Imagine biting into a perfectly golden, savory cheddar biscuit, its flaky layers giving way to reveal a tender, pan-seared chicken breast nestled in a creamy, dreamy sauce of spinach and mushrooms. That’s exactly what you’ll experience with this sensational Creamy Chicken Florentine recipe, crowned with a delightful cheddar biscuit. This dish isn’t just dinner; it’s an experience—a perfect blend of comfort food and elevated gourmet flavors, all easily achievable in your own kitchen. It’s a weeknight-friendly meal that feels like a special occasion, making it a winner in our book! Ready to embark on this culinary adventure?

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Ingredients for Your Creamy Chicken Florentine

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delectable dish. We’ve included a few notes to help you understand each ingredient and how it contributes to the overall flavor profile.

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of our show. Choose organic or free-range for the best flavor. You can also use bone-in chicken breasts but will need to adjust cooking time accordingly.
1 tablespoon olive oil: For searing the chicken and sautéing the vegetables. You can use other oils like avocado or canola, but olive oil adds a lovely flavor.
8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced: These earthy mushrooms bring a delightful depth of flavor to the sauce. If you don’t have cremini mushrooms, you can substitute white button mushrooms or portobellos.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a pungent, aromatic note to the sauce. Feel free to add an extra clove if you love garlic!
5 ounces fresh spinach: Packed with nutrients and adds a vibrant green color. If you’re in a pinch, frozen spinach will work too, just make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture.
1 cup heavy cream: The secret to a luscious, creamy sauce. For a slightly lighter option, you can use half-and-half, but it won’t be as rich.
1/4 cup vegetable broth: Used to thin the sauce slightly and add flavor depth. Chicken broth will also work great if you don’t have vegetable.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Used to thicken the sauce. If gluten-free, cornstarch will work fine. Simply mix equal parts cornstarch with water to create a slurry for thickening.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish. Use more or less to taste.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a little spice. Freshly ground is always best!
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: For that cheesy goodness on top. You can use sharp, mild, or a blend, depending on your preference.
1 pre-made or homemade cheddar biscuit: The perfect accompaniment. If you’re using homemade biscuits, consider adding some extra shredded cheese on top before baking!

Dietary Notes: For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour and ensure your biscuit is gluten-free. For a dairy-free version, you can substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk, although the flavor profile will change. You can substitute the cheddar with a dairy-free cheese.

Step-by-Step Directions to Delicious Chicken Florentine

Let’s get cooking! This recipe is straightforward, and with our step-by-step guide, you’ll be enjoying your Creamy Chicken Florentine in no time.

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Preheat oven: First, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). This ensures the oven is hot and ready when you need it.
Season the chicken: Generously season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This is crucial for flavor development; don’t skimp!
Sear the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the skillet. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until nicely golden brown and cooked through. Don’t overcrowd the pan; sear in batches if needed. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the same skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until softened and their moisture has released. This step adds tons of flavor to the sauce.
Add garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the mushrooms. Cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
Create the thickening base: In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and vegetable broth until smooth. This prevents lumps when added to the hot pan.
Thicken the sauce: Pour the flour mixture into the skillet with the mushrooms and garlic. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly.
Add cream: Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Reduce the heat to low to prevent the cream from curdling.
Wilt the spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the cream sauce. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted. This adds both color and nutrients to your sauce.
Return the chicken: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce.
Add the biscuit: Place the cheddar biscuit on the side of the pan, next to the chicken, ensuring it doesn’t sit directly in the sauce to maintain its crispiness.
Spoon the sauce: Spoon some of the mushroom and spinach sauce over the chicken and biscuit, ensuring both are well coated.
Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 5 minutes to warm the sauce and biscuit, ensuring the sauce doesn’t reduce too much. Keep an eye on it to avoid over-browning.
Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven. Serve immediately while the biscuit is warm and the sauce is creamy. Garnish with an additional sprinkle of cheddar cheese over the biscuit for extra flavor and visual appeal.

Chef’s Note: Always use low to medium heat when adding the heavy cream, and be careful not to let it boil, as this can cause the cream to separate. Patience is key for a smooth and creamy sauce!

Expert Tips and Serving Suggestions

Now that you know how to prepare this Chicken Florentine, let’s delve into some expert tips and serving suggestions to take your dish to the next level.

Advanced Tips for Best Results

Sear like a Pro: Make sure your skillet is hot before you add the chicken. This will create a beautiful golden crust and lock in the juices.
Don’t Overcrowd: When searing the chicken, don’t overcrowd the pan, or you won’t get the perfect sear. It will drop the pan temperature and the chicken will steam instead of sear. Cook it in batches to achieve optimal results.
Fresh is Best: Use fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture. However, if you’re in a rush, frozen spinach works fine, just ensure you thaw it completely and squeeze out all the excess moisture.
Biscuit Brilliance: If using pre-made biscuits, look for quality brands or consider making your own. Freshly baked biscuits always elevate any meal!
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce before adding the chicken. Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. Everyone’s palette is different.

Serving Suggestions for Your Chicken Florentine

This Creamy Chicken Florentine is a complete meal on its own, but here are some ideas for complementary sides:

Roasted Vegetables: Simple roasted asparagus or broccoli make great additions. Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper and roast at 400F for 15-20 minutes or until tender-crisp.
Light Salad: A crisp side salad with a lemon vinaigrette will add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes can be used as a bed for the chicken and sauce.
Garlic Bread: A slice of crusty garlic bread is fantastic for soaking up all that delicious sauce.

Storage and Reheating

Got leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to store and reheat your Creamy Chicken Florentine:

Storage: Let the dish cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce gets too thick. The microwave can also be used, in short intervals, but may affect the texture of the sauce slightly.
Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the sauce and sear the chicken ahead of time. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce, nestle in the chicken, and bake to complete the dish.

Call-to-Action: Ready to try this incredible Creamy Chicken Florentine? We’re sure you’ll love it! Don’t hesitate to give it a go and then let us know your feedback! Share your creation on social media with #CreamyChickenFlorentine!

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Florentine

We’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help you make the most of your Creamy Chicken Florentine experience. If you have any more questions, feel free to drop them in the comments section below!

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can absolutely use frozen spinach. Make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out as much excess water as possible before adding it to the sauce. This will prevent your sauce from becoming watery.

What if I don’t have heavy cream? Can I substitute it?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk. Using half-and-half will result in a slightly less rich sauce. Coconut milk will impart a subtle coconut flavor, so consider this when deciding your substitution.

Can I use different types of mushrooms?

Absolutely! While we love the earthy flavor of cremini mushrooms, feel free to use other varieties such as white button mushrooms, portobello, or a mixed mushroom blend. Each type of mushroom will bring its own unique flavor profile to the dish.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and sear the chicken ahead of time. Store these components separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, combine and complete the baking step. However, add the biscuit at the time of serving for optimal texture.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

This recipe is great for meal prepping. The chicken and sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When it comes time to eat, gently reheat and enjoy! The biscuit, however, is best when served fresh or just reheated, so it’s best to add just before serving.

What if my sauce is too thick?

If your sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of vegetable broth or cream to thin it out. Stir gently until it reaches your desired consistency.

What can I do if my sauce is too thin?

If your sauce is too thin, you can simmer it over low heat, allowing it to reduce and thicken. You can also add a cornstarch slurry to thicken it quicker (a mix of 1 teaspoon cornstarch with 1 teaspoon of water). Add a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this dish gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and ensuring your cheddar biscuit is gluten-free. It’s vital to check all ingredient labels when avoiding gluten.

Can I use bone-in chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken breasts. You’ll need to adjust the cooking time to ensure that the chicken is cooked through. Bone-in chicken can take a little longer to cook than boneless breasts, so just make sure they are fully cooked before moving onto the next step. Check with a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

What is the best way to reheat the biscuits to retain its texture?

To retain the texture of your biscuit, if possible, do not bake it in the same pan as the Chicken Florentine, but rather heat it on its own on a baking sheet for a few minutes, until warmed through. This will help to maintain its crispy top and avoid the sauce making it soggy.

Can I add other herbs and spices?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices. Thyme, rosemary, and a pinch of red pepper flakes can add an extra layer of flavor to your dish. You can also add a pinch of dried oregano or basil.

What kind of cheese should I use besides cheddar?

While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese. Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses would work beautifully. You can also use a mixture of different cheeses to add more complexity of flavor.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve now unlocked the secrets to making a truly unforgettable Creamy Chicken Florentine with a golden cheddar biscuit. This dish is a testament to how simple, quality ingredients, combined with a bit of culinary know-how, can create a meal that’s both comforting and elegant. With its rich, creamy sauce, tender chicken, and flaky biscuit, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike. It’s the perfect meal for a special occasion, or a simple yet elegant weeknight dinner.

Remember, cooking is also about experimentation! Feel free to adjust the seasonings and ingredient substitutions to make this dish your own. We encourage you to share your cooking experiences and any modifications you made in the comments section below or on social media using #CreamyChickenFlorentine. We can’t wait to see what you create!

Now it’s your turn—go ahead, don your chef’s hat, and get cooking! You’ve got this!

For more information on the health benefits of some of the ingredients, visit the Harvard School of Public Health’s guide on Mushrooms. You can also find out more about the benefits of eating spinach on Harvard Health’s blog.