Creamy Chicken Florentine

Creamy Chicken Florentine is a delicious and hearty dish perfect for a quick and elegant dinner. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, garlicky cream sauce, fresh baby spinach, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. It’s a flavorful meal that pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread. Easy to make and packed with comforting flavors, this dish is a great choice for weeknight meals or special occasions. Perfect for anyone who loves creamy chicken recipes with an Italian-inspired twist!

Ingredients

• Chicken:
  • 2 large chicken breasts, cut in half lengthwise to make 4 thinner pieces
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt & pepper, to taste
  • Flour, for dredging
• For Sautéing:
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter, divided
• Sauce:
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 cup heavy (whipping) cream
  • 2 cups fresh baby spinach (loosely packed)
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Slice the chicken breasts lengthwise to create 4 thinner pieces.
2. Season both sides of the chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge each piece of chicken in flour, ensuring an even coating.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

4. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter.
5. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and cooked to 165°F. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

6. In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
7. Deglaze the skillet by adding the wine, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the liquid reduces by about half.

Step 4: Finish the Dish

8. Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 2 minutes.
9. Add the spinach to the sauce and cook until wilted.
10. Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the top. Let it cook for another 4-5 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens slightly.
11. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the chicken and sauce. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.

Step 5: Serve

12. Serve the chicken warm with your choice of side dishes like pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy Sauce: The velvety cream sauce pairs perfectly with tender chicken and fresh spinach.
• Quick to Make: This recipe comes together in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
• Elegant yet Simple: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

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Tips

• Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Ensure the chicken is evenly sliced for uniform cooking.
• Let the wine reduce fully to concentrate the flavors in the sauce.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Swap: Try this recipe with turkey or thinly sliced pork chops.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and nutritional yeast for Parmesan.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichoke hearts for extra flavor.

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FAQs

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce separately, then reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Q: What wine should I use?
A: A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works best.

Q: Can I use frozen spinach?
A: Fresh spinach is preferred, but frozen spinach can be used. Be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce.
• Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Accompany with crusty bread to scoop up the creamy sauce.