Chicken Florentine Pasta Recipe is a culinary masterpiece that combines the creamy goodness of a rich sauce with tender chicken and vibrant greens. Picture this: al dente pasta twirls around succulent chicken, all embraced by a luscious, garlicky cream sauce, inviting you to dig in. The aroma wafting through your kitchen is like a warm hug from Italy, making it impossible to resist.
This dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also brings back fond memories of family dinners where laughter and love filled the air. Whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or an impressive dish for guests, Chicken Florentine Pasta is here to elevate any occasion and leave everyone begging for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Chicken Florentine Pasta Recipe is simple yet impressive, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends
- The flavor profile offers a delightful balance of savory and creamy, making it irresistible
- Visually stunning with its vibrant greens against the creamy sauce, it’s sure to please the eye as much as the palate
- Plus, you can easily customize it with different proteins or veggies based on your preference
Ingredients for Chicken Florentine Pasta Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts for a hearty meal that serves 4-6 people.
Pasta: Opt for fettuccine or penne; they hold the sauce beautifully and create that perfect bite.
Fresh Spinach: A couple of big handfuls add color and nutrients; baby spinach works best for tenderness.
Heavy Cream: For that rich, decadent sauce that makes you feel like you’ve just been served by an Italian chef.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves give the dish a fragrant kick; don’t skimp on this aromatic delight!
For the Sauce:
Parmesan Cheese: Grated fresh parmesan melts beautifully into the sauce, adding depth and flavor.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for cooking; it enhances flavors while keeping everything moist.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning to bring out all those lovely flavors in your dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Chicken Florentine Pasta Recipe
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop up the garlic finely, and have your chicken breasts ready to season. It’s always easier when everything is at arm’s reach!
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain it but save about a cup of pasta water—this will help thicken your sauce later!
Step 3: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, toss in the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook each side for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside to rest.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In that same skillet (don’t wash it yet!), add more olive oil if needed and sauté minced garlic until fragrant—about a minute should do! Then pour in heavy cream and stir in grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta directly into the sauce along with fresh spinach. Toss everything together so the pasta is well-coated with that creamy goodness! If it looks too thick, don’t hesitate to add reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 6: Serve Your Dish
Slice up your rested chicken breast and place it atop your creamy pasta masterpiece. Garnish with extra parmesan cheese if you’re feeling fancy!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every mouthwatering bite of this Chicken Florentine Pasta Recipe!
You Must Know
- This delightful Chicken Florentine Pasta Recipe combines tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and creamy sauce for a meal that’s both comforting and impressive
- It’s quick to make, perfect for busy weeknights or fancy dinners that wow your guests
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken until golden brown. While the chicken finishes cooking, boil the pasta in salted water. Prepare your creamy sauce in a separate pan to ensure everything comes together seamlessly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the spinach for kale or add sun-dried tomatoes for an extra flavor kick. You can also experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or goat cheese to customize your dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove with a splash of milk or broth to revive its creamy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh spinach, as it wilts perfectly into the sauce and adds vibrant color
- Avoid overcooking your pasta; it should be al dente for the best texture
- Always taste as you go; adjusting seasoning can elevate your dish significantly!
Sometimes I whip up this Chicken Florentine Pasta for friends, and their eyes light up with every bite – it’s like I’m a culinary magician pulling off delicious tricks in the kitchen!
FAQs:
What ingredients are needed for Chicken Florentine Pasta Recipe?
The Chicken Florentine Pasta Recipe requires simple yet flavorful ingredients. You will need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, fresh spinach, garlic, heavy cream, and your choice of pasta, such as fettuccine or penne. Additionally, include Parmesan cheese for that rich flavor and seasoning like salt and pepper to enhance the taste. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also add a delightful touch. This combination creates a creamy and delicious dish that is perfect for any weeknight dinner.
How long does it take to prepare Chicken Florentine Pasta?
Preparing Chicken Florentine Pasta takes approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. Begin by boiling the pasta while you cook the chicken. Sautéing the chicken typically takes about 6-8 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Afterward, you can quickly make the creamy sauce in about 10 minutes. Overall, this quick cooking time makes this recipe an ideal option for busy nights when you want something satisfying and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Can I substitute ingredients in the Chicken Florentine Pasta Recipe?
Yes, you can easily substitute some ingredients in the Chicken Florentine Pasta Recipe based on your preferences or dietary needs. For instance, if you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream. If you’re vegetarian, you can replace chicken with mushrooms or tofu while keeping the spinach for flavor and nutrition. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or pasta shapes as well; this recipe is versatile enough to accommodate various tastes.
Is Chicken Florentine Pasta suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! The Chicken Florentine Pasta Recipe is excellent for meal prep. This dish stores well in airtight containers for up to four days in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply warm it in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to keep it creamy. Preparing larger batches allows you to enjoy a delicious homemade meal throughout the week without much effort. Just remember that fresh spinach may lose its texture after freezing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Conclusion for Chicken Florentine Pasta Recipe:
In summary, the Chicken Florentine Pasta Recipe is a quick and delightful dish that combines tender chicken with creamy sauce and fresh spinach. With simple ingredients and easy preparation steps, it’s perfect for any night of the week. This recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers versatility through ingredient substitutions and meal prep options. Enjoy this comforting meal that brings together flavor and convenience in every bite!
Chicken Florentine Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4-6 1x
Description
Chicken Florentine Pasta is a delightful dish that marries tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and a creamy garlic sauce, creating a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by chopping the garlic and seasoning the chicken.
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat; sauté chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and let rest.
- In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed and sauté garlic until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
- Add cooked pasta and spinach to the sauce; toss to coat evenly, adding reserved pasta water for desired consistency.
- Slice chicken and place on top of the pasta; garnish with additional Parmesan if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
