Chicken Florentine Pasta is a rich, creamy, and elegant dish inspired by classic Italian flavors. Tender chicken, sautéed spinach, and perfectly cooked pasta are coated in a silky garlic cream sauce that feels both indulgent and comforting. Despite its restaurant-quality taste, this dish is surprisingly simple to prepare at home, making it ideal for weeknight dinners as well as special occasions. The balance of protein, greens, and creamy sauce creates a satisfying meal that is both hearty and refined.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it transforms everyday ingredients into something truly special. The creamy sauce clings beautifully to the pasta, the chicken stays juicy, and the spinach adds freshness that balances the richness. It’s a dependable recipe that always impresses without requiring complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients.
Why This Is a Must-Try Dish
This is a must-try dish because it delivers comfort, elegance, and flavor all in one bowl. It’s versatile, family-friendly, and perfect for anyone who loves creamy pasta dishes. Whether you are cooking for guests or making a cozy dinner at home, Chicken Florentine Pasta is guaranteed to satisfy.
Preparation Time, Cooking Time, Servings, and Nutrition
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Approximate Calories: 560 per serving
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or linguine)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Cooking Directions
Cook pasta until al dente, sauté seasoned chicken until golden, prepare a creamy garlic sauce, wilt spinach into the sauce, and toss everything together until well combined.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Season chicken slices with salt and black pepper.
Step 3: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden and fully cooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 4: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 5: Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 6: Add Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 7: Add fresh spinach and cook until just wilted.
Step 8: Return the chicken to the skillet and add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until well coated in the sauce.
How to Serve This Recipe
Serve Chicken Florentine Pasta hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked black pepper. Pair it with garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Recipe Tips
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smooth sauce texture.
- Do not overcook the spinach; it should just wilt into the sauce.
- Reserve a little pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.
- Slice chicken evenly to ensure even cooking.
Variations
- Mushroom Chicken Florentine: Add sautéed mushrooms for extra depth of flavor.
- Sun-Dried Tomato Version: Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist.
- Lightened-Up Version: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and reduce cheese slightly.
- Seafood Florentine: Replace chicken with shrimp or scallops for a seafood variation.
Freezing and Storage Time
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently to avoid separating the sauce.
Special Equipment Needed
- Large pot for pasta
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Colander
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Conclusion
Chicken Florentine Pasta is a creamy, comforting, and flavorful dish that brings restaurant-style elegance to your home kitchen. With tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a luscious cream sauce, it’s a recipe that feels indulgent yet approachable. Perfect for both weeknights and special dinners, this dish is one you’ll want to make again and again.
Chicken Florentine Pasta
Chicken Florentine Pasta is a rich, creamy, and elegant dish inspired by classic Italian flavors. Tender chicken, sautéed spinach, and perfectly cooked pasta are coated in a silky garlic cream sauce that feels both indulgent and comforting.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
-
Step 2: Season chicken slices with salt and black pepper.
-
Step 3: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden and fully cooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.
-
Step 4: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
-
Step 5: Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.
-
Step 6: Add Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir until the sauce thickens slightly.
-
Step 7: Add fresh spinach and cook until just wilted.
-
Step 8: Return the chicken to the skillet and add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until well coated in the sauce.
