Name: Creamy Chicken Florentine Ready in Just 30 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Chicken Breast Cutlets (Pounded to ¼ inch thin); 1 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Pepper; 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour (Can substitute with gluten-free flour); 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Margarine can be used); 2 cloves Fresh Garlic (Minced); 1/2 cup Dry White Wine (Can substitute with chicken broth mixed with Dijon mustard); 1 cup Chicken Broth (Adjust for desired sauce consistency); 1/2 cup Heavy Cream (Avoid substituting with milk); 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (Use freshly grated); 4 cups Baby Spinach (Can substitute with other greens like kale)

The aroma of sizzling garlic wafts through the kitchen, instantly transporting me to a cozy Italian trattoria. Today, I’m thrilled to share my go-to weeknight wonder: 30-Minute Creamy Chicken Florentine. This dish features succulent chicken cutlets enveloped in a velvety, garlicky spinach sauce all cooked in just one pan—perfect for those chaotic evenings when time is precious. Not only is this recipe quick and easy, but it also offers that luxurious creamy indulgence we often crave from restaurant meals, all without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. Ready to elevate your dinner game and impress your family? Join me as we dive into the delicious world of Chicken Florentine, where comfort meets convenience. What will you serve alongside this creamy delight?

Why Is Chicken Florentine a Must-Try?

Simplicity at Its Best: This recipe requires minimal prep and clean-up, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.

Creamy Elegance: The rich, garlicky spinach sauce enveloping the chicken cutlets brings a touch of restaurant-level indulgence right to your table.

One-Pan Wonder: Experience the ease of cooking everything in a single skillet, keeping both your kitchen and your schedule mess-free.

Flavor Harmony: The combination of fresh spinach, chicken, and Parmesan creates a savory delight that your family and friends will rave about.

Quick Cooking: Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish allows you to spend less time cooking and more time enjoying quality moments with loved ones.

Pair this standout meal with some roasted potatoes or a side salad for a balanced dinner. Don’t forget to check out my Garlic Parmesan Chicken for another crowd-pleasing option!

Chicken Florentine Ingredients

• Get ready to create this delicious dish with these straightforward ingredients!

For the Chicken

Chicken Breast Cutlets – Lean protein for a filling meal; ensure they are pounded to ¼ inch thin for even cooking.
Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance the taste of the chicken.
All-Purpose Flour – Creates a golden crust on the chicken and helps thicken the sauce; gluten-free flour can be a substitute.

For the Sauce

Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to the creamy sauce; feel free to use margarine if preferred.
Fresh Garlic – Provides a stronger flavor than garlic powder, enhancing the sauce’s aroma.
Dry White Wine – Adds depth to the sauce; if you don’t have it, use chicken broth mixed with Dijon mustard.
Chicken Broth – Adds liquid and flavor; adjust the quantity based on your desired sauce consistency.
Heavy Cream – Creates a thick and creamy texture that makes the dish truly luxurious—avoid substituting with milk for best results.
Grated Parmesan Cheese – Offers richness and umami; always go for freshly grated to prevent grittiness.
Baby Spinach – Adds color and nutrients; other greens like kale can work as substitutes for a different twist.

With these ingredients on hand, you’ll be well on your way to making a delightful Chicken Florentine that the whole family will love!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Florentine

Step 1: Prepare Chicken
Begin by patting the chicken breast cutlets dry with paper towels, ensuring they’re free of moisture for a perfect sear. Season both sides generously with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Dredge each cutlet in all-purpose flour, coating them evenly. This step ensures a delicious golden crust, enhancing the Chicken Florentine’s texture. Set the prepared cutlets aside while you heat your skillet.

Step 2: Cook Chicken
Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes. Carefully add the flour-dredged chicken cutlets to the skillet, cooking for approximately 4 minutes on each side until they achieve a beautiful golden brown color. Once cooked through, the internal temperature should reach 165°F. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Step 3: Make Sauce
In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, allowing it to melt and become bubbly over medium heat. Add 2 cloves of minced fresh garlic, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being cautious not to let it burn. Pour in ½ cup of dry white wine, scraping any flavorful brown bits off the pan, and let it reduce by half, which should take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Stir in 1 cup of chicken broth and ½ cup of heavy cream into the skillet, mixing until well combined. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until it begins to thicken slightly, stirring occasionally. As the sauce cooks, add ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until fully melted and incorporated, which adds a rich depth to your Chicken Florentine.

Step 5: Add Spinach and Chicken
Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, toss in 4 cups of baby spinach, stirring until wilted, which should take about 1-2 minutes. Return the cooked chicken cutlets to the skillet, ensuring they’re submerged in the creamy sauce. Simmer everything together for an additional 2-3 minutes until the chicken is heated through and coated in that luscious garlicky sauce, making your Chicken Florentine vibrant and enticing.

What to Serve with 30-Minute Creamy Chicken Florentine

The rich flavors of this creamy dish create the perfect opportunity to build a lovely and satisfying meal experience.

Garlic Bread: A crusty, buttery garlic bread creates a delightful contrast to the creamy sauce, perfect for mopping up every last drop.
Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette adds a crisp element, balancing the richness of the Chicken Florentine.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Silky and buttery mashed potatoes offer comfort and a satisfying texture that pairs beautifully with the savory dish.
Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a pop of color and a touch of earthiness, enhancing the dish’s overall flavor profile.
Pasta: Serve the Chicken Florentine over a bed of your favorite pasta to soak up the luscious sauce and create a heartier meal.
Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables provides a warm and satisfying complement, adding sweetness and depth to your dinner plate.
A Glass of White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a buttery Chardonnay makes for a refreshing pairing that echoes the wine used in the sauce.
Lemon Sorbet: For a light dessert, a refreshing lemon sorbet cleanses the palate after enjoying the rich flavors of Chicken Florentine.

Expert Tips for Chicken Florentine

Thinly Sliced Chicken: Ensure your chicken cutlets are pounded to ¼ inch thick for even cooking, preventing any dryness or undercooking.
Use Fresh Garlic: For the best flavor, opt for freshly minced garlic over garlic powder; it enhances the dish’s aroma and taste wonderfully.
Cheese Matters: Always use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-packaged; it melts better and provides a smoother texture in your Chicken Florentine sauce.
Adjust Sauce Thickness: If your sauce turns out too thick, simply stir in more chicken broth. For a thicker consistency, add extra cream and cheese gradually.
Don’t Rush the Cooking: When cooking the chicken, allow it to develop a nice golden crust. This step adds flavor and texture that makes the Chicken Florentine irresistible.

Make Ahead Options

These Chicken Florentine meal prep tips are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the chicken cutlets, season them with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and dredge them in flour up to 24 hours in advance. To maintain quality, store the seasoned cutlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can mince the garlic and grate the Parmesan cheese ahead of time—keeping them ready to elevate your sauce when you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to serve, simply follow the cooking instructions, and you’ll enjoy the same delicious Chicken Florentine with minimal effort, ensuring a fabulous meal is just moments away!

Chicken Florentine Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative and tailor this Chicken Florentine to fit your taste and dietary preferences!

Add Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms alongside garlic for earthy flavor; their texture pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
Sundried Tomato Twist: Incorporate chopped sundried tomatoes for a burst of tangy sweetness that elevates the entire dish.
Boneless Chicken Thighs: Substitute chicken breast with thighs for a juicier, richer flavor; adjust cooking time as needed.
Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for a creamy vegan version.
Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like thyme or basil right at the end to add a bright, fragrant element to your sauce.
Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes for a gentle kick. Adjust the amount to suit your heat preference, making this dish even more exciting.
Zucchini Noodles: Serve this Chicken Florentine over spiralized zucchini for a lighter, low-carb option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken: For an even cheesier experience, check out my Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe for another delightful twist on flavors.

Each of these variations will give your Chicken Florentine a fresh twist while still keeping that beloved creamy goodness! Enjoy the journey and let your culinary creativity shine!

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Florentine

Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Florentine in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce thickens.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze Chicken Florentine in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain texture and flavor.

Reheating: When reheating, do so over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the sauce is too thick, add a little heavy cream or chicken broth to loosen it up.

Meal Prep: This dish can be prepped ahead, making it a great option for busy weeks. Prepare the chicken and sauce components in advance, then combine and heat when ready to serve.

Chicken Florentine Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for Chicken Florentine?
Absolutely! It’s best to use thinly sliced chicken breast cutlets, ideally pounded to ¼ inch thick for even cooking. This ensures that the chicken cooks quickly and remains juicy. You can also use boneless chicken thighs if you prefer a different texture, but be mindful that they may require a slightly longer cooking time.

How should I store leftover Chicken Florentine?
Very simple! Store any leftover Chicken Florentine in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the sauce has thickened, just add a splash of chicken broth to restore its creamy goodness.

Can I freeze Chicken Florentine?
Absolutely! You can indeed freeze Chicken Florentine for longer storage. Just place it in a freezer-safe container and it will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. To reheat, do so over low heat on the stovetop while stirring occasionally, adding a bit of cream or chicken broth if the sauce seems too thick.

What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
No worries! If you find that your sauce has thickened more than you like, you can easily adjust it. Simply add a little chicken broth, a tablespoon at a time, while stirring over low heat until the desired consistency is reached. This keeps the creamy texture while making it easier to pour over your chicken and sides.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Good question! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, you can make suitable alternatives. For gluten-free diets, swap out all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, if lactose is a concern, substitute heavy cream with a lactose-free cream or a plant-based cream alternative for a similar texture and flavor.

What can I serve with Chicken Florentine?
The more the merrier! This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serving it over pasta or alongside roasted potatoes complements its creamy texture beautifully. You could also add a light side salad to balance out the richness, making for a wholesome meal everyone will enjoy.

Enjoy your delicious cooking adventure with Chicken Florentine!