Creamy Chicken Florentine Recipe

If you’re craving a cozy, restaurant-quality dinner that feels both indulgent and wholesome, you’re going to love this Creamy Chicken Florentine Recipe. It’s buttery, garlicky, and loaded with tender chicken nestled in a velvety spinach cream sauce that’s been my go-to for busy weeknights and casual dinner parties alike. I can’t wait to walk you through the simple steps so you can enjoy this fan-freaking-tastic dish at home.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient here plays a starring role in bringing this Creamy Chicken Florentine Recipe to life. I love using fresh spinach and real Parmesan—it really makes a difference. Also, a good quality white wine will add depth to the sauce, so pick something you enjoy sipping!

• Chicken breasts: Using large chicken breasts, sliced thinly, ensures quick, even cooking and tender bites.
• Garlic powder: Adds subtle warmth and depth; a great shortcut when you don’t want to overdo fresh garlic.
• Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning; don’t be shy to season both sides of the chicken well.
• Flour: Just enough for dredging, it helps create a beautiful golden crust and thickens the sauce slightly.
• Olive oil: Provides a good searing base with healthy fats and flavor.
• Butter: Divided, to start cooking the chicken and then building that luscious sauce—trust me, don’t skip it.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds brightness and aroma that garlic powder can’t match.
• Dry white wine: I recommend a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to bring a clean acidity and flavor balance.
• Chicken broth: Adds savory depth without overwhelming the delicate sauce.
• Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano and basil rounds out the flavors beautifully.
• Heavy cream: This is where the magic happens—rich and creamy without curdling when handled right.
• Fresh baby spinach: Adds color, freshness, and nutrition; it wilts perfectly in the sauce to tuck right in.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated melts into the sauce and gives that signature nutty finish.

Variations

I’m all about making this recipe your own. I’ve swapped in different greens or added some heat here and there to keep things interesting—and you might find your favorite spin on it, too!

• Use kale or Swiss chard: I’ve subbed spinach with kale when that’s what I had on hand; it adds a nice hearty bite.
• Spicy twist: Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce gives it a gentle kick that my family enjoys.
• Dairy-free version: Try coconut cream instead of heavy cream and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan.
• Mushroom addition: Sautéed mushrooms folded into the sauce add an earthy richness I love on chillier nights.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Florentine Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Start by slicing your chicken breasts in half lengthwise so they cook evenly and quickly. Then, season both sides generously with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Dredging the chicken in flour not only creates a beautiful crust but also helps thicken the sauce later on. I like to set these pieces aside while I heat up the pan—makes the whole process smoother.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high with olive oil and half the butter. When the butter is melted and foamy, add the chicken pieces. Cook each side for about 4 to 5 minutes until golden brown. Don’t rush this part—getting a good sear locks in juices and adds flavor. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Lower the heat back to medium and melt the remaining butter in the same pan. Toss in your minced garlic and let it soften but not brown—about 30 seconds. Pour in the white wine, chicken broth, and sprinkle the Italian seasoning. Allow this to simmer and reduce for around 3 to 5 minutes; you’ll notice the sauce thickening and the alcohol cooking off, leaving behind complexity and depth.

Step 4: Add Cream and Spinach

Pour in the heavy cream and stir it gently. Let it bubble for 2 minutes as it thickens. Now toss in your fresh spinach—you’ll see it wilt almost instantly, turning the sauce a lovely green tint and packing in those vibrant nutrients.

Step 5: Finish Cooking the Chicken

Return the chicken pieces to the pan, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Cook for another 4 to 5 minutes over medium heat, letting the sauce thicken and the chicken cook through fully. Before serving, sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan over the chicken and sauce. It melts into a silky finish that you’ll fall in love with. Taste and season with a little extra salt and pepper if needed.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Florentine Recipe

Garnishes

I always like to finish serving this dish with a sprinkle of fresh cracked black pepper and a few extra shreds of Parmesan. Sometimes a squeeze of lemon juice on top brightens all the rich flavors, especially if your spinach is a bit on the mild side. A couple of fresh basil leaves or chopped parsley also adds a pop of color and freshness.

Side Dishes

This creamy chicken goodness pairs wonderfully with garlic mashed potatoes to soak up every luscious drop of sauce. I also love serving it alongside roasted asparagus or a crusty baguette for dipping. For a lighter option, steamed rice or even buttered pasta work perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

At a dinner party, I like to plate each chicken piece over a bed of sautéed spinach or wilted greens, then drizzle the sauce over it elegantly. You can also serve the sauce separately in a small pitcher for guests to spoon as much as they like. If you’re feeling fancy, a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a few edible flowers adds a special touch that never fails to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Because the sauce thickens as it cools, I recommend adding a splash of chicken broth or cream when reheating to bring back that silky texture. My family appreciates having this ready the next day for a quick lunch or second dinner.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this recipe a couple of times without issues—just make sure you cool the dish fully before placing it in a freezer-safe container. When thawing, it helps to do it overnight in the fridge and gently reheat on the stovetop to avoid breaking the sauce.

Reheating

Reheating on the stove over low-medium heat works best—you can stir frequently and add a little broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. Microwaving can work in a pinch, but go for short intervals and stir often so it heats evenly without curdling.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Florentine Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it transforms simple ingredients into something so satisfying and comforting. It’s a great way to make a weeknight feel a little fancy without hours of fuss. I hope you give this recipe a try—you’ll end up with tender chicken, a luscious spinach cream sauce, and happy, smiling diners at your table. Seriously, I can’t recommend this enough for a quick yet impressive meal.

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