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Are you looking for a hearty and flavorful dish that delivers comfort in every bite? Look no further than Creamy Chicken Florentine! This recipe features tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich, creamy sauce that will impress your family and friends. In this post, I’ll guide you through the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips to make this dish shine. Let’s get cooking!

Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, taking only 30 minutes from start to finish.
- Creamy Deliciousness: The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan creates a rich, velvety sauce that elevates the dish.
- Healthy Greens: Adding fresh spinach not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds a lovely color and texture.
- Versatile Dish: This creamy chicken can be served over pasta, rice, or even on its own for a low-carb option.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, washed and dried
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup chicken broth
The main ingredients come together to create a rich and filling dish. The chicken breasts are the star of the show. They provide protein and a nice texture. Fresh spinach adds a lovely color and a boost of nutrients. Heavy cream and chicken broth create a smooth and creamy sauce that ties everything together.
Seasonings and Other Additions
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
The seasonings elevate the dish’s flavor. Garlic and onion add depth and aroma. Parmesan cheese gives a salty, nutty taste that blends beautifully with the cream. Olive oil helps cook the chicken and add richness. Lemon juice brightens the sauce and cuts through the creaminess. Italian seasoning provides a warm, herbal note that makes this dish feel comforting.
Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a balanced and delicious meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
Seasoning Techniques
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts. Use salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Make sure to coat both sides well. This step adds flavor and depth to your dish.
Cooking Chicken to Perfection
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook them for 6-7 minutes on each side. Look for a golden brown color and ensure they are cooked through. After cooking, remove the chicken and set it aside.
Making the Creamy Sauce
Sautéing Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes. You want the onion to become soft and see-through. This will build a great base for your sauce.
Combining Ingredients for the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth. Use a spatula to scrape up any brown bits. This adds flavor! Let the broth simmer for about 3 minutes. Next, stir in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice. Mix until the cheese melts and everything combines well.
Bringing it All Together
Wilting the Spinach
Now it’s time to add the fresh spinach leaves to your creamy sauce. Stir them in and let them wilt for about 2 minutes. They should become tender but still bright green.
Final Steps Before Serving
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Spoon the creamy spinach sauce over the chicken. Heat everything through for an additional 2-3 minutes. Your dish is now ready to serve! Enjoy this warm, rich meal.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
– Ensuring the Chicken Stays Moist
To keep the chicken juicy, do not overcook it. Cook it for 6-7 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The chicken should reach 165°F. Resting the chicken for a few minutes before slicing helps keep moisture inside.
– Perfecting Cream Consistency
To make the cream sauce thick and smooth, stir the heavy cream gently. Avoid boiling the sauce too hard; this can cause it to split. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of chicken broth. For a richer flavor, use more Parmesan cheese.
Presentation Tips
– Garnishing Ideas
For a beautiful touch, sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top before serving. Add a slice of lemon or a sprig of fresh parsley for color. You can also drizzle a bit of olive oil for shine.
– Serving Suggestions
Plate the chicken on a bed of creamy spinach sauce. Serve it with crusty bread or over pasta for a filling meal. You can also pair it with a side salad to balance the richness.
Pro Tips
- Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for optimal juiciness.
- Customize the Greens: Experiment with different leafy greens such as kale or Swiss chard for a unique twist on flavor and nutrition.
- Make it Lighter: Substitute half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative if you want a lighter version of the dish without sacrificing creaminess.
- Add Extra Flavor: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes or olives into the creamy sauce for an added layer of flavor that complements the spinach beautifully.

Variations
Ingredient Swaps
Using Different Proteins
You can use other proteins for this dish. Try using turkey or shrimp. Both options work well and add a twist. You can even use tofu for a vegetarian choice. It absorbs flavors nicely and complements the creamy sauce.
Alternative Cream Options
Heavy cream gives the dish a rich flavor, but you have options. You can swap it with half-and-half for a lighter taste. Coconut milk is another option for a unique flavor. It adds a hint of sweetness and works great with the spices.
Serving Variants
Pairing with Sides
Creamy Chicken Florentine is best with sides that balance its richness. Serve it with rice or mashed potatoes. A fresh salad also pairs well, adding crunch and brightness. Garlic bread is a great choice too, perfect for soaking up the sauce.
Serving as a Pasta Dish
You can turn this dish into a pasta delight. Simply serve the creamy chicken and spinach over cooked pasta. Fettuccine or penne works best, as they hold the sauce well. This creates a filling meal that everyone will love.
Storage Info
Reheating Instructions
Best Methods for Reheating
You can reheat Creamy Chicken Florentine in a skillet or microwave. If using a skillet, heat it on low. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep it moist. Stir gently until it’s hot. In a microwave, place the dish in a safe bowl. Cover it and heat in 30-second bursts. Stir in between until warm.
Maintaining Flavor and Texture
To keep the flavor and texture, avoid high heat. High heat can dry out the chicken and make the sauce grainy. Adding a little liquid when reheating helps keep the cream smooth.
Freezing Guidance
How to Freeze Creamy Chicken Florentine
To freeze, let the dish cool completely. Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. Label the bag with the date. It can last for up to three months in the freezer.
Thawing and Reheating Tips
Thaw Creamy Chicken Florentine in the fridge overnight. This keeps the chicken safe and helps it thaw evenly. When ready to heat, follow the same reheating tips. Adding a little broth or cream will help bring back its creamy texture. Enjoy your meal just like fresh!
FAQs
What is Creamy Chicken Florentine?
Creamy Chicken Florentine is a rich dish made with chicken and spinach. The tender chicken cooks in a creamy sauce made from heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese. Fresh spinach adds bright color and nutrients. This dish is not only hearty but also full of flavor. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home.
How can I spice up Creamy Chicken Florentine?
You can add more flavor in several ways. Here are some ideas:
– Add more spices: Try using red pepper flakes for heat or smoked paprika for depth.
– Use fresh herbs: Basil, thyme, or parsley can brighten the dish.
– Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes: They add a tangy taste and extra color.
– Mix in different cheeses: Goat cheese or feta can add creaminess and zest.
These tweaks can make your dish unique and exciting.
Can I make Creamy Chicken Florentine ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead. Here are some tips:
– Cook the chicken and sauce: Prepare everything as per the recipe, but don’t add the spinach yet.
– Store in the fridge: Keep the chicken and sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
– Reheat before serving: When ready, heat the dish on low and stir in fresh spinach until it wilts.
This way, you can enjoy a delicious meal without stress on busy days.
Creamy Chicken Florentine combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich sauce. We discussed key ingredients, cooking steps, and tasty variations. You can switch proteins and cream types for a new twist. Remember to follow the reheating tips to keep flavors intact. This dish not only delights your taste buds but also impresses at dinner. Enjoy making it your own, and don’t hesitate to experiment. Your culinary journey with Creamy Chicken Florentine can be both fun and rewardin
Creamy Chicken Florentine
A delicious and creamy chicken dish with fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 30 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, washed and dried
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- to taste salt and pepper
Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet. Allow it to simmer for about 3 minutes.
Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice, stirring until the cheese is melted and well combined.
Add the fresh spinach leaves to the creamy sauce and stir until the spinach wilts, about 2 minutes.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the creamy spinach sauce over the top. Allow everything to heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.
Plate the chicken on a bed of creamy spinach sauce, and sprinkle with extra Parmesan and fresh pepper for a touch of elegance. Consider garnishing with a slice of lemon or a sprig of fresh parsley for color.
Keyword chicken, creamy, Parmesan, spinach
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