If you’re craving something rich, comforting, and still quick enough for a weeknight, this Chicken Florentine is calling your name. Tender chicken breasts are nestled into a creamy, garlicky Parmesan sauce and finished with heaps of fresh spinach—because balance, right?
This classic Italian chicken dinner is luxurious without being fussy, making it perfect for when you want to impress (your family, your date, or just yourself) but don’t want to spend all evening cooking. Best part? It’s a true quick chicken dinner—on the table in 30 minutes flat.
Whether you pair it with pasta, rice, or your favorite crusty bread, this dish is pure comfort with a touch of sophistication.
Why You’ll Love Chicken Florentine
- Creamy, savory sauce that tastes like restaurant-quality
- A satisfying way to sneak in a big helping of spinach
- Minimal prep, one skillet, easy cleanup
- Done in 30 minutes—faster than takeout
- It’s a cozy, creamy chicken recipe that’s still fresh and vibrant
Chicken Florentine
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Chicken Florentine is a creamy, elegant Italian chicken dinner made in just 30 minutes. Golden seared chicken breasts are simmered in a garlicky Parmesan cream sauce with fresh spinach, creating a dish that’s rich, comforting, and restaurant-worthy—yet simple enough for a busy weeknight.
Ingredients
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lb / 680 g)
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2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil
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2 tbsp (28 g) butter
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth
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1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
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½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
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6 cups (180 g) fresh spinach (about 6 oz / 170 g)
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1 tsp (2 g) Italian seasoning
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
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Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
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Sear chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F / 74°C). Remove and set aside.
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Add garlic to skillet, sauté for 1 minute. Deglaze with chicken broth, scraping browned bits.
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Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan. Simmer 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
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Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
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Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over the top, and simmer for another 2–3 minutes.
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Serve hot with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
Notes
Pound chicken to even thickness for quicker cooking.
Add extra garlic for stronger flavor.
For lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half for cream.
Not ideal for freezing—the sauce may separate.
Great with mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes added.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet / One-pan
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lb / 680 g)
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil
- 2 tbsp (28 g) butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 6 cups (180 g) fresh spinach (about 6 oz / 170 g)
- 1 tsp (2 g) Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season & Sear: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot and sizzling.
- Cook the Chicken: Add chicken to the skillet and sear for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp should be 165°F / 74°C). Remove chicken and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Pour in chicken broth, scraping up the browned bits for extra flavor.
- Creamy Goodness: Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan. Let it simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Add the Greens: Toss in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted—about 2 minutes.
- Bring It All Together: Return the chicken to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the top and let everything simmer together for another 2–3 minutes.
- Serve & Enjoy: Serve hot with pasta, rice, or warm bread to soak up that amazing sauce.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Florentine
- Pound your chicken to even thickness for quicker, more even cooking.
- Don’t rush the searing—let the chicken get golden for that extra flavor boost.
- Fresh spinach wilts fast, so add it last and don’t overcook.
- Want it extra garlicky? Add another clove or two—you’re the boss.
- For a lighter version, try using half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
A Little Dinner Table Backstory
This dish became a staple for me one spring when I was trying to eat more greens but still wanted food that felt cozy and satisfying. It’s one of those recipes that feels like you did something special, even though it takes less than half an hour.
The first time I made it, my husband paused mid-bite and said, “You could charge $18 for this.” And listen, I’ll take that kind of compliment over roses any day.
Now, it’s my go-to when I want something a little fancy but still have laundry to fold and emails to answer. Real life, right?
What to Serve with Chicken Florentine
- A bed of fettuccine or linguine to soak up the sauce
- Steamed rice or buttery mashed potatoes
- Crusty bread for sopping every last drop
- A simple arugula or Caesar salad on the side
- Roasted veggies for extra color and crunch
How to Store Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
- Not ideal for freezing: The cream sauce can separate, but you can prep the chicken ahead and finish the sauce fresh.
This dish is even better the next day—if you have any left.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Just adjust cooking time since thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
Can I make this dairy-free?
You can try coconut cream and dairy-free Parmesan, but it will change the flavor. Still delicious, just different.
Is this keto-friendly?
Yes! Skip the pasta and serve with roasted veggies or cauliflower mash for a low-carb option.
Can I add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes?
Absolutely! Mushrooms add umami, and sun-dried tomatoes give a sweet-tangy punch.
A Creamy Chicken Recipe That Never Fails
If you’re in the mood for something fast, flavorful, and just a little bit fancy, this Chicken Florentine is ready to be your new weeknight favorite. With its velvety sauce, fresh spinach, and golden seared chicken, it’s the kind of Italian chicken dinner that feels like a warm hug.
So next time you’re staring into your fridge, wondering what to make with those chicken breasts—give this one a try. It’s elegance, ease, and comfort all on one plate.
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