Rooted in Italian and French cuisine, chicken Florentine is rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. Tender, pan-seared chicken breasts simmer in a luxurious, creamy spinach sauce that will have you coming back for more. This dish is classic comfort food with a sophisticated touch, making it perfect for a cozy night in, yet elegant enough to serve at a dinner party.
Recipe for Creamy Chicken Florentine
Ingredients:
- 2 large boneless, skinless TBS chicken breasts (cut in half lengthwise)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional for extra depth)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (optional for added sweetness and tang)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
2. Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the skillet. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
4. Create the Creamy Base
Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Add the Spinach and Tomatoes
Stir in the chopped spinach and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for another 2 minutes until the spinach wilts.
6. Combine Everything
Return the chicken to the skillet and let it simmer in the sauce for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Serve over pasta, rice, or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh spinach: Fresh spinach gives the best flavor and texture. If using frozen spinach, make sure to drain it well.
- Lemon Garlic Florentine: Squeeze fresh lemon juice and add extra garlic for a bright, zesty twist.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with a light green salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Comforting Classics Come from The Butcher Shop
Creamy chicken Florentine is a timeless dish full of comforting flavors. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or try a fun variation, you’ll find all the quality ingredients you need at The Butcher Shop. From natural, locally sourced meats to fresh produce and freshly baked bread, TBS helps you put the finest, freshest ingredients on your family’s table at prices that won’t break your budget. Stop by today or call ahead to pre-order your ingredients.