Chicken Florentine

There’s something undeniably comforting about a well-made Chicken Florentine. A dish that perfectly combines tender chicken breasts with a luscious cream sauce, enriched by the freshness of baby spinach, it’s a culinary delight that transports you straight to a cozy Italian trattoria. This Chicken Florentine recipe is not just a feast for the palate; it also showcases the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner solution or a dish to impress guests, this creamy, dreamy Chicken Florentine is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

– Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have a restaurant-quality dish ready in no time.
– Rich and Creamy: The heavy cream and Parmesan create a velvety sauce that elevates the dish.
– Healthy Spinach: Packed with nutrients, the baby spinach adds a pop of color and a healthful twist.
– Versatile: Serve it over pasta, rice, or enjoy it on its own for a low-carb meal.

Ingredient Breakdown

• 2 large chicken breasts: The star of the show, providing protein and a juicy base for the dish.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of the chicken and sauce.
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper: Adds a hint of spice to the dish.
• 1/2 cup almond flour or all-purpose flour: Used for dredging the chicken, it adds a slight crisp and helps thicken the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, nutty flavor to the dredge.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the chicken, providing a rich base flavor.
• 1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness to the sauce.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses aromatic flavor into the dish.
• 3/4 cup chicken broth: The liquid gold of the dish, deepening the flavors.
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that complements the chicken beautifully.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Creates a luxurious sauce that coats the chicken and spinach.
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese: For that final touch of cheesy goodness in the sauce.
• 2 cups baby spinach, loosely packed: Adds freshness and nutrition.

Kitchen Gear Checklist

• Large skillet: Perfect for sautéing the chicken and making the sauce.
• Meat mallet or rolling pin: For flattening the chicken breasts to ensure even cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurately measuring ingredients.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the sauce and combining flavors.
• Knife and cutting board: For prepping the chicken and garlic.

Chicken Florentine: From Prep to Plate

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound them to an even thickness of about 1 inch. This helps the chicken cook evenly and stay tender.

Step 2: Dredge the Chicken

In a shallow dish, combine the almond flour or all-purpose flour with 2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Dredge each chicken breast in the mixture, ensuring they are well-coated. Shake off any excess flour.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, carefully add the dredged chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Stir in the Italian seasoning and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 5: Add the Cream

Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir in the additional 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce.

Step 6: Add the Spinach

Add the baby spinach to the skillet and stir until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over them. Let everything cook together for a couple more minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 7: Serve

Plate the chicken, generously drizzling the creamy sauce over the top. This Chicken Florentine pairs beautifully with a side of pasta or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Seasonal Flavor Boosts

• Spring: Add some fresh asparagus or peas for a delightful crunch and vibrant color.
• Summer: Toss in sun-dried tomatoes for a touch of sweetness and depth. You could also try Chicken Spinach Sun Dried Tomato Pasta for a refreshing twist.
• Fall: Incorporate mushrooms for earthiness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• Winter: A sprinkle of nutmeg in the cream sauce adds warmth and coziness to the dish.

If You’re Curious

Chicken Florentine is inspired by the classic Italian dish that features creamy spinach sauce. It’s a wonderful way to incorporate greens into your meal while enjoying the rich flavors of the chicken and cheese.

• Can I use frozen spinach? Yes! Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the sauce.
• What can I serve with Chicken Florentine? This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or even crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Can I make this dish ahead of time? While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead and reheat when ready to serve.
• Is there a way to lighten it up? You can substitute half-and-half for some of the heavy cream, but the sauce may not be as rich.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

If you have leftovers (which is rare because this Chicken Florentine is so delicious), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back the creamy texture. You can also freeze the dish, though the texture of the spinach may change slightly upon thawing.

Ask & Learn

What type of chicken is best for Chicken Florentine?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this dish as they cook quickly and remain juicy. However, you could also use chicken thighs for a more flavorful option.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While Parmesan is traditional, you can experiment with mozzarella or even goat cheese for a unique twist.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

You can easily make your own blend with equal parts dried oregano, basil, and thyme, along with some garlic powder for added flavor.

More from the Kitchen

• Creamy Spinach Alfredo Penne – A deliciously creamy pasta dish that’s perfect for any night of the week.
• Chicken Spinach Sun Dried Tomato Pasta – A fresh and flavorful option that combines chicken and spinach with the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes.

Time to Try It

Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to whip up this delightful Chicken Florentine. It’s a dish that not only satisfies your taste buds but also warms your heart. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, it’s bound to become one of your go-to recipes. Enjoy the process of cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience with family and friends. Happy cooking!

Share on Pinterest