This Creamy Chicken Florentine Skillet is a warm hug on a plate! With tender chicken, spinach, and a rich, creamy sauce, it’s full of comforting flavors.
I love how simple it is to whip up this dish when I’m short on time. Plus, who can resist a one-pan meal? Less dishes to wash means more time for dessert! 🍰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could use turkey breast instead. Alternatively, shredded rotisserie chicken can save you time!
Fresh Spinach: Baby spinach gives a fresh touch. If you don’t have it, you can use frozen spinach, just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the skillet.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, consider using half-and-half or a plant-based cream if you’re looking for dairy-free alternatives. Coconut cream works well, too, though it adds a subtle flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a lovely umami flavor. In case you’re out, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a vegan option) can work nicely as substitutes.
How Do I Cook Tender Chicken Without Drying It Out?
Cooking chicken perfectly can be tricky, but here are some tips to help you achieve juicy results:
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken. A meat thermometer can help; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- After seasoning, let the chicken rest at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook more evenly.
- Use medium-high heat to get that nice golden crust while keeping the inside moist. Flip the chicken only once to avoid losing juices.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Florentine Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 5 ounces fresh baby spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy chicken florentine takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. Perfect for a weeknight dinner when you’re craving something comforting yet quick!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This adds flavor from the get-go!
2. Cooking the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Making the Sauce:
In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until you can smell its lovely aroma. Next, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they soften up a bit.
4. Adding Spinach:
Now, add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook it until wilted, which should take about 2 minutes. Spinach cooks down quickly, so keep an eye on it!
5. Mixing in Cream and Cheese:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
6. Combining Everything:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon some sauce over them, and let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.
7. Garnishing:
Finally, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish before serving. It adds a pop of freshness!
Serving Suggestions:
This creamy chicken florentine goes wonderfully over pasta, rice, or even served with crusty bread for a delightful meal. Enjoy every creamy bite!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great substitute and will add even more flavor to the dish. Just be sure to cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
If you want a dairy-free version, you can replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. Just make sure to use a substitute for the Parmesan cheese as well, such as nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
What Should I Serve with Creamy Chicken Florentine?
This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or even mashed potatoes. For a lighter option, consider serving it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
You can definitely prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just cook the chicken fresh when you’re ready to assemble and serve to maintain the best flavor and texture!
