Description
Chicken Florentine Recipe
Ingredients
Chicken:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Florentine Sauce:
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
2 cups (60 g) fresh baby spinach
Garnish:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Prepare Chicken:
Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Florentine Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and nutmeg. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes, until slightly thickened.
Add Spinach:
Add the baby spinach to the sauce and cook until wilted (1-2 minutes).
Combine and Serve:
Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over the chicken, and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to absorb flavors.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
#ChickenFlorentine #CreamyDelight #ComfortFood
Step-by-Step Guide
For perfect results, follow these detailed steps. First, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Use a meat mallet to pound them to an even 1/2-inch thickness for uniform cooking. When searing, do not move the chicken for the first 4-5 minutes to develop a golden crust. For the sauce, keep the heat at medium after adding the cream to prevent it from breaking or scalding. Whisk constantly as you add the Parmesan to create a smooth, velvety texture. The spinach will wilt quickly; stir it in just until it collapses into the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and creamy dish pairs beautifully with sides that can soak up the luxurious sauce. Serve it over a bed of fettuccine, angel hair pasta, or creamy mashed potatoes. For a lighter option, try it with steamed asparagus, roasted green beans, or a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A crusty baguette is also essential for mopping up every last bit of sauce from the plate.
How-to Summary
In summary, Chicken Florentine is a restaurant-quality meal made simple: sear seasoned chicken breasts until golden, then set aside. In the same pan, create a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce, wilt fresh spinach into it, and return the chicken to simmer briefly. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately with your chosen sides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen spinach? Yes, but be sure to thaw and thoroughly squeeze out all excess water first to prevent a watery sauce.
How can I make this dish lighter? Substitute half the heavy cream with whole milk or half-and-half, though the sauce will be slightly less thick. You can also use a lighter cheese like Pecorino Romano.
What if my sauce is too thin? Let it simmer a few minutes longer to reduce. For a quick thickener, create a slurry with 1 teaspoon of cornstarch and 1 tablespoon of cold water, then whisk it into the simmering sauce.
Can I prepare this ahead of time? You can prepare the components, but for best results, assemble and serve immediately. Reheating can cause the cream sauce to separate.
What’s a good substitute for Italian seasoning? Use a blend of dried oregano, basil, thyme, and a pinch of rosemary.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Skillet: Sear chicken in batches if necessary to avoid steaming instead of browning.
- High Heat for the Sauce: Cooking the cream sauce over high heat can cause it to curdle or burn. Keep it at a gentle simmer.
- Using Pre-Grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. Always grate fresh Parmesan for a smooth melt.
- Overcooking the Spinach: Add spinach last and wilt just until soft. Overcooking makes it mushy and can release too much water.
Conclusion
This Chicken Florentine recipe is a timeless classic that delivers elegance and comfort in one pan. With its tender chicken, creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce, and vibrant spinach, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels special yet is straightforward to prepare. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can master this dish and make it a regular in your dinner rotation. Enjoy the delicious results of your culinary effort!