over the top, and simmer for a few minutes to meld flavors.

Serve hot, optionally with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 25 minutesTotal time: 35 minutes

Variations

Use boneless chicken thighs for a juicier alternative.

Add mushrooms for extra depth and texture.

Substitute kale for spinach if preferred.

Incorporate a splash of white wine for added richness.

Top with mozzarella and broil for a cheesy finish.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.Avoid freezing as the cream sauce may separate when thawed.

FAQs

What does “Florentine” mean in cooking?

It refers to dishes made with spinach, typically combined with a creamy sauce.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, just thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding to the sauce.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

It can be made keto by omitting the flour or using a low-carb thickener.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast, though the flavor will change.

What sides go well with Chicken Florentine?

Try pasta, mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or a green salad.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, but add it at the end to warm through without overcooking.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer longer or add a bit more flour during the roux stage.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch instead of regular flour.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes, prepare the sauce and chicken separately, then combine and reheat before serving.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Florentine is a timeless dish that brings together tender chicken, earthy spinach, and a luxurious cream sauce for a flavorful and elegant meal. Whether you’re impressing guests or just indulging in something cozy, this recipe is sure to satisfy every time.