Why Make This Recipe

Chicken Florentine is a delightful dish that combines succulent chicken breasts with the rich flavors of creamy spinach and Parmesan. It’s not just a satisfying meal; it’s a culinary experience that elevates any dinner table. This dish brings together the ease of preparation with sophisticated flavors, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can prepare a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.

How to Make Chicken Florentine

Ingredients

4 chicken breasts
2 cups fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes per side. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
Pour in chicken broth and cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and sauce thickens. Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over it.
Serve with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.

How to Serve Chicken Florentine

This Chicken Florentine is best served hot and can be enjoyed with a variety of accompaniments. It pairs beautifully with pasta, making it a comforting and hearty meal. Alternatively, you can serve it alongside fluffy rice or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. A light salad or steamed vegetables can be a refreshing side to balance the richness of the dish.

How to Store

Leftovers of Chicken Florentine can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. If the sauce thickens upon refrigeration, you can add a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring it back to a creamy consistency.

Tips to Make

Ensure the chicken is at room temperature before cooking for even browning.
Don’t skip on seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
For a richer taste, you can add a splash of white wine to the sauce after the garlic for extra depth.
If you’re a fan of herbs, sprinkle some fresh basil or thyme over the finished dish for added flavor and freshness.

Variation

Feel free to customize this Chicken Florentine recipe to suit your taste. You can add sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist or substitute the spinach with kale or Swiss chard. For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding red pepper flakes for a gentle kick.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the skillet to avoid excess moisture in the dish.

Is Chicken Florentine gluten-free?
Absolutely! As long as you serve it without pasta that contains gluten, the dish is gluten-free. Always check that any chicken broth used is also gluten-free.

Can I prepare Chicken Florentine ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Cook the chicken and prepare the sauce, then refrigerate them separately and combine them just before serving. This allows for a quicker meal on busy days.