Chicken Florentine Recipe

Creamy, garlicky, and full of fresh spinach, this Chicken Florentine Recipe is the perfect combination of comfort and elegance. Juicy chicken cutlets simmer in a luscious parmesan sauce that’s light yet satisfying, making it ideal for an easy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.

Behind the Recipe

The first time I made Chicken Florentine was on a rainy evening when I needed something warm, filling, and a little bit fancy without too much fuss. I had spinach, chicken, and a bit of parmesan in the fridge, and with a quick stir of cream and garlic, dinner came together like magic. This dish has since become one of my favorite comfort meals—it’s simple, hearty, and always feels special.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

“Florentine” refers to dishes inspired by Florence, Italy, where spinach is a key ingredient. Chicken Florentine became popular in French cuisine during the Renaissance when Queen Catherine de’ Medici of Florence married into French royalty and brought her love for spinach with her. The modern version combines Italian and French influences—a creamy, garlicky sauce with tender chicken and plenty of greens.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Florentine Recipe

This dish checks every box for a comforting, satisfying dinner.

Versatile: Works beautifully with pasta, rice, or a slice of crusty bread.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple ingredients that stretch into a filling meal.
Quick and Easy: Takes less than 30 minutes from pan to plate.
Customizable: Swap spinach for kale, or use your favorite milk or flour.
Crowd-Pleasing: Creamy, cheesy, and family-friendly.
Make-Ahead Friendly: The sauce reheats perfectly.
Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Mastering Chicken Florentine is all about timing and layering flavors. Here’s how to get that perfect creamy finish.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken; cook in batches if needed.
• Use freshly grated parmesan—it melts smoother and adds richer flavor.
• Let the sauce simmer gently to thicken instead of boiling rapidly.
• Add the spinach last to keep its bright green color.
• Finish with a splash of broth if the sauce gets too thick.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

You only need a few essentials to make this recipe come together perfectly.

Large Skillet: For searing the chicken and building the sauce.
Tongs: To flip and remove the chicken cutlets.
Whisk: For mixing the sauce smoothly.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate seasoning.
Knife and Cutting Board: To prep garlic and chicken evenly.

Ingredients in Chicken Florentine Recipe

Each ingredient brings balance to the creamy, savory sauce and tender chicken.

1. Chicken Breasts: 2.5 pounds, cut into thin cutlets. Juicy, tender, and the main protein of the dish.
2. Garlic Powder: ½ teaspoon. Adds subtle, even flavor throughout.
3. Kosher Salt: To taste. Enhances every ingredient’s flavor.
4. Black Pepper: To taste. Adds mild heat and depth.
5. Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, divided. For searing and flavoring the sauce.
6. Garlic Cloves: 3, minced. Bring a punch of aroma and warmth.
7. Chicken Broth: ⅔ cup. Creates a flavorful base for the sauce.
8. Italian Seasoning: A pinch. Adds herbal notes that tie the dish together.
9. Milk: 1 cup (any kind, almond or 2%). Makes the sauce light yet creamy.
10. Gluten-Free Flour (or Cornstarch): 1 tablespoon. Thickens the sauce without making it heavy.
11. Fresh Baby Spinach: 2 cups, loosely packed. Brings freshness and color.
12. Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, grated. Melts into the sauce for richness.
13. Optional: Extra parmesan for topping.

Ingredient Substitutions

Make it your own with these easy swaps.

Chicken Breasts: Try chicken thighs or turkey cutlets.
Milk: Use half-and-half for richer sauce or coconut milk for dairy-free.
Flour: Cornstarch, rice flour, or regular flour all work.
Spinach: Swap for kale or Swiss chard.
Parmesan Cheese: Substitute with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast.

Ingredient Spotlight

Spinach: Fresh baby spinach adds color, nutrients, and a mild flavor that balances the creamy sauce.

Parmesan Cheese: Its salty, nutty flavor is what gives the sauce its depth and signature richness.

Instructions for Making Chicken Florentine Recipe

It’s simple, quick, and guaranteed to become a go-to. Let’s start cooking!

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   Season chicken cutlets with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Sear the chicken in batches for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   In the same pan, add remaining olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and flour, whisking until slightly thickened.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   Slowly stir in milk and let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes until creamy. Add spinach and cook until just wilted.
6. Finishing Touches:
   Stir in grated parmesan cheese until melted. Return chicken to the pan and spoon sauce over the top.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Sprinkle with more parmesan if desired and serve hot with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The chicken is tender on the inside and golden on the outside, while the sauce is velvety and full of flavor. The spinach gives freshness, and the parmesan adds a subtle saltiness that ties everything together. Each bite is creamy, garlicky, and deeply comforting.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Keep these tips in mind for foolproof success.

• Whisk the sauce constantly to avoid lumps.
• Use room-temperature milk to keep the sauce smooth.
• For extra flavor, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine before adding broth.

What to Avoid

A few easy things to steer clear of.

• Don’t overcook the chicken—it’ll dry out quickly.
• Avoid boiling the sauce; simmer gently to prevent separation.
• Don’t add spinach too early or it’ll lose its color and texture.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 420

Note: These values are approximate.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare the sauce ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently and add chicken before serving. Leftovers keep beautifully and can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months—just thaw before reheating.

How to Serve Chicken Florentine Recipe

This creamy dish pairs beautifully with:

• Cooked pasta or rice
• Mashed potatoes
• Steamed vegetables or roasted asparagus
• A slice of warm crusty bread for soaking up the sauce

Creative Leftover Transformations

Leftovers are just as good the next day! Try these ideas:

• Slice the chicken and serve it over a spinach salad.
• Toss into cooked pasta for a creamy lunch bowl.
• Stuff it into a wrap with extra spinach and cheese.

Additional Tips

• Add a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
• Stir in a pinch of chili flakes for mild heat.
• Use freshly ground black pepper for the best aroma.

Make It a Showstopper

Serve directly from a cast-iron skillet for a rustic presentation. Garnish with grated parmesan, cracked black pepper, and a few fresh spinach leaves. Pair with a glass of sparkling water or iced tea for a balanced, elegant meal.

Variations to Try

• Mushroom Florentine: Add sautéed mushrooms to the sauce.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut milk and vegan cheese.
• Lemon Florentine: Add lemon zest to the sauce for brightness.
• Tomato Twist: Add a spoonful of sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
• Cheesy Bake: Top with mozzarella and bake until bubbly.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use frozen spinach?
A1: Yes, just thaw and squeeze out the liquid before adding.

Q2: Can I make it dairy-free?
A2: Yes, use almond or coconut milk and dairy-free parmesan.

Q3: What can I serve it with?
A3: Rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or even zucchini noodles.

Q4: How do I make the sauce thicker?
A4: Add an extra teaspoon of flour or simmer longer.

Q5: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
A5: Yes, add it at the end and heat through gently.

Q6: Can I make it spicier?
A6: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.

Q7: How long does it last in the fridge?
A7: Up to 3 days in an airtight container.

Q8: What type of milk works best?
A8: 2% or whole milk gives the creamiest texture.

Q9: Can I skip the flour?
A9: Yes, use cornstarch or arrowroot as a thickener.

Q10: Is this gluten-free?
A10: Yes, if you use gluten-free flour or cornstarch.

Conclusion

This Chicken Florentine Recipe brings together everything you love in a single pan—creamy sauce, tender chicken, and wholesome spinach. It’s elegant enough for guests and easy enough for a weeknight. Trust me, it’s worth every bite.

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