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This Chicken Florentine recipe features tender chicken breasts coated in a savory Parmesan crust, simmered in a creamy garlic sauce with fresh spinach. Perfect for dinner, itu2019s easy to make with simple ingredients like cream cheese, white wine, and Italian seasoning. A versatile dish that pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or vegetables, itu2019s a flavorful option for weeknight meals or special occasions.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter

Chicken Dredge:

1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon pepper
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
½ cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup Parmesan cheese, finely shredded
1 teaspoon garlic powder

Florentine Sauce:

4 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ cups white wine or chicken broth
1 cup half and half
⅓ cup softened cream cheese
3 cups fresh spinach
½ fresh lemon or 1.5 tablespoons lemon juice (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:
- Place a sheet of plastic wrap over each chicken breast and use a meat tenderizer to pound it to an even thickness of about ½ inch. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
- Combine the dredge ingredients (salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, flour, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder) in a shallow dish. Coat each chicken breast in the mixture, shaking off excess.
Cook the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cover the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. If necessary, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Set the chicken aside.
Deglaze the Pan:
- Turn off the heat and add the wine or chicken broth to the skillet. Set the heat to medium and use a silicone spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom and sides of the pan. This will add depth to the sauce. Let the liquid reduce by half (about 6-7 minutes). Add the minced garlic during the last minute of this process.
Prepare the Sauce:
- Warm the half and half in the microwave for about 40 seconds to temper it. Gradually add it to the skillet, stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a gentle bubble, then reduce the heat to low.
- Stir in the softened cream cheese until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
- Add the spinach and stir until it wilts. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice if desired for a brighter flavor.
Combine and Serve:
- Return the cooked chicken and any accumulated juices to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the chicken, cover, and heat through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic Elegance: Combines rich, creamy sauce with tender chicken for a timeless dish.
Nutritious Spinach: Adds a fresh, healthy element to the meal.
Customizable: Easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.

Tips

Even Cooking: Pound the chicken to an even thickness to ensure uniform cooking.
Deglazing: Scraping the skillet after cooking the chicken ensures maximum flavor in the sauce.
Tempering Half and Half: Warming it prevents curdling when added to the hot pan.
Adjusting Sauce Thickness: Let the sauce simmer longer for a thicker consistency or add a splash of broth to thin it out.

Variations and Substitutions

Protein: Substitute chicken with turkey cutlets or pork chops.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream or almond milk and dairy-free cream cheese.
Wine Substitute: Replace wine with extra chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.
Vegetables: Add mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichokes for extra flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, thaw and drain frozen spinach thoroughly before adding it to the sauce.

What can I serve with Chicken Florentine?
Pair it with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking.

Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the chicken and sauce separately. Combine and reheat just before serving.

Serving and Suggestions

Serve with buttered noodles, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.
Add a side of mixed greens or a Caesar salad to balance the richness of the dish.