Ready in: 30 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Skillet Cooking · Storage: Up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Quick Answer
This Skillet Creamy Chicken Mushroom Florentine is a warm, comforting dish featuring seared chicken breasts, sautéed mushrooms, and fresh spinach in a rich creamy sauce.
Living in New York City, it's easy to get swept up in the hustle and bustle of life, especially as we approach the festive seasons of Thanksgiving and Christmas. Amidst the frenzy, I find solace in cooking, and one dish that always brings warmth and comfort to my heart (and stomach!) is my Skillet Creamy Chicken Mushroom Florentine. The combination of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and vibrant spinach in a rich, creamy sauce feels not just like a meal but a hug from the inside, perfect for those chilly evenings ahead.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Comforting: This dish wraps you in warmth, making it perfect for chilly evenings.
- Quick and Easy: With simple steps, you can have a gourmet meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Rich Flavors: The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh spinach delivers a mouthwatering experience.
- Versatile: Ideal for both casual dinners and special occasions, it's sure to impress your guests.
- Great for Leftovers: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping.
Ingredients
Gather your ingredients for this delicious dish:
Protein
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetables
- 8 ounces cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
Flavor Enhancers
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
How to Make Skillet Creamy Chicken Mushroom Florentine (Step-by-Step)
This recipe is not only straightforward but incredibly satisfying to make.
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by generously seasoning both sides of your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This foundational step will enhance the flavor of every bite.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once it's hot, carefully add your chicken breasts. Sear for about 5-7 minutes on each side until a beautiful golden-brown crust develops. The delightful aroma will fill your kitchen!
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
After achieving that perfect sear, remove the chicken and set aside. In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 4-5 minutes until they are browned and tender. Then, add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow it to simmer gently, thickening slightly while you stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. This creates a rich, luscious sauce.
Step 5: Return Chicken to Skillet
Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and gently nestle the cooked chicken breasts into the sauce. Let everything simmer for about 3-5 minutes until the chicken is heated through and the spinach is wilted.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish your dish with fresh parsley to add color and fresh herbal notes. Serve it over rice or with crusty bread to soak up the creamy goodness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don't overcrowd the skillet: If your skillet is too crowded, the chicken won't sear properly. Cook in batches if necessary for that golden crust.
- Skip fresh ingredients at your own risk: Using dried spinach or pre-cooked chicken can diminish the fresh flavors and textures that make this dish special.
- Don't rush the sauce: Allowing the cream and cheese to meld slowly enhances the dish's richness. Patience is key here!
Tips and Tricks for Success
- To save time, consider prepping your chicken and vegetables ahead of time. Having everything ready will make cooking smoother, especially during the holiday season when things tend to get hectic.
- Experiment with different mushrooms. While I often use cremini or button mushrooms, blending in shiitake or oyster mushrooms can add depth and unique flavors.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, but keep in mind it may alter the final creaminess.
Variations
- Choose different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or oyster.
- Use spinach alternatives like kale or Swiss chard.
- For a different protein, substitute chicken with turkey or tofu.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist.
- Incorporate other herbs like thyme or basil for added flavor.
How to Serve
- Serve over fluffy rice to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Pair with crusty bread for a hearty meal.
- Top with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added color and flavor.
- Plate with a side salad for a balanced meal.
- Offer with a glass of white wine to complement the flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prep chicken and vegetables ahead of time for smoother cooking.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in the skillet with a splash of cream to maintain texture.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
While experimenting with this creamy dish, I discovered that the addition of fresh herbs can truly elevate flavors; a sprinkle of thyme or basil can take it from comforting to exquisite. Also, I learned that this recipe is perfect for both casual dinners and special holiday gatherings, as it feels elegant yet is incredibly simple to prepare.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~540 calories · 36g protein · 8g carbs · 40g fat
Recipe by:
Quick Skillet Creamy Chicken Mushroom Florentine
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season both sides of chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once hot, sear chicken breasts for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove chicken and in the same skillet, add mushrooms. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until browned, then add garlic and Italian seasoning, cooking for another minute.
- Pour in heavy cream, stir, and allow to simmer. Add Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Add spinach and return chicken to skillet, simmer for 3-5 minutes until heated through.
- Garnish with parsley and serve over rice or with crusty bread.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts. They will add more flavor and remain juicy during cooking.
2. Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. Just reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream to maintain the sauce's consistency.
3. What can I serve with Skillet Creamy Chicken Mushroom Florentine?
This dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. A side salad also complements it nicely.
4. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or a cashew cream to make it dairy-free.
5. How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the skillet with a splash of cream.
