Chicken Florentine is a delicious Italian-inspired dish made by topping chicken breasts with spinach and cheese. The name “Florentine” refers to the use of spinach, which is commonly used in the cuisine of Florence, Italy. While recipes can vary, chicken Florentine is generally made from the following core ingredients:
Chicken
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are commonly used as the base of chicken Florentine. Chicken provides protein and the canvas on which the spinach and cheese can be layered. Chicken breasts should be pounded thin so they cook quickly and evenly.
Spinach
Fresh spinach or frozen spinach are both excellent options for chicken Florentine. Spinach provides vitamin A, vitamin K, folate, magnesium, iron, and antioxidants. When layered over the chicken, the spinach also contributes flavor, color, and texture.
Cheese
Most chicken Florentine recipes call for either Parmesan cheese or a Parmesan-Mozzarella blend. The cheese provides rich, savory flavor and helps the spinach adhere to the chicken. Grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella work best to evenly cover the spinach.
Onions
Onions are a classic aromatics used to build flavor in chicken Florentine. Yellow or white onions are most common. The onions are generally sautéed before being combined with other ingredients.
Garlic
Like onions, garlic is usually sautéed and used to provide an aromatic flavor base. Garlic contains the compounds allicin and alliin which give it its signature aroma and flavor.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is used to cook the aromatics and sauté ingredients for chicken Florentine. Extra virgin olive oil is ideal, as it has a high smoke point so it can be used for cooking. Olive oil provides monounsaturated fat and a rich, fruity flavor.
White Wine
Many chicken Florentine recipes include a splash of white wine, such as pinot grigio or chardonnay. The wine deglazes the pan and adds acidity and flavor complexity to the dish.
Chicken Broth
Chicken broth provides moisture and flavor. It’s used to simmer the spinach before layering it over the chicken breasts.
Parsley
Fresh parsley leaves are often used as a garnish for chicken Florentine, adding a burst of color and freshness. Italian flat-leaf parsley is commonly used.
Salt and Pepper
Salt and ground black pepper season the dish and enhance the flavors of the ingredients.
Optional Ingredients
In addition to the core ingredients, chicken Florentine recipes sometimes include:
- Lemon juice – Provides brightness
- White wine vinegar – Adds acidity
- Dijon mustard – Extra flavor
- Red pepper flakes – A little heat
- Fresh basil – Herbaceous flavor
- Breadcrumbs – Texture contrast
The Step-by-Step Process
While specific recipes vary, a basic chicken Florentine is made by following these steps:
- Pound the chicken breasts thin and season with salt and pepper.
- Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until translucent.
- Add spinach and chicken broth. Simmer until spinach is wilted.
- Layer spinach mixture over the chicken breasts.
- Top with grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella.
- Bake in the oven at 375°F for approximately 15-20 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
- Optional – Add breadcrumbs and broil for 2-3 minutes to crisp the topping.
- Serve chicken Florentine garnished with parsley.
Nutrition
Chicken Florentine is a nutritious meal. Here is the approximate nutrition information per 3 ounce serving of chicken Florentine:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 160 |
| Fat | 5g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Sodium | 180mg |
| Carbohydrates | 2g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 1g |
| Protein | 26g |
As shown, chicken Florentine is high in protein and low in saturated fat, sodium, and carbohydrates. The spinach provides fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Health Benefits
Eating chicken Florentine offers the following potential health benefits:
Provides Lean Protein
Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which helps build muscles, bones, and skin. Protein also keeps you feeling fuller for longer after eating.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
The spinach in chicken Florentine contributes many vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, C, K, folate, magnesium, and iron.
Anti-Inflammatory
The compounds in spinach have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation throughout the body.
Bone Health
The calcium, phosphorus, vitamin K, and vitamin D (from the cheese) support strong, healthy bones.
Heart Health
Replacing red meat with lean chicken and consuming spinach is linked to improved cholesterol levels and lower heart disease risk.
Tips for Making Chicken Florentine
Here are some tips for making perfect chicken Florentine at home:
- Look for thick, boneless chicken breasts and pound them to 1⁄4-1⁄2 inch thickness so they cook evenly.
- Remove stems from spinach and make sure it is dry before layering it over chicken.
- Sauté the onions and garlic just until soft – be careful not to burn them.
- Add white wine after sautéing the onions/garlic to help release any browned bits from the pan.
- Use low sodium chicken broth to keep the sodium content in check.
- Grate Parmesan cheese finely so it melts nicely into the spinach.
- Let the chicken rest 5 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Florentine tastes fantastic served with:
- Rice pilaf or risotto
- Pasta or creamy polenta
- Roasted potatoes or root vegetables
- Green salad or roasted broccoli
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls
Pair it with a crisp white wine, sparkling water with lemon, or an Italian beer like Peroni or Moretti.
Recipe Variations
Get creative with chicken Florentine by trying these easy variations:
Chicken Florentine Pasta
Chop the chicken and toss it with hot cooked pasta, the spinach mixture, and Parmesan cheese for a one-pan meal.
Turkey or Salmon Florentine
Use thin turkey cutlets or salmon fillets instead of chicken.
Vegetable Florentine
Omit the chicken and use sliced mushrooms, zucchini rounds, or eggplant slices as the base.
Florentine Sandwiches
Layer the chicken Florentine mixture on crusty rolls for a tasty sandwich.
Breakfast Florentine
Add sautéed spinach, tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese over eggs for a breakfast version.
Storing and Freezing Leftovers
Chicken Florentine can be stored safely in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Keep it tightly sealed in a container.
To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely then transfer to freezer bags or airtight containers. It will keep for 2-3 months in the freezer.
Thaw frozen chicken Florentine overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove or in the oven until heated through.
Where Did Chicken Florentine Originate?
While the exact origins are unclear, chicken Florentine likely originated in Italian cuisine. The use of spinach, cheese, and herbs are hallmarks of Italian cooking. The name “Florentine” also connects it with the cuisine of the Florence region of Italy.
In Italy, spinach-topped chicken may have simply been known as “pollo con spinaci” or “chicken with spinach.” But the name “chicken Florentine” likely emerged when the dish migrated to other countries as a way to emphasize its Italian roots and key ingredients.
Why is it Called Florentine?
Dishes named “Florentine” typically contain spinach and sometimes other ingredients thought to be favored in Florence, Italy. This includes garlic, onions, cheese, mushrooms, and cream or cheese sauce.
The connection to Florence comes from the Renaissance era, when Italian cuisine started becoming more defined by region. Florence was known for its rich, elaborate cuisine including use of produce like artichokes, beans, and spinach.
So while chicken Florentine may not have originated in Florence per se, the name connects it to the spinach-loving food traditions of the Florence region.
Other “Florentine” Dishes
In addition to chicken Florentine, some other classic “Florentine” dishes include:
- Salmon Florentine – Salmon fillet topped with spinach and cheese sauce
- Steak Florentine – Steak with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, and blue cheese butter
- Eggs Florentine – Poached eggs served on English muffins with spinach, hollandaise sauce, and sometimes ham or bacon
- Vegetable Florentine – Florentine mixture made with veggies like zucchini or eggplant instead of meat
- Pizza Florentine – Pizza with spinach, tomatoes, garlic, olives, mushroom, cheese
The key is that all of these dishes contain spinach as the vegetable component and have connections to Italian cuisine.
Conclusion
Chicken Florentine brings together tender chicken breasts, healthy spinach, melted cheese, and classic Italian flavorings. While the exact origin is unknown, both the name and ingredients connect it back to the cuisines of Florence and the broader region of Tuscany in Italy. This satisfying dish can be prepared as the full recipe or modified into pasta, sandwiches, pizza and more, always highlighting the combination of protein, spinach, and cheese. Chicken Florentine makes an elegant yet easy main course or light entrée for Italian-flavored dining.