One-Pan Chicken Florentine Dinner | YumAndJoy

One-Pan Chicken Florentine Dinner

This One-Pan Chicken Florentine recipe is a quick and comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights. Juicy chicken breasts are cooked in a creamy Parmesan sauce with fresh spinach, creating a flavorful dinner that pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • One-Pan Simplicity: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
  • Rich and Creamy: The heavy cream and Parmesan sauce make it irresistible.
  • Customizable: Pair with your favorite sides or add extra veggies.
  • Gluten-Free: Naturally free of gluten, making it suitable for dietary needs.

Ingredients

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

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

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Season the chicken breasts on both sides with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Spinach

  1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

  1. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  2. Add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

  1. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Let them simmer for 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  2. Serve hot with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

  • Protein Swap: Use boneless chicken thighs, shrimp, or turkey cutlets instead of chicken breasts.
  • Veggie Boost: Add mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichoke hearts for extra flavor and nutrition.
  • Cheese Options: Substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Asiago.
  • Lighter Option: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream.
  • Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving as it may cause the sauce to separate.
  • Freezing: The sauce may not freeze well due to the cream, but you can freeze the chicken separately and make fresh sauce when serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

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

2. What’s the best way to ensure the chicken stays juicy?

Sear the chicken over medium-high heat and avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F.

3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the butter with olive oil, the heavy cream with coconut cream, and omit the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.

4. What can I serve with this dish?

Serve it over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or with a side of roasted vegetables.

5. How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?

Let the sauce simmer for a few extra minutes, or whisk in a slurry of 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water.

6. Can I add white wine to the sauce?

Yes, deglaze the skillet with 1/4 cup white wine after sautéing the garlic for added depth of flavor.

7. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, simply add the cooked chicken to the sauce to warm through, but note that the flavor might not be as rich as freshly seared chicken.

8. How do I make this recipe keto-friendly?

It’s already keto-friendly! Serve with zoodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta or bread.

9. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, store separately, and reheat gently before serving.

10. What if I don’t have chicken broth?

You can use vegetable broth, water with a bouillon cube, or even white wine as a substitute.

Conclusion

One-Pan Chicken Florentine Dinner is a quick, creamy, and flavorful recipe that’s perfect for busy nights or when you want something comforting without the hassle. Pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal, and enjoy a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
One-Pan Chicken Florentine Dinner

One-Pan Chicken Florentine Dinner


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: asma
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This One-Pan Chicken Florentine recipe is a quick and comforting dinner made with tender chicken breasts, fresh spinach, and a creamy Parmesan sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a gluten-free dish that pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Meat:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Produce:

  • 6 cups fresh spinach
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)

Canned Goods:

  • 1 cup chicken broth

Baking & Spices:

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)

Oils & Vinegars:

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Dairy:

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 cup heavy cream

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken:
    • Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  2. Sear the Chicken:
    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Sear the chicken breasts for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté the Garlic and Spinach:
    • In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
    • Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
    • Toss in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2–3 minutes.
  4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
    • Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
    • Stir in the heavy cream and cook for 2–3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
  5. Combine and Serve:
    • Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the creamy spinach sauce over the top, and simmer for 2 minutes to heat through.
    • Serve hot with your choice of pasta, rice, or crusty bread.

Notes

  • Add grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce for an extra rich flavor.
  • For a low-carb option, serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
0 0 votes
Article Rating
Subscribe
Notify of
guest
0 Comments
Oldest
Newest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments