The moment I hear the gentle sizzle of chicken in the pan, I know something delicious is about to unfold in my kitchen. Lately, I’ve been on a quest to elevate my weeknight meals without sacrificing too much time or effort. Enter this Creamy Chicken Florentine—a dish that effortlessly combines tender chicken, velvety cream, and vibrant spinach for a comforting meal that feels special without being fussy.
Picture this: a luscious sauce that clings to juicy chicken, perfumed with the aroma of garlic and a splash of white wine. With a prep time of just 15 minutes, I can whip up this masterpiece even after a busy day. The best part? It’s all made in one pan, which means less time scrubbing dishes and more time savoring the flavors. Trust me, this creamy delight will have your family and friends wondering if you’ve secretly taken a culinary course. Ready to impress? Let’s dive into this recipe!
Why You'll Love This Creamy Chicken Florentine
- This recipe is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to bring a gourmet meal to your dinner table in just 45 minutes.
- The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh spinach creates a flavor profile that is rich and satisfying, sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
- Its versatility means you can pair it with pasta, rice, or a simple salad, making it a perfect fit for any occasion.
- Plus, the stunning presentation of this dish will definitely impress your family and friends, making it a crowd-pleaser every time.
Creamy Chicken Florentine Ingredients
• Here’s what you need for a delicious Creamy Chicken Florentine!
For the Chicken
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – about 6-8 oz each; choose even-sized pieces for uniform cooking.
• Salt – essential for seasoning the chicken; adjust to taste.
• Black pepper – freshly ground adds the best flavor.
For the Sauce
• Olive oil – for searing the chicken, giving it a lovely golden crust.
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced; it brings a wonderful aroma and flavor to the dish.
• Dry white wine – 1/4 cup helps deglaze the pan and adds depth to the sauce.
• Heavy cream – 1 cup creates a luscious, rich sauce that coats the chicken beautifully.
• Chicken broth – 1/2 cup enhances the flavor while keeping the sauce creamy.
• Grated Parmesan cheese – 1/2 cup adds a nutty flavor and richness to the sauce.
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional) – a little pinch elevates the dish with warmth and complexity.
For the Greens
• Fresh baby spinach – 5 oz; adds color, nutrition, and a pop of flavor that balances the creaminess.
With these simple ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from indulging in the comforting goodness of Creamy Chicken Florentine!
How to Make Creamy Chicken Florentine
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Sear chicken breasts in a hot pan with olive oil, cooking until golden brown, about 6-7 minutes per side. Once cooked through, remove the chicken and set aside.
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Sauté minced garlic in the same pan for about 1 minute until fragrant, making sure it doesn’t burn. This step is crucial for infusing flavor into your sauce.
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Deglaze the pan with dry white wine, scraping up any delicious brown bits left behind. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to reduce slightly.
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Combine heavy cream and chicken broth in the pan, stirring well to create a harmonious blend. Bring it to a gentle simmer, thickening the sauce.
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Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, whisking until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. This is where the magic happens!
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Add fresh baby spinach to the sauce and cook for a few minutes until wilted and vibrant. The green color will brighten your dish!
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Return the seared chicken breasts to the pan, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Spoon the sauce over the chicken so each bite is packed with flavor.
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Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using), adjusting to your taste for a perfectly balanced dish.
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Serve your Creamy Chicken Florentine immediately. Enjoy the delightful aroma and presentation—it’s sure to impress!
Optional: Garnish with extra grated Parmesan for an added touch of richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Chicken Florentine preparations are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time! You can sauté the chicken breasts and prepare the sauce (including the garlic, white wine, cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan) up to 24 hours in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their quality. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce in a skillet over low heat, add the fresh spinach, and return the chicken to warm through. This way, you can enjoy a comforting meal that tastes just as delicious with minimal effort, making your weeknight dinners effortlessly gourmet!
What to Serve with Creamy Chicken Florentine?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful sides that perfectly complement this creamy main dish.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The buttery smoothness of mashed potatoes is a classic pairing, absorbing the delicious sauce wonderfully.
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Steamed Asparagus: These tender, crisp spears add a fresh, vibrant element, enhancing both color and flavor on your plate.
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Cheesy Risotto: This creamy, arborio rice dish mirrors the rich flavors of the chicken, creating a comforting, cohesive meal.
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Caesar Salad: The crunchy romaine and tangy dressing contrast beautifully with the creamy chicken, refreshing your palate.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their nutty flavor and crispy edges offer a delightful texture and a healthy counterpart to the rich sauce.
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White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc enhances the subtle notes of the dish, making the meal feel sophisticated and complete.
Pair any of these sides with your Creamy Chicken Florentine to create an unforgettable dinner experience that warms both heart and stomach.
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Chicken Florentine
Fridge: Keep your leftover Creamy Chicken Florentine in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to maintain the creamy texture.
Freezer: You can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. Place it in a freezer-safe container, allowing some room for expansion. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce’s consistency. Stir occasionally until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions: Enjoy this dish with fresh pasta, rice, or a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce when serving again.
Creamy Chicken Florentine Variations
Feel free to get creative with this comforting dish, adding your own flair to make it even more delightful!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a lighter, non-dairy option that still offers a creamy texture.
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Extra Veggies: Toss in chopped mushrooms or bell peppers alongside the spinach for added flavor and a boost of nutrition.
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Herb-Infused: Use fresh basil or parsley for a fragrant twist; stir them in right at the end for lively freshness.
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Spice Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking the sauce to introduce a lovely, warming heat that enhances the creamy goodness.
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Cheesy Twist: Swap Parmesan for a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a different cheesy profile. This variation will melt beautifully and give a rich flavor.
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Pasta Lovers: Serve the Chicken Florentine over your choice of pasta, like fettuccine or penne, allowing those delightful flavors to cling to each noodle.
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Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest as a finishing touch adds a bright, zesty contrast to the creamy sauce, elevating the overall flavor.
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Nutty Addition: A handful of toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds tossed into the sauce gives a delightful crunch and nutty richness that pairs wonderfully with the chicken and spinach.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When preparing Creamy Chicken Florentine, ensure your chicken breasts are at room temperature before searing to achieve a perfect golden crust.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook the chicken in batches if necessary to maintain high heat for even browning.
- Always whisk the Parmesan cheese into the sauce gradually to prevent clumping and achieve a smooth texture.
- Monitor your sauce closely; it should simmer gently, not boil vigorously, to maintain the desired creaminess without separating.
- Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning just before serving for the best flavor.
Creamy Chicken Florentine Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for Creamy Chicken Florentine?
For this recipe, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts weighing about 6-8 oz each. Choosing even-sized pieces ensures that they cook uniformly, leading to that tender, juicy perfection that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
How long can I store leftover Creamy Chicken Florentine in the fridge?
You can keep your leftover Creamy Chicken Florentine in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy it again, I suggest reheating it gently on the stovetop to preserve the creamy texture and flavors.
Can I freeze Creamy Chicken Florentine?
Absolutely! You can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. Simply place it in a freezer-safe container, allowing some room for expansion. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, and reheat it on low heat with a splash of cream or broth to maintain that lovely consistency.
What should I do if my sauce seems too thin after cooking?
If your sauce turns out thinner than you’d like, don’t worry! You can thicken it by simmering it on low heat for a few extra minutes, allowing some of the moisture to evaporate. Alternatively, mix a small amount of cornstarch with water to create a slurry and stir it into the sauce while it simmers, until it reaches your desired thickness.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of with this recipe?
If you or your guests have dairy allergies, you can experiment with non-dairy alternatives for the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. I often use coconut cream or cashew cream for a creamy texture. Additionally, ensure your broth is suitable for anyone with dietary restrictions, such as low sodium or gluten-free options.
How do I know if my chicken is cooked properly?
To ensure your chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach at least 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have one, you can cut into the thickest part of the chicken; it should be white and juices should run clear, without any pink.
Creamy Chicken Florentine
Ingredients
- 2 pieces Boneless, skinless chicken breasts about 6-8 oz each
- to taste Salt essential for seasoning
- to taste Black pepper freshly ground
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil for searing the chicken
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- 0.25 cups Dry white wine helps deglaze the pan
- 1 cup Heavy cream creates a luscious sauce
- 0.5 cups Chicken broth enhances flavor
- 0.5 cups Grated Parmesan cheese adds nutty flavor
- a pinch Nutmeg optional
- 5 oz Fresh baby spinach adds color and nutrition
Method
- Sear chicken breasts in a hot pan with olive oil, cooking until golden brown, about 6-7 minutes per side. Once cooked through, remove the chicken and set aside.
- Sauté minced garlic in the same pan for about 1 minute until fragrant, making sure it doesn’t burn.
- Deglaze the pan with dry white wine, scraping up any delicious brown bits left behind. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to reduce slightly.
- Combine heavy cream and chicken broth in the pan, stirring well to create a harmonious blend. Bring it to a gentle simmer, thickening the sauce.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, whisking until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add fresh baby spinach to the sauce and cook for a few minutes until wilted and vibrant.
- Return the seared chicken breasts to the pan, nestling them into the creamy sauce.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using), adjusting to your taste.
- Serve your Creamy Chicken Florentine immediately.
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