Chicken Florentine has become one of those comforting dishes in my kitchen that always brings a bit of sunshine to a hectic weeknight. I first encountered it back in my early days working in restaurant kitchens here in the U.S., where the creamy spinach and tender chicken combo was a revelation after long shifts. Now, with my kids around, it’s a go-to meal that’s both satisfying and surprisingly quick to pull together. There’s something about the silky sauce and the freshness of spinach that feels like a little celebration on a plate—without the fuss. Let me share why this Chicken Florentine might just become your new favorite too.
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Why You’ll Love This Chicken Florentine
This Chicken Florentine recipe stands out because it perfectly balances comfort and elegance without demanding hours in the kitchen. First, the creamy spinach sauce feels indulgent but is actually packed with nutrients, which is a win when cooking for little ones who’d rather dip everything in ketchup than eat greens. Second, it’s a one-pan wonder that doesn’t leave you buried in dishes—something I appreciate more than ever as a busy mom. Lastly, the flavors are so harmonious; the garlic and lemon zest brighten the dish, while the chicken stays juicy and tender. I’ve found it’s a great recipe for those evenings when you want something special but need to keep things simple.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Chicken Florentine
The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients—fresh spinach, good quality chicken breasts, and a touch of cream to make the sauce luscious. Growing up in southern England, I learned from my mum and grandmother how much flavor comes from using simple, quality components rather than complicated shortcuts. For this recipe, I always choose organic spinach if I can find it and skinless, boneless chicken breasts for ease. If you want to add a little twist, I sometimes swap half the cream for Greek yogurt to lighten it up without losing creaminess.
- 4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream (or substitute half with Greek yogurt)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: Approximately 430 per serving
- Protein: 45g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 380mg
Savor the Creamy Delight of Classic Chicken Florentine
Learn how to make delicious Chicken Florentine. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients—fresh spinach, good quality chicken breasts, and a touch of cream to make the sauce luscious. Growing up in southern England, I learned from my mum and grandmother how much flavor comes from using simple, quality components rather than complicated shortcuts. For this recipe, I always choose organic spinach if I can find it and skinless, boneless chicken breasts for ease. If you want to add a little twist, I sometimes swap half the cream for Greek yogurt to lighten it up without losing creaminess.
- 4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream (or substitute half with Greek yogurt)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.
- Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, until wilted—about 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream (or cream and yogurt mixture) and stir well to combine. Let it simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes if using. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some sauce over them. Let everything warm together for 2 minutes so the flavors meld.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately, enjoying the creamy, garlicky goodness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your Chicken Florentine
- Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.
- Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, until wilted—about 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream (or cream and yogurt mixture) and stir well to combine. Let it simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes if using. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some sauce over them. Let everything warm together for 2 minutes so the flavors meld.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately, enjoying the creamy, garlicky goodness.
Tips for Making the Best Chicken Florentine
Getting this dish just right is all about timing and quality ingredients. I’ve learned from years in professional kitchens that even a simple recipe can shine with the right approach. Here are some tips that helped me perfect this dish over time:
- Use fresh spinach rather than frozen. It wilts beautifully and adds vibrant color.
- Don’t rush the chicken cooking—letting it brown properly creates flavor and keeps it juicy.
- After cooking, let the chicken rest a few minutes before slicing to retain moisture.
- If you want a lighter sauce, substitute half the cream with Greek yogurt, but add it off the heat to prevent curdling.
- Feel free to add a splash of white wine or chicken broth to deglaze the pan before adding cream for extra depth.
- Keep the garlic from burning by adjusting the heat and stirring constantly once it’s in the pan.
With these tips, you’ll create a restaurant-quality dish every time. Learn more: Chicken Florentine recipe Learn more: Bang Bang Chicken Bowl with Creamy Sauce Delight
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This dish is incredibly versatile and works beautifully for various occasions—from cozy weeknight dinners to casual weekend entertaining. I often serve it when my kids request something saucy they can dip their bread into, and it never disappoints. Presentation-wise, a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a wedge of lemon brightens the plate visually and flavor-wise.
- Pair with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or sparkling water with a lemon twist for a refreshing contrast.
- Serve alongside garlic mashed potatoes or creamy polenta to soak up the luscious sauce.
- Add a simple mixed green salad with vinaigrette for a fresh, crunchy balance.
- For a low-carb option, swap potatoes for cauliflower mash or roasted vegetables.
Whether it’s a cozy family meal or entertaining friends, this Chicken Florentine always feels like a small celebration around our table.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Proper storage ensures you can enjoy leftovers just as much as the fresh dish. As someone who juggles busy days and meal prep, I appreciate recipes that hold up well to reheating.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- When reheating, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the sauce from separating.
- Add a splash of cream or milk while reheating to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.
- This dish also freezes well—freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 1 month and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for Chicken Florentine?
The main ingredients for Chicken Florentine include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make Chicken Florentine?
The total time to make Chicken Florentine includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make Chicken Florentine ahead of time?
Yes, Chicken Florentine can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.
What can I serve with Chicken Florentine?
Chicken Florentine pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is Chicken Florentine suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, Chicken Florentine may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Florentine is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate—comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to make. I hope you give it a try and find the same joy in cooking and sharing it as I do. Please drop me a note if you do; I love hearing how these recipes find their way into your homes and hearts.
