Chicken Florentine is a classic Italian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken breast smothered in a rich, creamy spinach sauce. This recipe is easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special dinners. With its luxurious texture and vibrant flavors, it’s a meal that feels indulgent yet approachable. Serve it with pasta, rice, or crusty bread for a complete and satisfying dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight meals.
Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with fresh spinach for a healthy dose of greens.
Versatile: Pairs well with a variety of sides, from pasta to mashed potatoes.
Crowd-Pleaser: Creamy and flavorful, it’s a dish the whole family will love.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
3 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups fresh spinach
1 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Directions

Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the Garlic and Spinach
- In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2–3 minutes.
Make the Creamy Sauce
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, whisking until smooth and creamy.
Combine and Serve
- Return the seared chicken to the skillet, spooning the creamy spinach sauce over the top. Simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve immediately with your choice of side.

Servings and Timing

Yield: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a keto-friendly meal.
Cheese Swap: Use mozzarella or Gruyère instead of Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
Vegetable Add-Ins: Incorporate mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for extra veggies.
Lemon Kick: Add a splash of fresh lemon juice to brighten up the creamy sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to maintain the sauce’s consistency. Avoid overheating to prevent the sauce from separating.
Freezing: Freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and add more richness to the dish.

2. Can I substitute the heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half for a lighter option, though the sauce may be less rich.

3. What’s the best way to wilt spinach without overcooking?

Cook the spinach just until wilted to preserve its bright color and nutrients.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the chicken and sauce separately. Reheat and combine just before serving.

5. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the chicken broth and Parmesan cheese are gluten-free, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

6. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, thaw and drain the spinach thoroughly before adding it to the sauce.

7. How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Use heavy cream for its higher fat content and avoid boiling the sauce. Simmer gently instead.

8. What’s the best side dish to serve with this recipe?

Pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread pair wonderfully with Chicken Florentine.

9. Can I add wine to the sauce?

Yes, a splash of white wine can add depth to the sauce. Add it before the chicken broth and let it simmer for a minute.

10. How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free cream alternative and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese.

Conclusion

Chicken Florentine is a classic, creamy dish that combines tender chicken with a rich spinach sauce. Quick to prepare and endlessly versatile, it’s the perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or impressing dinner guests, this comforting recipe is sure to satisfy. Give it a try and savor the flavors of this Italian-inspired favorite !