Chicken Florentine is one of those classic dishes that feels both elegant and comforting at the same time. Its rich, velvety sauce made from fresh spinach, garlic, and parmesan cheese hugs tender chicken breasts in a way that’s deeply satisfying without being heavy.
What draws people to this recipe is how effortlessly it transforms everyday ingredients into something special, perfect for weeknight dinners or casual dinner parties alike.
One challenge with creamy chicken recipes is getting the balance just right—too thick and it overwhelms, too thin and it lacks flavor. This recipe nails it by blending heavy cream with white wine and chicken broth, creating a silky sauce that’s light enough to let the spinach and parmesan shine through.
If you’re looking to round out your meal, a fresh Broccoli Cauliflower Salad adds a crisp, vibrant contrast, while a chilled Lemon Drop Martini offers a bright, citrusy complement to the richness on your plate.
This dish is trending because it combines comfort food vibes with a surprisingly wholesome profile—spinach adds iron and vitamins, while the creamy sauce satisfies cravings without excess carbs. In fact, many home cooks are turning to recipes like this as a delicious way to enjoy rich flavors while keeping meals balanced.
Give it a try—you might find this easy, flavorful recipe becoming your new weeknight favorite.
I’d love to hear how you make it your own!
Why I Love This Recipe (And You Will Too!)
- It’s a creamy comfort that feels light: Perfect for cozy nights when you want indulgence without heaviness.
- Simple ingredients, big impact: No fancy pantry needed, just fresh spinach and parmesan do the magic.
- Easy to customize: I’ve swapped chicken breasts for thighs or added mushrooms for an earthy twist.
- Fits well into balanced eating: The spinach boosts nutrients, and the sauce keeps you satisfied longer.
- Quick enough for weeknights: I appreciate meals that don’t take all evening but still impress.
Chicken Florentine Recipe
Equipment
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Tongs or Spatula
- Knife and Cutting Board
- Grater (for Parmesan cheese)
- Mixing bowl (optional, for dredging flour)
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts cut in half lengthwise
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt & 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 loosely packed fresh baby spinach
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Dredge lightly in flour.
- Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken until golden and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Pour in white wine and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in Italian seasoning, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over the top, and heat through for 2 minutes.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with extra parmesan or fresh herbs.
Nutrition
Variations To Elevate Your Chicken Florentine!
- Swap the chicken breasts for thighs if you prefer a juicier, more flavorful cut. The extra fat helps keep the meat tender and pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
- Add sautéed wild mushrooms like shiitake or cremini to the sauce for an earthy depth that complements the spinach beautifully without overpowering it.
- Finish the sauce with a splash of lemon juice or white balsamic vinegar at the end to brighten the rich creaminess and add a subtle tang that lifts the whole dish.
- Incorporate fresh herbs such as tarragon or thyme during the simmering step for an aromatic twist that enhances the Italian flavors without complicating the recipe.
- For a lighter version, substitute half the heavy cream with crème fraîche or Greek yogurt—this adds a slight tang and cuts some richness while keeping the sauce silky.
- Try grating a bit of nutmeg into the sauce; it’s a classic seasoning for creamy spinach dishes and adds a warm, comforting layer that’s easy to miss but noticeable when done right.
- Use baby kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for a heartier texture and a subtle bitterness that balances the creamy cheese sauce perfectly.
These variations keep the core of what makes Chicken Florentine so special, while letting you tailor it to your taste or occasion.
Quick Questions?
Q: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, just thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding to avoid a watery sauce.
Q: What’s a good white wine substitute if I don’t cook with alcohol?
Use extra chicken broth with a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
Q: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Make the sauce and chicken separately, then combine and reheat gently before serving.
Q: Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s low in carbs thanks to the cream and spinach, just skip the flour dredging or use almond flour.
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