This Easy Creamy Chicken Florentine is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken with spinach in a rich and creamy sauce. It’s full of flavor and perfect for any night!
I love how quick it is to whip up! Just sauté the chicken, add some spinach, and pour in the creamy goodness—it comes together in no time! Plus, it pairs perfectly with rice or pasta! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal because they cook quickly and stay moist. If you’re looking for alternatives, try using chicken thighs for a juicier option or even turkey cutlets.
Spinach: Fresh spinach gives this dish a vibrant color and nutritional boost. If you’re out of fresh spinach, frozen spinach can work too—just be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the dish. For a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or even Greek yogurt (just stir it in at the end to avoid curdling).
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds flavor and helps thicken the sauce. If you’re out, pecorino or even nutritional yeast can serve as a substitute for a dairy-free option.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Stays Juicy?
Getting juicy chicken is all about temperature and timing! Here’s how to make sure your chicken turns out tender every time.
- Heat the skillet well before adding the chicken—this will help to sear it quickly for a lovely golden color.
- Cook the chicken over medium-high heat for the right amount of time. Check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, so it’s cooked through but not overdone.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking—this keeps it juicy as the juices redistribute.
By following these tips, you’ll have deliciously tender chicken for your creamy Florentine dish! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Creamy Chicken Florentine
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. With just a little bit of chopping and sautéing, you’ll have a warm, creamy meal ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. This adds nice flavor to the chicken while cooking!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You want them to be golden brown and fully cooked through. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring regularly until fragrant. Careful not to burn the garlic!
4. Add the Spinach:
Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes, until it has wilted down and reduced in size.
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring everything together. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer—this allows the flavors to meld together!
6. Mix in Seasonings:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and the optional crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat. Allow the sauce to cook for another 3-5 minutes until it thickens up slightly.
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the creamy sauce and spinach over the top. Let everything simmer together for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb some of the delicious flavors.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Easy Creamy Chicken Florentine is ready! Serve it hot over cooked pasta, rice, or creamy mashed potatoes. Enjoy your delightful meal!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Chicken Florentine
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to completely thaw them first. The best way to thaw is to leave them in the fridge overnight, or you can place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for quicker thawing. Pat them dry before seasoning and cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. For a dairy-free option, consider using coconut cream or cashew cream, but keep in mind this may alter the flavor slightly.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’d like to freeze it, do so in an airtight container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally to avoid separation.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or asparagus. Just sauté them along with the garlic before adding the spinach, adjusting cooking time as needed to ensure everything is tender.
