FREE DINNER EBOOK! Get your copy!

Savory Chicken Florentine Easy and Flavorful Recipe

by on November 23, 2024

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Are you ready to elevate your dinner game? Chicken Florentine is a simple, tasty dish that brings comfort and flavor to any table. In this easy and flavorful recipe, I’ll show you how to create a creamy sauce that pairs perfectly with juicy chicken. Whether you’re a kitchen newbie or a seasoned home cook, you’ll find tips and tricks to make this meal a winner. Let’s dive in!

To make Chicken Florentine, you'll need these key ingredients: - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - ½ cup heavy cream - 1 cup chicken broth - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese - Salt and pepper to taste These items form the base of your dish. The chicken provides protein, while the spinach adds color and nutrients. Tomatoes give sweetness, and the cream makes it rich. You can boost the taste with these optional ingredients: - ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes - Fresh herbs like basil or parsley Red pepper flakes add heat. Fresh herbs give a bright finish. Feel free to adjust based on your taste. If you don’t have some ingredients, here are simple swaps: - Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for more flavor. - Swap heavy cream for coconut milk for a lighter option. - Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version. These substitutions keep the dish tasty while meeting your needs. Cooking should be fun and flexible! {{ingredient_image_1}} To start, gather your ingredients. You need two boneless, skinless chicken breasts. First, season the chicken with salt, pepper, and oregano. This step adds a lot of flavor. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken. Cook each side for about 7-8 minutes until it turns golden brown. Make sure to check that it's fully cooked. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until it releases a nice aroma. Next, toss in one cup of halved cherry tomatoes. Cook these for about 3-4 minutes until they soften. After that, add two cups of roughly chopped fresh spinach. Cook the spinach just until it wilts, which takes about 2 minutes. Now, pour in one cup of chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Lower the heat and stir in half a cup of heavy cream. Let this simmer for another 2-3 minutes. Finally, add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, along with half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and everything blends well. Once everything is mixed, taste the sauce. You can add more salt, pepper, or even red pepper flakes to enhance the flavor. For serving, place the chicken on a plate and drizzle it with the creamy sauce. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprig of parsley for a pop of color. This dish pairs well with crusty bread or a bed of rice. Enjoy your flavorful Chicken Florentine! To cook chicken that is juicy and tender, start with good quality meat. Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for even cooking. Season them well with salt, pepper, and oregano. Heat olive oil in a skillet before adding the chicken. Cook each side for about 7-8 minutes. Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This keeps the juices inside, making each bite delicious. If you want a thicker sauce, try a few simple methods. One way is to simmer the sauce longer. This allows the liquid to reduce and thicken. You can also add more cheese. Parmesan cheese melts well and adds creaminess. Another option is to mix a little cornstarch with water. Stir this mixture into the sauce to thicken it quickly. Always taste your sauce as you go, adjusting the flavors to your liking. Pair your Chicken Florentine with sides that enhance its flavors. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish. Garlic bread is a great choice, perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. You can also serve it over rice or pasta for a heartier meal. Roasted vegetables add color and nutrients, making your plate look and taste great. Pro Tips Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for best results. Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh spinach and ripe cherry tomatoes to enhance the flavor and texture of the dish. Adjust the Creaminess: For a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream. Flavor Boost: Add a splash of white wine after sautéing the garlic for an additional layer of flavor in the sauce. {{image_2}} You can switch the chicken for other proteins. Try using shrimp or salmon for a twist. Both options cook fast and taste great with the creamy sauce. Just adjust cooking times to keep them juicy. For shrimp, cook for about 3-4 minutes per side. For salmon, aim for 5-6 minutes per side. Each choice brings new flavors while keeping the dish easy. If you want a meatless meal, try a vegetarian version. Use hearty mushrooms or firm tofu instead of chicken. Both options soak up the flavors well. Sauté the mushrooms until they are brown and soft. For tofu, press it first to remove excess moisture, then pan-fry until golden. Add the spinach and sauce just like in the original recipe. It’s still creamy and delicious. Feel free to get creative with sauces and seasonings. Swap the heavy cream for a lighter option like Greek yogurt. This gives a tangy flavor while cutting calories. You can also play with herbs; try thyme or basil for a twist. Adding lemon zest can brighten the dish. For a spicy kick, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. These small changes keep the dish fresh and fun! To store Chicken Florentine, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure the lid fits tightly to avoid leaks and odors. When reheating Chicken Florentine, use the stovetop for best results. Heat it in a skillet on low heat. Stir often to warm it evenly. You can add a splash of chicken broth or cream. This will keep the sauce creamy instead of dry. If you use a microwave, cover it with a damp paper towel. This helps prevent it from drying out. You can freeze Chicken Florentine for up to three months. First, let it cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave space for expansion. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it slowly on the stovetop for the best texture. Enjoy your meal later without losing flavor! Chicken Florentine is a creamy dish featuring chicken and spinach. It often has garlic, tomatoes, and cheese. The dish gets its name from Florence, Italy, where spinach is a common ingredient. The rich sauce adds flavor and keeps the chicken moist. Yes, you can make Chicken Florentine ahead of time. Cook the chicken and sauce, then store them separately. Keep them in the fridge for up to two days. When you're ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove. Chicken Florentine pairs well with many sides. Here are some ideas: - Crusty bread for dipping - Rice to soak up the sauce - Pasta for a heartier meal - A fresh salad for a light touch These options will enhance your meal and balance the rich flavors. Enjoy! In this blog post, we explored Chicken Florentine, its key ingredients, and how to prepare it. You learned about optional flavors and ingredient swaps. I shared tips for cooking juicy chicken and making a thick sauce. You also saw variations with different proteins and vegetarian options. As you make this dish, remember that practice helps you improve. Experiment with flavors and enjoy the process. Chicken Florentine can be a delightful meal for any occasion. Happy cooking!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Deliciously Creamy: This recipe boasts a rich, creamy sauce that perfectly complements the tender chicken and fresh vegetables, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.
  2. Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a homemade meal without the fuss.
  3. Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes, this recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
  4. Versatile Serving Options: Whether served over rice, with pasta, or alongside crusty bread, this dish adapts to any dining occasion, making it a family favorite.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Chicken Florentine

To make Chicken Florentine, you’ll need these key ingredients:

– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

– 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

– ½ cup heavy cream

– 1 cup chicken broth

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

– Salt and pepper to taste

These items form the base of your dish. The chicken provides protein, while the spinach adds color and nutrients. Tomatoes give sweetness, and the cream makes it rich.

Optional Ingredients for Enhanced Flavor

You can boost the taste with these optional ingredients:

– ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes

– Fresh herbs like basil or parsley

Red pepper flakes add heat. Fresh herbs give a bright finish. Feel free to adjust based on your taste.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have some ingredients, here are simple swaps:

– Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for more flavor.

– Swap heavy cream for coconut milk for a lighter option.

– Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.

These substitutions keep the dish tasty while meeting your needs. Cooking should be fun and flexible!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

To start, gather your ingredients. You need two boneless, skinless chicken breasts. First, season the chicken with salt, pepper, and oregano. This step adds a lot of flavor. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken. Cook each side for about 7-8 minutes until it turns golden brown. Make sure to check that it’s fully cooked. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Making the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until it releases a nice aroma. Next, toss in one cup of halved cherry tomatoes. Cook these for about 3-4 minutes until they soften. After that, add two cups of roughly chopped fresh spinach. Cook the spinach just until it wilts, which takes about 2 minutes. Now, pour in one cup of chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Lower the heat and stir in half a cup of heavy cream. Let this simmer for another 2-3 minutes. Finally, add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, along with half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and everything blends well.

Final Assembly and Serving Suggestions

Once everything is mixed, taste the sauce. You can add more salt, pepper, or even red pepper flakes to enhance the flavor. For serving, place the chicken on a plate and drizzle it with the creamy sauce. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprig of parsley for a pop of color. This dish pairs well with crusty bread or a bed of rice. Enjoy your flavorful Chicken Florentine!

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips for Perfectly Juicy Chicken

To cook chicken that is juicy and tender, start with good quality meat. Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for even cooking. Season them well with salt, pepper, and oregano. Heat olive oil in a skillet before adding the chicken. Cook each side for about 7-8 minutes. Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This keeps the juices inside, making each bite delicious.

Ways to Thicken the Sauce

If you want a thicker sauce, try a few simple methods. One way is to simmer the sauce longer. This allows the liquid to reduce and thicken. You can also add more cheese. Parmesan cheese melts well and adds creaminess. Another option is to mix a little cornstarch with water. Stir this mixture into the sauce to thicken it quickly. Always taste your sauce as you go, adjusting the flavors to your liking.

Suggestions for Complementary Sides

Pair your Chicken Florentine with sides that enhance its flavors. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish. Garlic bread is a great choice, perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. You can also serve it over rice or pasta for a heartier meal. Roasted vegetables add color and nutrients, making your plate look and taste great.

Pro Tips

  1. Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for best results.
  2. Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh spinach and ripe cherry tomatoes to enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
  3. Adjust the Creaminess: For a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream.
  4. Flavor Boost: Add a splash of white wine after sautéing the garlic for an additional layer of flavor in the sauce.

Variations

Chicken Florentine with Different Proteins

You can switch the chicken for other proteins. Try using shrimp or salmon for a twist. Both options cook fast and taste great with the creamy sauce. Just adjust cooking times to keep them juicy. For shrimp, cook for about 3-4 minutes per side. For salmon, aim for 5-6 minutes per side. Each choice brings new flavors while keeping the dish easy.

Vegetarian Spinach Florentine Option

If you want a meatless meal, try a vegetarian version. Use hearty mushrooms or firm tofu instead of chicken. Both options soak up the flavors well. Sauté the mushrooms until they are brown and soft. For tofu, press it first to remove excess moisture, then pan-fry until golden. Add the spinach and sauce just like in the original recipe. It’s still creamy and delicious.

Alternative Sauces and Seasonings

Feel free to get creative with sauces and seasonings. Swap the heavy cream for a lighter option like Greek yogurt. This gives a tangy flavor while cutting calories. You can also play with herbs; try thyme or basil for a twist. Adding lemon zest can brighten the dish. For a spicy kick, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. These small changes keep the dish fresh and fun!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To store Chicken Florentine, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure the lid fits tightly to avoid leaks and odors.

Reheating Tips for Best Texture

When reheating Chicken Florentine, use the stovetop for best results. Heat it in a skillet on low heat. Stir often to warm it evenly. You can add a splash of chicken broth or cream. This will keep the sauce creamy instead of dry. If you use a microwave, cover it with a damp paper towel. This helps prevent it from drying out.

Freezing Chicken Florentine

You can freeze Chicken Florentine for up to three months. First, let it cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave space for expansion. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it slowly on the stovetop for the best texture. Enjoy your meal later without losing flavor!

FAQs

What is Chicken Florentine?

Chicken Florentine is a creamy dish featuring chicken and spinach. It often has garlic, tomatoes, and cheese. The dish gets its name from Florence, Italy, where spinach is a common ingredient. The rich sauce adds flavor and keeps the chicken moist.

Can I make Chicken Florentine ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Chicken Florentine ahead of time. Cook the chicken and sauce, then store them separately. Keep them in the fridge for up to two days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove.

What can I serve with Chicken Florentine?

Chicken Florentine pairs well with many sides. Here are some ideas:

– Crusty bread for dipping

– Rice to soak up the sauce

– Pasta for a heartier meal

– A fresh salad for a light touch

These options will enhance your meal and balance the rich flavors. Enjoy!

In this blog post, we explored Chicken Florentine, its key ingredients, and how to prepare it. You learned about optional flavors and ingredient swaps. I shared tips for cooking juicy chicken and making a thick sauce. You also saw variations with different proteins and vegetarian options.

As you make this dish, remember that practice helps you improve. Experiment with flavors and enjoy the process. Chicken Florentine can be a delightful meal for any occasion. Happy cookin

To make Chicken Florentine, you'll need these key ingredients: - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - ½ cup heavy cream - 1 cup chicken broth - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese - Salt and pepper to taste These items form the base of your dish. The chicken provides protein, while the spinach adds color and nutrients. Tomatoes give sweetness, and the cream makes it rich. You can boost the taste with these optional ingredients: - ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes - Fresh herbs like basil or parsley Red pepper flakes add heat. Fresh herbs give a bright finish. Feel free to adjust based on your taste. If you don’t have some ingredients, here are simple swaps: - Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for more flavor. - Swap heavy cream for coconut milk for a lighter option. - Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version. These substitutions keep the dish tasty while meeting your needs. Cooking should be fun and flexible! {{ingredient_image_1}} To start, gather your ingredients. You need two boneless, skinless chicken breasts. First, season the chicken with salt, pepper, and oregano. This step adds a lot of flavor. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken. Cook each side for about 7-8 minutes until it turns golden brown. Make sure to check that it's fully cooked. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until it releases a nice aroma. Next, toss in one cup of halved cherry tomatoes. Cook these for about 3-4 minutes until they soften. After that, add two cups of roughly chopped fresh spinach. Cook the spinach just until it wilts, which takes about 2 minutes. Now, pour in one cup of chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Lower the heat and stir in half a cup of heavy cream. Let this simmer for another 2-3 minutes. Finally, add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, along with half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and everything blends well. Once everything is mixed, taste the sauce. You can add more salt, pepper, or even red pepper flakes to enhance the flavor. For serving, place the chicken on a plate and drizzle it with the creamy sauce. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprig of parsley for a pop of color. This dish pairs well with crusty bread or a bed of rice. Enjoy your flavorful Chicken Florentine! To cook chicken that is juicy and tender, start with good quality meat. Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for even cooking. Season them well with salt, pepper, and oregano. Heat olive oil in a skillet before adding the chicken. Cook each side for about 7-8 minutes. Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This keeps the juices inside, making each bite delicious. If you want a thicker sauce, try a few simple methods. One way is to simmer the sauce longer. This allows the liquid to reduce and thicken. You can also add more cheese. Parmesan cheese melts well and adds creaminess. Another option is to mix a little cornstarch with water. Stir this mixture into the sauce to thicken it quickly. Always taste your sauce as you go, adjusting the flavors to your liking. Pair your Chicken Florentine with sides that enhance its flavors. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish. Garlic bread is a great choice, perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. You can also serve it over rice or pasta for a heartier meal. Roasted vegetables add color and nutrients, making your plate look and taste great. Pro Tips Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for best results. Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh spinach and ripe cherry tomatoes to enhance the flavor and texture of the dish. Adjust the Creaminess: For a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream. Flavor Boost: Add a splash of white wine after sautéing the garlic for an additional layer of flavor in the sauce. {{image_2}} You can switch the chicken for other proteins. Try using shrimp or salmon for a twist. Both options cook fast and taste great with the creamy sauce. Just adjust cooking times to keep them juicy. For shrimp, cook for about 3-4 minutes per side. For salmon, aim for 5-6 minutes per side. Each choice brings new flavors while keeping the dish easy. If you want a meatless meal, try a vegetarian version. Use hearty mushrooms or firm tofu instead of chicken. Both options soak up the flavors well. Sauté the mushrooms until they are brown and soft. For tofu, press it first to remove excess moisture, then pan-fry until golden. Add the spinach and sauce just like in the original recipe. It’s still creamy and delicious. Feel free to get creative with sauces and seasonings. Swap the heavy cream for a lighter option like Greek yogurt. This gives a tangy flavor while cutting calories. You can also play with herbs; try thyme or basil for a twist. Adding lemon zest can brighten the dish. For a spicy kick, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. These small changes keep the dish fresh and fun! To store Chicken Florentine, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure the lid fits tightly to avoid leaks and odors. When reheating Chicken Florentine, use the stovetop for best results. Heat it in a skillet on low heat. Stir often to warm it evenly. You can add a splash of chicken broth or cream. This will keep the sauce creamy instead of dry. If you use a microwave, cover it with a damp paper towel. This helps prevent it from drying out. You can freeze Chicken Florentine for up to three months. First, let it cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave space for expansion. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it slowly on the stovetop for the best texture. Enjoy your meal later without losing flavor! Chicken Florentine is a creamy dish featuring chicken and spinach. It often has garlic, tomatoes, and cheese. The dish gets its name from Florence, Italy, where spinach is a common ingredient. The rich sauce adds flavor and keeps the chicken moist. Yes, you can make Chicken Florentine ahead of time. Cook the chicken and sauce, then store them separately. Keep them in the fridge for up to two days. When you're ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove. Chicken Florentine pairs well with many sides. Here are some ideas: - Crusty bread for dipping - Rice to soak up the sauce - Pasta for a heartier meal - A fresh salad for a light touch These options will enhance your meal and balance the rich flavors. Enjoy! In this blog post, we explored Chicken Florentine, its key ingredients, and how to prepare it. You learned about optional flavors and ingredient swaps. I shared tips for cooking juicy chicken and making a thick sauce. You also saw variations with different proteins and vegetarian options. As you make this dish, remember that practice helps you improve. Experiment with flavors and enjoy the process. Chicken Florentine can be a delightful meal for any occasion. Happy cooking!

Creamy Chicken Florentine Delight

A delicious and creamy chicken dish with fresh spinach and tomatoes.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 2

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 0.5 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • to taste salt and pepper

Instructions
 

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and oregano.
  • Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 7-8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Add the cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
  • Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
  • Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Let simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
  • Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, followed by grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted and everything is well combined.
  • Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.

Notes

Serve with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal.
Keyword chicken, creamy, easy recipe, spinach

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?