If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner, this Creamy Chicken Florentine is a perfect choice. With tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich, velvety sauce, it’s a dish that feels both comforting and elegant. Ideal for busy weeknights, it comes together easily and is sure to please everyone at the table. Let’s get started!
Steps
- Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create four thinner pieces. Season them with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and then coat each piece in flour.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and half of the butter over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown, then transfer to a plate.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic, cooking for about 30 seconds. Pour in the wine, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning, and cook until the liquid reduces noticeably.
- Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 2 minutes. Add the spinach to the skillet, stirring until it begins to wilt.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and continue to cook over medium heat for 4-5 minutes, ensuring the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens. Before serving, sprinkle with freshly grated parmesan cheese and adjust seasonings as needed.
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts, halved lengthwise
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Flour, for dredging
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter, divided
- 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
Nutritional Values
Calories: 2036kcal | Carbohydrates: 24g | Protein: 124g | Fat: 152g | Saturated Fat: 84g | Cholesterol: 720mg | Sodium: 1852mg | Potassium: 2416mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 10392IU | Vitamin C: 32mg | Calcium: 820mg | Iron: 4mg
FAQ
- What is Chicken Florentine?
- Chicken Florentine is a dish inspired by the culinary style of Florence, Italy, characterized by the inclusion of spinach. It typically involves chicken cooked in a creamy white wine sauce with spinach.
- Can I substitute the white wine in the recipe?
- Yes, if you don’t have white wine, you can replace it with an equal amount of chicken broth and add about 1/2 teaspoon of Dijon mustard for added flavor.
- How do I store leftovers of Chicken Florentine?
- Leftovers can be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Note that the spinach may wilt more over time.
- Can I freeze Chicken Florentine?
- It is not recommended to freeze this dish as the sauce may not retain its creamy texture upon thawing and reheating.
- What can I use instead of heavy cream?
- It is best not to substitute heavy cream with alternatives like half-and-half or milk, as the sauce might become too thin and could potentially curdle.
Tips
- Prepare Chicken Cutlets Evenly: Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thinner cutlets. This technique ensures the chicken cooks faster and more uniformly, resulting in tender and juicy pieces.
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: For the best taste and texture, grate your own Parmesan cheese. Pre-grated cheese often contains additives that can affect the sauce’s creaminess and flavor.
- Wine Substitute Tip: If you don’t have dry white wine available, substitute it with chicken broth and a small amount (about 1/2 teaspoon) of Dijon mustard to maintain flavor depth.
- Add Spinach at the Right Time: If you prefer your spinach less wilted, incorporate it during the last couple of minutes of cooking. This will help maintain its vibrant color and slight crunch.
Equipment
- Skillet (preferably non-stick or stainless steel)
- Garlic press or garlic mincer (for mincing fresh garlic)
- Meat tenderizer (optional, for flattening chicken cutlets)
- Cheese grater (for grating Parmesan cheese)
