Name: Chicken Florentine
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, for dredging; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup white wine (or chicken broth); 1 1/2 cups heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 4 cups baby spinach; Fresh parsley, for garnish

This creamy skillet Chicken Florentine is a comforting, flavorful dish that features seared chicken breasts nestled in a rich, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce with tender baby spinach. It’s an easy, one-pan recipe that’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home yet elegant enough for entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this dish because it’s fast, satisfying, and deeply flavorful. The creamy sauce made with garlic, white wine (or broth), and Parmesan coats the chicken beautifully, while the spinach adds a nutritious, fresh balance. It’s perfect for weeknights but fancy enough to serve for guests. Plus, it comes together in just about half an hour—all in one skillet.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/2 cup all-purpose flour, for dredging

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup white wine (or chicken broth)

1 1/2 cups heavy cream

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

4 cups baby spinach

Fresh parsley, for garnish

Directions

I start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then dredge them lightly in flour, shaking off any excess.

In a large skillet, I heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken for about 4–5 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked through. Once done, I transfer the chicken to a plate.

Using the same skillet, I reduce the heat to medium and sauté the garlic for about a minute until it’s fragrant. I then pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) to deglaze the pan, scraping up the flavorful browned bits.

Next, I stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan, Dijon mustard, onion powder, and red pepper flakes. I let it simmer for 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens nicely.

Then, I add the baby spinach and stir until it wilts down.

Finally, I return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over the top, and let it simmer for another 2–3 minutes so everything is heated through. A sprinkle of fresh parsley finishes it off before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Calories per serving: 480 kcal

Variations

I sometimes switch up this recipe depending on what I have on hand. I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for more flavor and juiciness. If I want a low-carb version, I skip the flour dredging. For a touch of brightness, I squeeze in a little lemon juice at the end. And when I’m feeling indulgent, I serve it over fettuccine or mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce needs loosening. Microwaving works too, but I do it in short bursts to avoid overcooking the chicken.

Related Recipes:

Vegetable Beef Soup

FAQs

What is Chicken Florentine?

Chicken Florentine is a dish that typically features chicken cooked with spinach in a creamy sauce. The term “Florentine” refers to dishes made in the style of Florence, Italy, usually involving spinach and a rich cream base.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, I can make a dairy-free version by using plant-based butter, cream alternatives (like cashew or coconut cream), and nutritional yeast or dairy-free Parmesan-style cheese.

What can I use instead of white wine?

I like to substitute chicken broth if I don’t have white wine on hand. It gives great flavor and keeps the dish non-alcoholic.

Can I freeze Chicken Florentine?

I don’t recommend freezing it, as creamy sauces can separate when thawed and reheated. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge for a few days.

What should I serve with Chicken Florentine?

I usually pair this with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. It also goes well with roasted vegetables or a side of crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Conclusion

This Chicken Florentine recipe is a go-to for me when I want something comforting, creamy, and packed with flavor. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but delicious enough to impress guests. With its one-skillet convenience and versatile flavor, I find myself coming back to it again and again.

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