Hello, food lovers! Today, I’m excited to share with you a recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite: Classic Creamy Chicken Florentine. This dish brings together tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and a luscious cream sauce that’s full of rich flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something special for a weekend dinner, this recipe is perfect for any occasion.
Introduction
Classic Creamy Chicken Florentine is a timeless dish with roots in Italian cuisine. Florentine dishes are known for their use of spinach, and this recipe is no exception. The combination of chicken, spinach, and a creamy sauce creates a dish that’s both comforting and elegant.
I first fell in love with this dish during a trip to Florence, where the locals pride themselves on simple, yet flavorful meals. Since then, I’ve been perfecting my own version at home, and I can’t wait for you to try it!
Ingredients
To prepare this comforting Classic Creamy Chicken Florentine recipe, you’ll need:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup all-purpose or gluten-free flour (for dietary restrictions)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 shallots, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced (or substitute with tomatoes)
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 4 ounces cream cheese (reduced-fat for a healthier option)
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or dry white wine
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional substitutions:
- For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream instead of half-and-half and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
- To make the dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free flour for dredging the chicken.
How to Make Classic Creamy Chicken Florentine
Follow these steps to create your own delicious Classic Creamy Chicken Florentine:
- Prep the Chicken: Begin by pounding the thick parts of the chicken breasts or thighs to ensure even cooking. This will help the chicken cook uniformly, preventing any dry or undercooked spots.
- Season and Coat: Season the chicken with kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Then, lightly dredge each piece in flour, shaking off any excess. This step gives the chicken a nice golden crust when cooked.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides and fully cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes per side. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the finely chopped shallots and minced garlic. Sauté them until they’re fragrant, which should take about 2 minutes. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.
- Add the Bell Pepper: Toss in the diced red bell pepper (or tomatoes, if you prefer). Cook until the peppers are softened, adding a nice pop of color and flavor to the dish.
- Cook the Spinach: Stir in the fresh spinach, allowing it to wilt down. This should only take a few minutes.
- Create the Sauce: Lower the heat and add the cream cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until it’s melted and smooth, creating a rich base for the sauce.
- Combine Liquids: Pour in the half-and-half (or heavy cream) and chicken broth (or white wine), stirring to combine. Allow the sauce to simmer and thicken slightly.
- Return the Chicken: Place the cooked chicken back into the skillet, spooning the sauce over each piece. Let it simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors together.
- Finish with Parmesan: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken. Continue cooking until the cheese is melted and bubbly, adding an extra layer of flavor and creaminess.
Helpful Tips
- Pounding the Chicken: Ensure even cooking by pounding the chicken to an even thickness. This step is crucial for a consistent texture throughout.
- Garlic Watch: Garlic can quickly turn from golden to burnt, which would give a bitter taste to your dish. Keep a close eye when sautéing.
Cooking Tips
- Enhancing Flavor: For an added depth of flavor, consider using white wine instead of chicken broth. The acidity helps balance the richness of the cream sauce.
- Equipment: A heavy-bottomed skillet works best for this recipe, as it ensures even heat distribution, which is key for perfectly cooked chicken and a smooth sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Classic Creamy Chicken Florentine pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides:
- Mashed Potatoes: The creaminess of the sauce complements the rich texture of mashed potatoes.
- Rice Pilaf: A light, fluffy rice pilaf is perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
- Steamed Vegetables: Balance out the richness of the dish with a side of steamed broccoli or green beans.
For beverages, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio would pair beautifully with the creamy sauce and chicken.
Nutritional Information
This dish is not only delicious but also offers a range of nutritional benefits:
- Spinach: Packed with iron, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants, spinach is a nutritional powerhouse.
- Chicken: A great source of lean protein, chicken helps in muscle repair and growth.
- Cream Cheese: While it adds creaminess, using reduced-fat options can lower the overall calorie content.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Potassium: 800mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Vitamin A: 2200 IU
- Vitamin C: 35mg
- Calcium: 150mg
- Iron: 3mg
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve as they meld together, making it perfect for meal prep.
Reheat: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep the sauce from drying out. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the chicken tough and the sauce greasy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the skillet to prevent excess water from thinning the sauce.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
For a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese. However, this will alter the texture and flavor slightly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish can be made a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.
Related Recipes
If you loved this Classic Creamy Chicken Florentine recipe, you might also enjoy:
-
Creamy Chicken Spinach Pasta Bake With Fontina Cheese
-
Sweet And Spicy Grilled Chicken With Tangy Yogurt Drizzle
Conclusion
I hope you enjoy making this Classic Creamy Chicken Florentine as much as I do! It’s a dish that brings warmth and comfort with every bite, perfect for sharing with loved ones. I’d love to hear how your version turned out, so feel free to leave a comment or share your own tips and variations.
Happy cooking!
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Classic Creamy Chicken Florentine Recipe
Description
Hello, food lovers! Today, I’m excited to share with you a recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite: Classic Creamy Chicken Florentine. This dish brings together tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and a luscious cream sauce that’s full of rich flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something special for a weekend dinner, this recipe is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup all-purpose or gluten-free flour (for dietary restrictions)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 shallots, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced (or substitute with tomatoes)
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 4 ounces cream cheese (reduced-fat for a healthier option)
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or dry white wine
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Begin by pounding the thick parts of the chicken breasts or thighs to ensure even cooking. This will help the chicken cook uniformly, preventing any dry or undercooked spots.
- Season and Coat: Season the chicken with kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Then, lightly dredge each piece in flour, shaking off any excess. This step gives the chicken a nice golden crust when cooked.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides and fully cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes per side. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the finely chopped shallots and minced garlic. Sauté them until they’re fragrant, which should take about 2 minutes. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.
- Add the Bell Pepper: Toss in the diced red bell pepper (or tomatoes, if you prefer). Cook until the peppers are softened, adding a nice pop of color and flavor to the dish.
- Cook the Spinach: Stir in the fresh spinach, allowing it to wilt down. This should only take a few minutes.
- Create the Sauce: Lower the heat and add the cream cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until it’s melted and smooth, creating a rich base for the sauce.
- Combine Liquids: Pour in the half-and-half (or heavy cream) and chicken broth (or white wine), stirring to combine. Allow the sauce to simmer and thicken slightly.
- Return the Chicken: Place the cooked chicken back into the skillet, spooning the sauce over each piece. Let it simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors together.
- Finish with Parmesan: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken. Continue cooking until the cheese is melted and bubbly, adding an extra layer of flavor and creaminess.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Pounding the Chicken: Ensure even cooking by pounding the chicken to an even thickness. This step is crucial for a consistent texture throughout.
- Garlic Watch: Garlic can quickly turn from golden to burnt, which would give a bitter taste to your dish. Keep a close eye when sautéing.
