Chicken Florentine Recipe Creamy Spinach Garlic Sauce

Name: Chicken Florentine Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 large chicken breasts, cut in half lengthwise; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt, to taste; Pepper, to taste; Flour for dredging (amount as needed to coat the chicken); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter, divided; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup dry white wine; 1/4 cup chicken broth; 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups loosely packed fresh baby spinach; 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

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Why You’ll Love This Chicken Florentine Recipe

This Chicken Florentine recipe is a simple yet delicious meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Imagine tender chicken smothered in a creamy garlic sauce with fresh spinach that adds a burst of color and nutrition. It’s quick to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty without spending hours cooking.

One big reason you’ll enjoy this dish is its ease. You can have it on the table in about 30 minutes, ideal for home cooks who want good food fast. Plus, it packs in health benefits from ingredients like chicken and spinach, helping you feel good about what you’re eating.

The flavors really stand out, thanks to that rich garlic sauce, and it’s super versatile too. You can tweak it for different diets, which makes it a hit for families with varied tastes. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special and why it’s worth trying tonight.

When you make this recipe, you’re getting a meal that’s not only tasty but also adaptable. For instance, if you’re watching your calories, you can use lighter swaps while keeping the core flavors intact. It’s all about making cooking fun and straightforward, so you can focus on enjoying the meal with your loved ones.

This recipe serves four people, making it great for family dinners or meal prep. The combination of creamy texture and fresh veggies keeps things balanced and exciting. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, this dish will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen.

Key Benefits and Features

Ease of preparation: Designed for quick cooking, this recipe uses simple steps so anyone can handle it. No fancy tools needed just basic kitchen gear and fresh ingredients.
Health benefits: Loaded with lean chicken and spinach, it provides protein and vitamins that support your daily nutrition. It’s a smart choice for those aiming for balanced meals.
Versatility: Easy to modify for gluten-free or vegan options, making it flexible for different dietary needs. You can swap ingredients without losing the dish’s charm.
Distinctive flavor: The creamy garlic sauce and fresh spinach create a unique taste that’s rich but not heavy. It’s a step above everyday chicken dishes and feels a bit special.

To learn more about similar recipes, check out our roasted red pepper spinach stuffed chicken for another spinach-packed idea.

Jump To

1. Why You’ll Love This Chicken Florentine Recipe
2. Essential Ingredients for Chicken Florentine Recipe
3. How to Prepare the Perfect Chicken Florentine Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide
4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Chicken Florentine Recipe
5. Mastering Chicken Florentine Recipe: Advanced Tips and Variations
6. How to Store Chicken Florentine Recipe: Best Practices
7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Florentine Recipe
8. Chicken Florentine Recipe

Essential Ingredients for Chicken Florentine Recipe

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to nailing this Chicken Florentine recipe. This dish shines with its creamy garlic sauce and fresh spinach, creating a comforting meal that’s full of flavor. Let’s break down what you need to make it just right, focusing on precise measurements for the best results.

Start by pulling together the main items from the recipe. These form the base of your creamy garlic chicken with spinach, ensuring a dish that’s both hearty and nutritious. Remember, using exact quantities helps the flavors blend perfectly and the sauce thicken as it should.

Main Ingredients List

2 large chicken breasts, cut in half lengthwise
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
Flour, for dredging (amount as needed to coat the chicken)
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons butter, divided
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup dry white wine
1/4 cup chicken broth
1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups loosely packed fresh baby spinach
1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

This list covers everything required for the recipe, making sure you have all the elements for that classic creamy texture and taste. Each item plays a key role, from the seasoned chicken to the fresh spinach that adds a nice green touch.

Beyond the basics, you can explore special dietary options to fit your needs. For example, if white wine isn’t on hand, try using chicken broth with a bit of mustard for a similar tang. Herbs de Provence can stand in for Italian seasoning if you want a fresh twist. Keep in mind that heavy cream is crucial for the sauce’s texture, so stick with it instead of milk or half-and-half.

Dietary Options

Vegan: Swap chicken for firm tofu and use coconut cream in place of heavy cream.
Gluten-free: Make sure your flour is gluten-free if dredging the chicken.
Low-calorie: Opt for lighter cream alternatives, but remember to maintain the sauce’s consistency.

Adding mushrooms is optional for extra flavor, and if you prefer less wilted spinach, toss it in at the end. This way, your Chicken Florentine stays versatile and delicious for everyone.

How to Prepare the Perfect Chicken Florentine Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide

Getting started with this Chicken Florentine recipe is straightforward and fun, even if you’re new to cooking. Follow these steps to create a creamy delight that’s ready in about 30 minutes. We’ll walk through each part to ensure your chicken turns out tender and the sauce is just right.

First, prepare your ingredients to make the process smooth. Clean and cut the 2 large chicken breasts in half lengthwise, then season them with 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Dredge the chicken in flour for a nice crispy coat that helps thicken the sauce later.

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon of the divided butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side until it’s golden and nearly done. This step locks in the flavors and gives the chicken a great texture.

Cooking the Sauce

Once the chicken is out of the pan, use the remaining 1 tablespoon butter to sauté 3 cloves of minced garlic until it’s fragrant. Pour in 1/2 cup dry white wine, 1/4 cup chicken broth, and 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning, then let it cook until the mixture reduces slightly. This builds a flavorful base for the creamy sauce.

Next, stir in 1 cup heavy cream and simmer for 2 minutes to thicken it up. Add 2 cups loosely packed fresh baby spinach and let it wilt into the sauce. Return the chicken to the pan, cook for 4-5 minutes more until everything is combined and the sauce coats the chicken nicely.

Finally, sprinkle 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese over the top before serving. This adds a cheesy finish that ties the dish together. For external inspiration, check out All Recipes for more sauce ideas.

Step	Action	Tips
1	Prepare and season chicken	Use fresh garlic powder for best flavor
2	Cook chicken in oil and butter	Avoid high heat to prevent burning
3	Make and simmer sauce	Stir constantly for even thickening

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Chicken Florentine Recipe

Making this Chicken Florentine recipe work for your needs is easy with a few smart swaps. Whether you’re going vegan or cutting calories, these changes keep the dish delicious. Let’s look at options for protein, veggies, and more to make it your own.

For the main protein, swap the chicken breasts with turkey cutlets or firm tofu if you want something plant-based. Seitan or tempeh are great for vegan folks, adding that hearty feel without the meat. This keeps the recipe flexible for different tastes and diets.

When it comes to veggies and sauce, try kale or Swiss chard in place of spinach for a different twist. For a lighter version, use almond milk instead of heavy cream, but remember to keep the sauce creamy. Season with basil or oregano to mix things up, and add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor if you’re dairy-free.

These substitutions help maintain the creamy garlic essence of the recipe. For instance, if white wine is out, go for chicken broth with a touch of mustard. Always aim for fresh ingredients to enhance the overall taste.

Mastering Chicken Florentine Recipe: Advanced Tips and Variations

Once you’re comfortable with the basics, take your Chicken Florentine to the next level with some pro tips. These ideas will help you perfect the dish and add your personal flair. From cooking techniques to fun variations, you’ll impress everyone at the table.

Use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken is done at just the right temperature, around 165°F, so it stays juicy. Deglaze the pan with white wine before adding cream for deeper flavors. Experiment with sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers to bring in a sweet note that pairs well with the spinach.

Flavor and Presentation Ideas

For a bit of heat, toss in smoked paprika or chili flakes. Serve the chicken sliced over the sauce, topped with fresh parsley and lemon zest for a bright pop. If you’re prepping ahead, make the sauce separately and store it that way, dinner comes together quickly on busy days.

Adding mushrooms can give an extra layer of taste, but add them early if you want them fully cooked. For more inspiration on stuffed chicken dishes, visit our chicken spinach and mushroom bake.

How to Store Chicken Florentine Recipe: Best Practices

Storing your Chicken Florentine properly keeps it fresh and tasty for later. Follow these tips to enjoy leftovers without losing quality. It’s all about simple steps to maintain that creamy goodness.

Put leftovers in airtight containers and keep them in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the chicken and sauce separately in freezer-safe bags, lasting up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight.

Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave at medium power to keep the texture nice. Portion into single servings for easy meals during the week, so you always have something quick and delicious.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Florentine Recipe

What ingredients do I need to make Chicken Florentine?

To make Chicken Florentine, you will need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, fresh spinach, garlic, heavy cream or half-and-half, grated Parmesan cheese, olive oil or butter, salt, pepper, and optionally, lemon juice for brightness. Some recipes also include shallots or onions for extra flavor. These ingredients combine to create a creamy, savory sauce served over lightly sautéed chicken and spinach.

How do I cook Chicken Florentine so the chicken stays tender?

To keep chicken tender, pound the breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking. Sear the chicken over medium-high heat just until golden, about 3-4 minutes per side. Avoid overcooking by finishing the chicken in the sauce on low heat or briefly baking it after searing. Using a meat thermometer, cook chicken to 165°F (74°C) for safe eating without drying it out.

Can I use frozen spinach for Chicken Florentine?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach when making Chicken Florentine. Thaw the spinach completely and squeeze out excess water to prevent a watery sauce. Adding fresh spinach is traditional and offers a brighter flavor and firmer texture, but frozen spinach works well if fresh is unavailable. Adjust seasoning as needed since frozen spinach can be milder.

What are some good side dishes to serve with Chicken Florentine?

Chicken Florentine pairs well with simple sides that complement its creamy sauce. Consider steamed rice, garlic mashed potatoes, angel hair pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or broccoli also add a fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.

Is Chicken Florentine a healthy meal option?

Chicken Florentine can be a balanced, protein-rich meal when prepared with lean chicken breasts and fresh spinach. Using heavy cream adds calories and fat, but substituting with half-and-half or a lower-fat milk can reduce this. Including nutrient-dense spinach increases vitamins and minerals. Portion control and pairing with vegetables help maintain a healthy meal profile.

Creamy Chicken Florentine Recipe with Spinach and Garlic Sauce