Chicken Florentine: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Chicken Florentine, a dish that marries the richness of creamy sauce with the earthy goodness of spinach, is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Have you ever wondered how such a simple combination of ingredients could create such an elegant and flavorful experience? I certainly have! This recipe isn’t just about putting food on the table; it’s about creating a moment, a memory, a delicious escape from the ordinary.

While the exact origins of Chicken Florentine are debated, its name clearly points to its Italian inspiration. “Florentine” signifies that spinach is a key component, a nod to the lush green fields of Tuscany. Over time, this dish has evolved, adapting to different palates and culinary preferences, but the core elements remain: tender chicken breasts, a luscious cream sauce, and, of course, plenty of vibrant spinach.

People adore Chicken Florentine for its delightful balance of flavors and textures. The creamy sauce, often infused with garlic and Parmesan cheese, coats the chicken and spinach in a velvety embrace. The spinach adds a subtle earthiness that cuts through the richness, while the chicken provides a satisfying protein base. It’s a dish that feels both comforting and sophisticated, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, making it a winner in my book!

Ingredients:

• Chicken Breasts: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
• Fresh Spinach: 10 ounces, washed and thoroughly dried
• Ricotta Cheese: 15 ounces, whole milk or part-skim
• Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, freshly grated, plus more for topping
• Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup, shredded
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Onion: ½ medium, finely chopped
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, plus more for drizzling
• Heavy Cream: ½ cup
• Butter: 2 tablespoons
• All-Purpose Flour: 2 tablespoons
• Chicken Broth: 1 cup
• Dry White Wine: ½ cup (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, optional)
• Nutmeg: ¼ teaspoon, ground
• Salt: To taste
• Black Pepper: To taste, freshly ground
• Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon
• Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon, fresh

Preparing the Spinach and Ricotta Filling

1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
2. Wilt the Spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet in batches. It will seem like a lot at first, but it wilts down quickly. Cook, stirring frequently, until all the spinach is wilted and tender, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Drain Excess Moisture: Transfer the wilted spinach to a colander and press out as much excess moisture as possible. This is crucial to prevent a watery filling. You can use the back of a spoon or your hands (once it’s cool enough to handle).
4. Chop the Spinach: Roughly chop the drained spinach and place it in a medium-sized mixing bowl.
5. Combine the Filling Ingredients: Add the ricotta cheese, ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and lemon juice to the bowl with the spinach. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. I usually add a little extra Parmesan for a richer flavor.

Preparing the Chicken Breasts

1. Pound the Chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a resealable plastic bag. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken to an even thickness of about ½ inch. This helps the chicken cook evenly and makes it easier to roll.
2. Season the Chicken: Season both sides of each chicken breast with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it really enhances the flavor.

Stuffing and Rolling the Chicken

1. Spread the Filling: Place a generous amount of the spinach and ricotta filling (about ¼ of the mixture) onto each flattened chicken breast, spreading it evenly over the surface, leaving a small border around the edges.
2. Roll the Chicken: Carefully roll up each chicken breast, starting from one end and rolling tightly to form a cylinder. Secure the seam with toothpicks or kitchen twine to prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking. I find toothpicks easier to use, but twine looks more elegant.

Making the Cream Sauce

1. Melt the Butter: In the same skillet you used for the spinach (wipe it clean first), melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Make a Roux: Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture forms a smooth paste (a roux). This will help thicken the sauce.
3. Gradually Add Liquids: Slowly pour in the chicken broth and white wine (if using), whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
4. Simmer and Thicken: Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Continue to cook, stirring, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
6. Season the Sauce: Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth.

Cooking the Chicken Florentine

1. Sear the Chicken (Optional): For extra flavor and a nice golden-brown crust, you can sear the rolled chicken breasts before baking. Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in the skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken on all sides until lightly browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step is optional, but I highly recommend it.
2. Place Chicken in Baking Dish: Transfer the seared (or unseared) chicken rolls to a lightly greased baking dish.
3. Pour Sauce Over Chicken: Pour the prepared cream sauce evenly over the chicken rolls in the baking dish.
4. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese over the sauce.
5. Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
6. Broil (Optional): For a more golden-brown and bubbly topping, you can broil the chicken for the last 1-2 minutes of baking, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning.
7. Rest: Remove the baking dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.

Serving Suggestions

1. Remove Toothpicks/Twine: Before serving, be sure to remove the toothpicks or kitchen twine from the chicken rolls.
2. Serve Hot: Serve the Chicken Florentine hot, spooning some of the creamy sauce over each serving.
3. Garnish: Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
4. Side Dishes: This dish pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as:
   • Pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or angel hair)
   • Rice (white or brown)
   • Mashed potatoes
   • Roasted vegetables (asparagus, broccoli, or green beans)
   • A simple green salad

Tips and Variations:

• Make it Ahead: You can assemble the chicken rolls and prepare the sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them just before baking.
• Use Different Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese in the filling or sauce. Fontina, provolone, or Gruyere would all be delicious.
• Add Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onion and garlic for an earthier flavor.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
• Lower Carb Option: Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb meal.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs perfectly with Chicken Florentine.

Conclusion:

So, there you have it! This Chicken Florentine recipe isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen. The creamy sauce, the tender chicken, and the vibrant spinach all come together in perfect harmony. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll understand why I’m so excited for you to try it. It’s a dish that feels both comforting and elegant, making it perfect for a casual family meal or even a slightly more special occasion.

But why is this recipe a must-try? Well, beyond the incredible taste, it’s surprisingly simple to make. We’ve broken down each step to ensure even beginner cooks can achieve restaurant-quality results. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra greens! Even the pickiest eaters in your family might just find themselves enjoying spinach when it’s enveloped in this luscious sauce. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a dish that’s both delicious and relatively healthy?

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Now, let’s talk about serving suggestions. I personally love serving this Chicken Florentine over a bed of perfectly cooked pasta – linguine or fettuccine work particularly well. The sauce clings beautifully to the noodles, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Alternatively, you could serve it with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice. For a lighter option, consider pairing it with a simple side salad or some roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of ways to customize this recipe to your liking. Want to add a little heat? A pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce will do the trick. Prefer a different type of cheese? Feel free to experiment with Gruyere, Parmesan, or even a little goat cheese for a tangy twist. You could also add some sliced mushrooms to the sauce for an earthier flavor, or incorporate sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of sweetness. If you are looking for a lower carb option, try serving it over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

Another great variation is to bake the Chicken Florentine. Simply transfer the chicken and sauce to a baking dish, top with a layer of mozzarella cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden brown. This adds a lovely cheesy crust that takes the dish to a whole new level. You could even add a layer of breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

Ultimately, the possibilities are endless! Don’t be afraid to get creative and put your own spin on this classic dish. The most important thing is to have fun in the kitchen and enjoy the process of creating something delicious.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and get cooking! I’m confident that you’ll love this Chicken Florentine as much as I do. And when you do try it, please, please, please share your experience with me! Leave a comment below, tag me on social media, or send me an email. I’m always eager to hear how my recipes turn out for others and to see the creative variations you come up with. Happy cooking!

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