Introduction:
Chicken Florentine Pasta is a classic Italian dish that brings together the rich flavors of chicken, spinach, and cream sauce. It’s a family favorite that is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or impressing guests with a hearty and flavorful meal. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making this dish step-by-step, ensuring that your Chicken Florentine Pasta turns out perfect every time.

What is Chicken Florentine?

Florentine-style dishes typically include spinach as the star ingredient. The term “Florentine” originates from Florence, Italy, where spinach is a prominent element in many dishes. In Chicken Florentine, tender chicken breasts are sautéed and paired with a creamy, garlicky spinach sauce, often served over pasta.

Ingredients for Chicken Florentine Pasta

To create this irresistible Chicken Florentine Pasta, you will need the following fresh ingredients:

Chicken Breasts (boneless and skinless): 2 large, thinly sliced
Pasta (fettuccine or penne): 12 oz
Spinach (fresh baby spinach): 4 cups
Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
Heavy Cream: 1 cup
Parmesan Cheese (grated): ¾ cup
Butter: 2 tablespoons
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
White Wine (optional): ¼ cup
Chicken Broth: ½ cup
Shallots (minced): 1 small
Red Pepper Flakes (optional): ½ teaspoon
Salt and Pepper: To taste

For The Sause:

1/5 Tbsp unsalted butter

2/5 tablespoons of all-purpose flour.

1 or 2 squeezed garlic cloves

1 cup of chicken stock

1 cup of whole milk

0/5 a teaspoon salt, or to taste

To taste, add 1/8 teaspoon of black pepper.

4 cups loosely packed fresh baby spinach

fresh parmesan cheese to garnish

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken Florentine Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

First, sprinkle some salt and pepper on your chicken breasts. Add some olive oil to a big skillet that is heated to medium. Sauté the chicken until golden brown on both sides, approximately 5-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness. After the chicken is cooked through, take it out of the skillet and place it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil a big kettle of salted water while the chicken is cooking. Add your choice of pasta (fettuccine or penne are great options) and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet used to cook the chicken, add butter and allow it to melt. Add the minced shallots and garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened. For an extra layer of flavor, deglaze the pan with white wine (if using) and allow it to reduce by half.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Once the aromatics are cooked, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. When the mixture reaches a slow simmer, stir thoroughly to incorporate. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat if you desire. Cook the sauce for about 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Add Spinach and Parmesan Cheese

Next, stir in the fresh spinach, allowing it to wilt into the sauce. Once the spinach has reduced in volume, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and continue cooking until the sauce is thick and creamy.

Step 6: Combine the Pasta and Chicken

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the creamy spinach sauce. Toss the drained pasta into the skillet, ensuring each piece is coated with the rich sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can loosen it by adding some reserved pasta water a little at a time.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once everything is combined, remove the skillet from heat and let the flavors meld together for a couple of minutes. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked black pepper for added flavor. Serve hot and enjoy this luxurious Chicken Florentine Pasta with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad.

Tips for Making the Best Chicken Florentine Pasta

Use Fresh Spinach

Fresh spinach is key to getting the right texture and flavor in this dish. Frozen spinach can be used in a pinch, but make sure to thaw and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the sauce.

Don’t Overcook the Chicken

Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. For the best results, use a meat thermometer and cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Balance the Creaminess

If the sauce becomes too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of pasta water or additional chicken broth to achieve your desired consistency. The starch from the pasta water helps the sauce cling better to the pasta.

Wine Adds Depth

While optional, a splash of white wine can elevate the sauce by adding a subtle depth of flavor. The alcohol cooks off, leaving behind a rich taste that pairs wonderfully with the cream and garlic.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Florentine Pasta is a filling and satisfying dish, but if you’re hosting a larger meal, here are some complementary sides that pair beautifully with this meal:

Garlic Bread: Ideal for absorbing the rich, velvety sauce.
Caesar Salad: A crisp, fresh salad to balance the richness of the pasta.
Roasted Vegetables: Try roasting asparagus or cherry tomatoes for a colorful, nutritious side.

Nutritional Information

While Chicken Florentine Pasta is a comfort food at heart, it’s also packed with nutrients. Spinach is a great source of vitamins A, C, and K, while the chicken provides ample protein. If you’re looking to lighten up the dish, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream or opting for whole-wheat pasta.

Frequently Asked Questions