Chicken Florentine Pasta is a creamy and comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh spinach, and al dente pasta in a rich, garlicky cream sauce. Inspired by the classic Italian Florentine style, which traditionally features spinach and cream, this dish is both hearty and elegant. The combination of succulent chicken and wilted spinach tossed in a luscious Parmesan sauce makes for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With its balanced flavors and creamy texture, Chicken Florentine Pasta is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 oz fettuccine or your preferred pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Garlic and Onion: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion is softened and fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add the Spinach and Chicken: Add the fresh spinach to the sauce and cook until it wilts, about 2 minutes. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine everything.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the sauce.
- Serve: Serve the Chicken Florentine Pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
This Chicken Florentine Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines creamy, savory elements with the freshness of spinach, making it a perfect meal for any night of the week.
