Creamy Chicken Florentine

Introduction

Creamy Chicken Florentine is a rich, comforting dish featuring tender chicken breasts smothered in a creamy, garlic-infused sauce with Parmesan cheese and fresh spinach. This dish is ideal for a cozy dinner, offering a blend of savory flavors with a hint of brightness from lemon juice.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce:

• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• 4 cups fresh baby spinach
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and scrape the browned bits from the skillet to deglaze. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
3. Add the Cream and Spinach: Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Dijon mustard (if using). Simmer for 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Add spinach and cook until wilted, stirring occasionally. Add crushed red pepper flakes if desired.
4. Combine the Chicken and Sauce: Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon some of the creamy spinach sauce over the top. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to let the chicken absorb the flavors.
5. Finish and Serve: Stir in lemon juice and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic for added flavor and texture.
• Use Different Greens: Substitute spinach with kale or Swiss chard.
• Make It Spicy: Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid curdling the cream. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce is too thick.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, chicken thighs work well in this recipe and will add extra richness.
2. Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and reheat before serving.
3. Can I freeze this dish? Yes, but the texture of the cream may change upon freezing and thawing.
4. Can I use low-fat cream or milk? You can use lower-fat options, but the sauce may not be as rich and creamy.
5. Can I make this dish without Parmesan cheese? Yes, you can omit the Parmesan or use a different type of cheese like Gruyère.
6. What can I serve with this dish? This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
7. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked? Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F.
8. Can I use pre-cooked chicken? Yes, just add the pre-cooked chicken to the sauce and simmer until heated through.
9. Can I use dried spinach instead of fresh? Fresh spinach is preferred for its texture and flavor, but you can use dried spinach if rehydrated.
10. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe? Yes, substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Florentine is a delightful, comforting meal that combines tender chicken with a luscious, creamy sauce infused with garlic, Parmesan, and fresh spinach. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress with its rich flavors and satisfying texture.

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