Chicken Florentine is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a creamy spinach sauce, creating a symphony of flavors in every bite. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions when you want to impress your family or guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare! This classic Italian-inspired meal takes only about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal choice for busy cooks who still crave something delicious. With its vibrant green spinach and rich sauce, Chicken Florentine not only tastes amazing but also offers a visually appealing presentation that will make your dining experience feel gourmet. This dish pairs beautifully with rice or pasta, allowing you to customize it based on your preference. Let’s dive into why this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Florentine

• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
• Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners

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Ingredients for Chicken Florentine

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding
• Fresh Spinach: Use about four cups of fresh spinach; it wilts down quickly and adds great flavor and color
• Cream Cheese: Choose full-fat cream cheese for a rich texture that enhances the sauce’s creaminess
• Garlic: Use fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor; minced garlic brings out the taste beautifully
• Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth helps control saltiness while providing depth to the sauce

For the Sauce:

• Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese adds a nutty flavor; be sure to use freshly grated for optimal results

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Chicken Florentine

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray so that the chicken does not stick.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Season the boneless skinless chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This will enhance their flavor during cooking.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once hot, sear the chicken breasts for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Cook Spinach and Garlic

In the same skillet over medium heat, add minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant. Then add fresh spinach and cook until wilted—this should take around two minutes.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

Stir in cream cheese and chicken broth into the skillet with spinach. Mix well until smooth and creamy. Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and combined.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet with the sauce. Spoon some of the mixture over each breast before transferring everything to the preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until fully cooked through.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
• Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
• Add Extra Flavor: Consider adding herbs like thyme or basil into your sauce for an extra layer of flavor

How to Serve Chicken Florentine

This Chicken Florentine is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
• Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Cook the chicken and let it cool for about 15 minutes before storing in an airtight container. The sauce can be made a day ahead; simply store it in a separate container in the refrigerator.
• Storing: Leftovers should be stored in airtight containers. Chicken Florentine will stay fresh for up to three days in the fridge. For longer storage, consider freezing it, where it can last up to three months.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the Chicken Florentine in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of broth or water as needed to prevent sticking. Heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave it on medium power for about 2-3 minutes.

Suggestions for Chicken Florentine

Avoid Overcooking the Chicken

One of the most common mistakes when preparing Chicken Florentine is overcooking the chicken. When you cook the chicken breast for too long, it can become dry and tough. To ensure juicy and tender chicken, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The ideal temperature is 165°F (75°C). Cooking at medium to medium-high heat allows for even cooking without drying out the meat. Remember to let the chicken rest after cooking; this helps retain its juices and enhances flavor.

Skipping Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is crucial for a delightful Chicken Florentine. Many cooks make the mistake of opting for frozen spinach or pre-packaged sauces. Fresh spinach not only provides better flavor but also retains more nutrients. If you can, go for high-quality, fresh herbs as well. They elevate your dish and create a vibrant presentation that frozen options can’t match. Take the time to wash and prepare your ingredients properly; this step makes all the difference in taste.

Ignoring Seasoning

Seasoning is key to bringing out the flavors in any dish, including Chicken Florentine. Some cooks think that a simple sprinkle of salt will suffice, but this approach often leads to bland results. Instead, season every layer of your dish—season the chicken before cooking, add seasoning to your sauce, and don’t forget about seasoning your vegetables. Freshly cracked black pepper, garlic powder, and even a hint of nutmeg can enhance your dish significantly. Taste as you go to adjust flavors accordingly.

Neglecting Presentation

Presentation matters when serving Chicken Florentine. A common error is to serve it straight from the pan without any thought to plating. Take a few extra minutes to arrange your dish beautifully; this enhances the dining experience. Consider using a white plate to contrast with the vibrant greens of spinach and the golden-brown chicken. Garnish with fresh herbs or a light sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an appealing finish that impresses guests at any gathering.

FAQs

What is Chicken Florentine?

Chicken Florentine is a classic Italian-American dish featuring sautéed chicken breasts served on a bed of spinach in a creamy sauce, often enriched with garlic and cheese. The name “Florentine” refers to Florence, Italy, emphasizing its ties to Italian cuisine. This dish combines protein with leafy greens, making it both flavorful and nutritious. You can customize it by adding other ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms according to personal preference.

How do I store leftover Chicken Florentine?

To store leftover Chicken Florentine properly, allow it to cool down to room temperature first. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking; this prevents bacterial growth. Leftovers can last up to three days in the fridge. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them—just ensure they are sealed tightly in freezer-safe containers or bags. When reheating, do so gently on low heat until warmed through.

Can I make Chicken Florentine ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare certain elements of Chicken Florentine ahead of time! For example, you can cook the chicken breasts earlier in the day and quickly reheat them just before serving. The creamy sauce can also be made in advance; simply store it separately from the spinach until you’re ready to assemble everything together for serving. This approach not only saves time but also allows flavors to meld beautifully.

What sides pair well with Chicken Florentine?

Chicken Florentine pairs wonderfully with various sides that complement its rich flavors and textures. Consider serving it alongside garlic bread or crusty baguette slices for dipping into the creamy sauce. A light salad with vinaigrette balances out the richness of the dish while adding freshness. Steamed vegetables or roasted asparagus are also excellent choices for adding color and nutrition without overpowering the meal.

Conclusion

In summary, mastering Chicken Florentine involves avoiding common pitfalls such as overcooking chicken or neglecting seasoning and presentation techniques. By using fresh ingredients and taking care in how you plate your dish, you elevate both flavor and aesthetic appeal significantly. Store leftovers properly to enjoy this delectable meal multiple times throughout the week or prepare components ahead of time for convenience on busy days. With these tips in mind, you’ll create a memorable dining experience that highlights both culinary skill and genuine love for homemade meals.

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Chicken Florentine

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• Author: Cecilia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Chicken Florentine is a savory Italian-inspired dish that transforms tender chicken breasts into a culinary delight. Paired with a creamy spinach sauce, this quick and easy recipe delivers rich flavors in just 30 minutes, making it the perfect choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The vibrant green spinach not only adds color but also contributes nutritional benefits, while the creamy sauce elevates the dish to gourmet status. Serve Chicken Florentine with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up every drop of deliciousness. Impress your family or guests without spending hours in the kitchen—this dish will quickly become a favorite!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 cups fresh spinach
• 8 oz cream cheese
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking dish with nonstick spray.
2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. In a skillet over medium-high heat, sear the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown; set aside.
4. In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant; add fresh spinach and cook until wilted (about 2 minutes).
5. Stir in cream cheese and chicken broth until smooth; add grated Parmesan and mix well.
6. Return chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over it, then bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 piece (200g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider mixing in herbs like thyme or basil into the sauce. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days in the fridge.