Indulge in a classic chicken florentine recipe that brings the richness of creamy spinach and tender chicken together in perfect harmony. This dish is not only satisfying but also visually appealing, making it a fantastic choice for dinner parties or family meals. With its blend of flavors and textures, chicken florentine is sure to impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds.
Ingredients
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups fresh spinach
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of chicken florentine contains approximately 450 calories, 30g of protein, 35g of fat, and 5g of carbohydrates. This nutritional value is based on a single serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
4. Sear chicken breasts for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
5. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
7. Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
8. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
9. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
10. Return chicken to the skillet, cover with sauce, and transfer to oven.
11. Bake for 15 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
12. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version. Spinach can be replaced with kale or Swiss chard for a different flavor profile.
Serving and Pairings
Chicken florentine pairs wonderfully with a side of rice, garlic bread, or a fresh garden salad. A glass of white wine complements this dish beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop. Chicken florentine can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcooking the chicken to prevent dryness.
– Don’t skip the seasoning; it enhances the flavor.
– Use fresh spinach for better taste and texture.
– Ensure the cream is at room temperature to prevent curdling.
– Avoid overcrowding the skillet when searing chicken.
Helpful Tips
– Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F/74°C).
– Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
– Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or feta.
– Add a pinch of nutmeg to the cream for extra flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
Is chicken florentine suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish reheats well, making it a great option for meal prep.
What can I serve with chicken florentine?
You can serve it with pasta, rice, or a side salad, enhancing the meal’s overall appeal.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream substitute along with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
How long does chicken florentine last in the fridge?
It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Conclusion
Chicken florentine is a delicious and elegant dish that combines tender chicken with creamy spinach sauce. It’s perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive gatherings. Enjoy this recipe and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills!
Chicken Florentine Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sear chicken breasts for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Return chicken to the skillet, cover with sauce, and transfer to oven.
- Bake for 15 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
