Name: Creamy Chicken Florentine in One Pan: Dinner Made Easy
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts; 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour (Gluten-free flour works as a substitute.); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; 2 tablespoons Olive Oil; 2 tablespoons Butter (Use high-quality for best taste.); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Fresh garlic can be used.); 1/2 cup Dry White Wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio recommended.); 1 cup Chicken Broth (Substitute with broth if avoiding alcohol.); 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning; 1 cup Heavy Cream (Use half-and-half for a lighter option.); 4 cups Fresh Baby Spinach (Frozen can be used when thawed and drained.); 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (Use freshly grated for best melt.)

When the week becomes a frantic race against time, I find solace in a dish that feels indulgent yet is astonishingly simple to prepare. Enter my Easy One-Pan Chicken Florentine, where golden, pan-seared chicken meets a luxurious garlic and spinach cream sauce. The first time I whipped this up, my kitchen transformed into a cozy Italian bistro, complete with the rich scent of sautéed garlic wafting through the air. Picture this: tender chicken resting in a velvety sauce, complemented by fresh spinach and a sprinkle of Parmesan that melts into creamy perfection.

This recipe isn’t just about convenience; it’s about creating a meal that brings comfort and joy to the table, whether it’s a casual family dinner or an elegant gathering. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can craft a restaurant-quality dish in under 40 minutes. So, are you ready to elevate your dinner game and treat your taste buds? Let’s dive into this delicious culinary adventure!

Why is Chicken Florentine a must-try?

Simplicity at its finest: This one-pan recipe means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. Rich, Creamy Sauce: The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates an irresistible taste that will have everyone asking for seconds. Quick Cooking Time: In under 40 minutes, you can whip up a gourmet dish, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests. Versatile Ingredients: Use fresh baby spinach or even substitute it with arugula for a unique twist. Crowd-Pleasing: With its elegant appearance and comforting flavors, this Chicken Florentine is sure to impress family and friends alike. Plus, if you’re looking for more quick and delicious meals, check out our one-pan wonders.

Chicken Florentine Ingredients

• Ready to create a creamy, dreamy dish?

For the Chicken

Chicken Breasts – Boneless and skinless pieces that cook quickly, perfect for busy nights.
All-Purpose Flour – Dredging the chicken gives it a crispy exterior; gluten-free flour works as a great substitute.
Salt & Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance the chicken’s natural flavors.

For the Sauce

Olive Oil – Perfect for searing the chicken and achieving a golden crust.
Butter – Adds richness to the sauce; opt for high-quality butter for the best taste.
Garlic Powder – A handy flavor booster; fresh garlic can elevate the dish even more.
Dry White Wine – Introduces acidity and depth; Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio is ideal; chicken broth is a great alcohol-free substitute.
Chicken Broth – Acts as the sauce base and intensifies the overall flavor profile.
Italian Seasoning – A blend of herbs that captures classic Italian flavors.
Heavy Cream – Provides a luscious, creamy texture; feel free to use half-and-half for a lighter option.

For the Vegetables & Garnish

Fresh Baby Spinach – A colorful, nutritious addition; frozen spinach can be used when thawed and drained.
Parmesan Cheese – Always use freshly grated for the smoothest melt and creaminess to finish your Chicken Florentine.

With these simple ingredients, you’re just moments away from a comforting, high-quality meal at home. Enjoy every luscious bite!

How to Make Chicken Florentine

Prepare the Chicken: Start by cutting the chicken breasts in half horizontally to ensure quick cooking. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper before dredging them in flour for a crunchy exterior.
Sear the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil along with 1 tablespoon of butter. Once hot, cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
Create the Sauce: With the skillet still hot, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, which should take about 30 seconds, filling your kitchen with delicious scents.
Deglaze: Pour in the white wine, chicken broth, and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Let this mixture simmer for 3-5 minutes to reduce and concentrate the flavors.
Finish the Sauce: Add the heavy cream to the pan and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Then, toss in the spinach, allowing it to wilt and blend beautifully into the sauce.
Combine: Return the chicken to the skillet and let everything simmer together for 4-5 minutes on medium heat until the chicken is fully cooked through.
Serve: Finally, serve your Chicken Florentine topped with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the ultimate finish.

Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon for extra brightness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Chicken Florentine?

As you savor every bite of this deliciously creamy dish, consider these delightful pairings to elevate your dining experience.

Pasta Primavera: Serve atop a bed of al dente pasta filled with fresh vegetables, enhancing the meal’s freshness and adding an extra layer of flavor.
Garlic Bread: A crusty piece of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up that luscious sauce, adding a comforting crunch to each bite.
Roasted Asparagus: Tender roasted asparagus adds a delightful crunch and vibrant green color, complementing the creamy richness of the Chicken Florentine perfectly.
Crispy Salad: A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish and brings refreshing textures to the table.
Savory Risotto: Creamy risotto infused with herbs creates a luxurious base for the chicken, making each mouthful a triumph of flavor.
White Wine Spritzer: Pair your meal with a chilled white wine spritzer for a refreshing contrast to the creamy sauce and a light, bubbly note.
Lemon Sorbet: End your dinner on a bright note with a scoop of lemon sorbet to cleanse the palate and keep your meal feeling light.

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Florentine

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid separating the cream sauce.

Freezer: Chicken Florentine can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container, ensuring to leave room for expansion.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to restore creaminess.

Note: When storing, avoid freezing any ingredients like spinach to maintain the best texture when reheating Chicken Florentine.

Chicken Florentine Variations

Feel free to get creative with this scrumptious recipe, tailoring it to fit your taste buds and dietary needs!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour for dredging, ensuring a crispy exterior without the gluten.
Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a creamy, dairy-free delight.
Vegetable Boost: Add roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts for an extra layer of flavor and heartiness. These veggies will complement the creamy sauce beautifully!
Protein-Rich: Boost the protein by adding chickpeas or cannellini beans, creating a meal that’s satisfying and nutritious. They offer a creamy texture that matches perfectly with the existing flavors.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for those who enjoy a little heat in their meals. Every bite will have an exciting zing!
Herb Infusion: Enhance the dish by adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley just before serving, providing a fresh burst of flavor that elevates the entire dish.
Citrus Zest: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of zest at the end brings brightness to the rich sauce, making everything pop with flavor!
Pasta Addition: Serve the Chicken Florentine over cooked pasta or quinoa to turn a delicious dish into an even heartier meal, soaking up all that creamy goodness.

Embrace your culinary creativity and transform this Chicken Florentine into your very own signature dish!

Make Ahead Options

These Chicken Florentine preparations allow busy home cooks to save time during the week! You can season and dredge the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerating it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. Additionally, you can make the creamy garlic sauce and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days—just ensure it cools fully before transferring it to the container. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce gently over low heat and prepare the chicken as instructed. This way, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time, allowing you to enjoy restaurant-quality fare with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Chicken Florentine

Perfectly Golden Chicken: Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken; this helps achieve that coveted golden crust without drying it out.
Creamy Consistency: For the best creamy texture in your sauce, add the heavy cream at the end and avoid boiling it vigorously.
Don’t Skip Seasoning: Properly season both the chicken and the sauce with salt and pepper to ensure a balanced taste throughout your Chicken Florentine.
Test for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C); this prevents overcooking and dryness.
Customize Your Greens: Feel free to swap out baby spinach for kale or arugula. Just ensure you cook them until they’re tender for the best flavor.

Chicken Florentine Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken works best for Chicken Florentine?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the best choice for Chicken Florentine, as they cook quickly and result in tender, juicy meat. Make sure to cut them in half horizontally to expedite the cooking process. If you prefer darker meat for extra flavor, you can certainly use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead—just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

How should I store leftover Chicken Florentine?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid separating the creamy sauce. If needed, a splash of chicken broth can help bring back the sauce’s silkiness. Enjoy those tempting flavors all over again!

Can I freeze Chicken Florentine?
Yes, you can freeze Chicken Florentine for up to 2 months! To do this, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container, making sure to leave some space for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it on the stovetop over low heat. If the sauce appears too thick, simply add a bit of chicken broth to restore its creamy texture.

What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce turns out thicker than desired, don’t fret! You can easily revive it by whisking in a little warm chicken broth or additional cream until you reach your preferred consistency. Just remember to stir well and reheat gently to integrate everything smoothly.

Is there a gluten-free option for Chicken Florentine?
Very much so! To make Chicken Florentine gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour used for dredging the chicken with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. This will still give you that wonderful crispy exterior while keeping your dish safe and delicious for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! If you’re opting for frozen spinach, just make sure to thaw it and drain off any excess water before adding it to the sauce. This will help maintain that lovely creamy texture of your Chicken Florentine without it becoming too watery. Fresh spinach is delightful, but frozen can work wonders too!