Chicken Florentine

A traditional Italian dish called chicken fleurentine consists of soft chicken breasts covered in a rich sauce made with spinach and mushrooms. It’s the ideal option for a weekday supper or a special event because this dish is not only delicious but also quick and simple to make.

Tasting Notes

The Chicken Florentine boasts a harmonious blend of flavors, with the succulent chicken marrying the rich creaminess of the spinach and mushroom sauce. The dish is both comforting and elegant, making it a crowd-pleaser that will leave your taste buds delighted.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz baby spinach, washed and trimmed
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for a touch of warmth)

Kitchen Equipment

• Large skillet
• Tongs
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
2. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off any excess.
3. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
4. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
6. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until softened.
7. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and become golden brown.
8. Stir in the baby spinach and cook until wilted.
9. Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, and nutmeg (if using). Stir well to combine.
10. Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them.
11. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
12. Serve the Chicken Florentine over cooked pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.

Pro Tips

• For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream.
• Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese will give the sauce a richer flavor compared to pre-grated cheese.

Variations

• Experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as cremini or shiitake, for a unique flavor profile.
• Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for extra depth and complexity.
• Include sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of sweetness and tanginess.

FAQs