Chicken Florentine is a classic Italian-inspired dish that combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a rich and creamy sauce, vibrant spinach, and a touch of sun-dried tomatoes for added depth. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners when you’re craving something hearty, flavorful, and sophisticated but easy to make. Whether served with pasta, rice, or crusty bread, it’s a comforting meal that everyone will enjoy.
Why This Recipe Works
Creamy Sauce: The heavy cream and Parmesan cheese create a luscious sauce that perfectly coats the chicken and spinach.
Balanced Flavors: The savory chicken, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and mild spinach complement each other beautifully, while the Italian seasoning adds just the right hint of herbaceous flavor.
Quick and Simple: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
One-pan Wonder: The entire meal cooks in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze while infusing the flavors together.
What You’ll Need for This Recipe
Ingredients:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups fresh spinach leaves
1 tsp Italian seasoning
How to Make Chicken Florentine
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, letting the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
Step 3: Add the Spinach
Add the fresh spinach leaves to the skillet and stir until they wilt into the sauce.
Season with more salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce and spinach over the top.
Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 3-5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Serve the chicken with the creamy spinach sauce poured over the top.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chicken Florentine with a side of pasta (like fettuccine or spaghetti) to soak up the delicious sauce.
Pair it with garlic bread for a flavorful side that complements the rich dish.
For a lighter option, serve the chicken over cauliflower rice or zoodles (zucchini noodles).
A side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad will balance out the richness of the dish.
Helpful Tips for Recipe Success
Chicken Variations: You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier cut of meat.
Cream Alternatives: If you want a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a mix of milk and cornstarch.
Customize the Spinach: Feel free to use frozen spinach (just thaw and drain it well) if fresh spinach is unavailable.
Sun-dried Tomatoes: If you prefer a more intense flavor, opt for sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil. Just be sure to drain them well before chopping.
Adding Nuts: For extra texture, try adding some toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds to the dish.
Timing Breakdown
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chicken Florentine is the perfect blend of creamy, savory, and slightly tangy flavors that will quickly become a household favorite. It’s a complete meal with protein, vegetables, and a rich sauce that’s perfect for spooning over your favorite sides. The quick cook time and easy-to-follow steps make it an ideal choice for busy evenings, and the leftovers (if any) are just as delicious the next day.
Enjoy your Chicken Florentine, a dish that brings the taste of Italy straight to your dinner table!