Chicken Florentine Recipe

There’s just something magical about indulging in a comforting Chicken Florentine Recipe—especially when the savory seared chicken meets a blanket of silky spinach-Parmesan sauce. This easy Italian-inspired dinner tastes like a restaurant treat, yet it comes together with simple, everyday ingredients in only 30 minutes. Whether you’re trying to impress someone special or simply craving a cozy night in, this recipe always delivers creamy, crowd-pleasing satisfaction with a pop of green freshness. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to add this Chicken Florentine Recipe to your regular rotation!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how a few fresh staples and pantry classics create such deep flavors and luscious textures in this dish. Every component in this Chicken Florentine Recipe adds something unique—bold flavor, creaminess, or gorgeous color—so don’t skip a thing!

• Chicken Breasts: Lean and tender, they soak up all the lovely sauce and become irresistibly juicy when seared just right.
• Olive Oil: Brings a subtle fruity richness that helps brown the chicken beautifully while infusing Mediterranean flavor.
• Butter: Adds a decadent touch and helps develop golden edges during the sear—don’t skimp on this!
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic builds aromatic depth and a gentle kick throughout the sauce.
• Chicken Broth: Deglazes the pan and forms a savory base for the creamy sauce—lower sodium is best so you can adjust saltiness.
• Heavy Cream: The key to the luscious, velvety sauce that’s signature to every great Chicken Florentine Recipe.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parm thickens the sauce and gives a salty, nutty finish.
• Fresh Spinach: Six cups may seem like a lot, but it wilts down to the perfect amount of leafy goodness and adds gorgeous color.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of classic herbs that brightens the dish and amplifies Italian flair.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing and heightening every flavor—taste as you go for best results.

How to Make Chicken Florentine Recipe

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by patting those chicken breasts dry, then sprinkle generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This seasoning step is crucial for both flavor and that gorgeous golden crust. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, stir together olive oil and butter until the butter is melted and bubbly. Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the hot pan and let them sear for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side. You want each piece beautifully browned and cooked through—keep an eye out for that lovely caramelized color! Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside while you turn your attention to the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

Don’t wipe out the skillet; those browned bits are pure flavor gold! Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute. Let the garlic release its fragrance, but be careful not to let it burn. This quick step is a powerhouse, infusing every bite of your Chicken Florentine Recipe with deep, aromatic undertones.

Step 3: Deglaze and Build the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and grab a wooden spoon to scrape up all those tasty bits from the bottom. Let the broth simmer for 2 full minutes—it will reduce just enough for concentrated flavor. Next, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and turns irresistibly creamy, about three to five minutes. The Parmesan should melt in seamlessly, giving your sauce that signature Florentine richness!

Step 4: Add Spinach and Wilt

Pile the fresh spinach into the skillet (don’t worry, it’s going to wilt down fast). Gently toss and stir it into the sauce, watching as it transforms into tender, vibrant ribbons—about two minutes is all it takes. Nothing brightens up this Chicken Florentine Recipe like that pop of green!

Step 5: Return Chicken and Simmer

Nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning plenty of sauce over each one so they get fully coated. Let everything simmer together for another five minutes. This quick simmer allows the flavors to meld and ensures every bite is deliciously saucy and satisfying.

Step 6: Serve and Savor

Once the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is thick, it’s time to plate up! Transfer each chicken breast to a plate or platter, ladle that creamy spinach-Parmesan sauce generously on top, and get ready for rave reviews. The aroma alone will have everyone rushing to the table.

How to Serve Chicken Florentine Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle your Chicken Florentine Recipe with extra grated Parmesan and a little chopped fresh parsley or basil for a colorful, fresh finish. A swirl of freshly cracked black pepper is always a lovely touch, or even a squeeze of lemon if you want a hint of brightness. These simple garnishes make the dish look as incredible as it tastes!

Side Dishes

This creamy, flavorful dish shines alongside al dente pasta (fettuccine or linguine work wonders), fluffy white rice, or crispy roasted potatoes. Don’t forget a loaf of warm, crusty bread for sopping up every last bit of sauce! If you’re looking for something light, pair with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.

Creative Ways to Present

Impress guests by slicing the chicken breasts and arranging them over a bed of buttery noodles, then drizzling with plenty of sauce and a sprinkle of herbs. For individual servings, use shallow bowls so every guest gets both chicken and that signature creamy spinach sauce. Serving family-style in a big skillet or casserole also adds a lovely rustic vibe that invites everyone to dig in!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), let the Chicken Florentine Recipe cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to deepen, so leftovers can be even tastier the next day!

Freezing

Although creamy sauces can sometimes change in texture after freezing, you can freeze this dish for up to two months. Place portions in airtight containers or heavy freezer bags. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best results.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low to medium heat, stirring frequently. If the sauce looks a bit thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore its silky consistency. Avoid the microwave for large portions, as it can dry out the chicken—stovetop is best for that fresh, creamy taste!

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the frozen spinach completely and squeeze out as much excess water as possible before adding it to the sauce. This prevents the sauce from getting watery and keeps your Chicken Florentine Recipe rich and creamy.

How can I make this dish lighter?

To lighten things up, substitute half-and-half or whole milk in place of the heavy cream, and use less Parmesan or a lower-fat version. The sauce will be a bit thinner but still packed with flavor—and perfect if you’re after a lighter take on the classic Chicken Florentine Recipe.

Is this recipe gluten free?

Yes, the Chicken Florentine Recipe as written is naturally gluten free—just be sure your chicken broth and any extras you add (like pasta on the side) are gluten free as well.

What’s the best way to ensure juicy chicken?

Don’t overcook the chicken—sear until golden brown and remove as soon as it hits 165°F internally. Letting the chicken rest while you make the sauce will also help retain all those savory juices, making every bite tender and moist.

Can I prepare Chicken Florentine Recipe ahead of time?

You sure can! Make the sauce and seared chicken up to a day in advance, store separately, and then gently reheat together before serving. This is a fabulous option for dinner parties or busy evenings where you want something special without the last-minute rush.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason this Chicken Florentine Recipe is a staple in my kitchen: it’s quick, absolutely delicious, and brings a touch of Italian comfort to any meal. If you’ve never tried it, I can’t wait for you to experience how a handful of simple ingredients can turn into something truly magical. Give this recipe a spot in your regular dinner lineup and let your taste buds soak in all the creamy, savory goodness!

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