Welcome to a dish that brings comfort and elegance right to your kitchen table: creamy chicken florentine pasta. This delightful recipe combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and your favorite pasta, all coated in a rich, velvety sauce. It is a perfect choice for busy weeknights or a special meal, promising ease and incredible flavor. Get ready to create a memorable meal that everyone will adore with this simple yet sophisticated spin on a classic.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Florentine Pasta Recipe
This chicken florentine pasta recipe is destined to become a staple in your home for so many wonderful reasons:
- Quick & Easy: It comes together in under 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Plus, cleanup is minimal!
- Irresistibly Creamy: The luscious, flavorful sauce perfectly coats every strand of pasta and piece of chicken.
- Comforting & Satisfying: This dish delivers hearty comfort with its rich textures and savory flavors.
- Customizable: Easily adapt it with different vegetables or protein, making it your own unique creation.
- Healthy-ish Balance: Fresh spinach adds a boost of nutrients, helping to balance out the indulgent creamy sauce.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your mouthwatering creamy chicken florentine pasta:
- 1 pound chicken tenders, or chicken breasts cut into 1-inch strips
- 1½ teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoon butter
- 8 oz linguine pasta, or other shape as desired
- 1 small onion, diced (about 1/2 cup diced)
- 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped (about 3 tablespoons)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, more or less to taste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup chicken broth (for deglazing)
- 1½ cups chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons dijon mustard
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice, more or less to taste
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt, more or less to taste
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, more or less to taste
- 6 oz baby spinach, coarsely chopped
- Parmesan cheese, for topping
Notes and Substitutions
- Chicken: Chicken breasts cut into strips or even pre-cooked rotisserie chicken work well for this Florentine chicken pasta.
- Pasta: Feel free to use your favorite pasta shape like fettuccine, penne, or bow ties.
- Spinach: Use fresh baby spinach for the best texture and flavor. If using frozen, thaw and squeeze out excess water.
- Broth: Vegetable broth can be substituted for chicken broth if you prefer, or for a vegetarian option (omit chicken).
- Cream: For a lighter sauce, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or evaporated milk.
- Gluten-Free: Use your preferred gluten-free pasta and ensure the flour is a gluten-free all-purpose blend.
Equipment
You don’t need much specialized equipment for this delicious chicken florentine pasta:
- A large pot for cooking the pasta.
- A large skillet or sauté pan for the chicken and sauce.
- A sturdy cutting board and sharp knives.
- Measuring cups and spoons.
- A whisk for the sauce.
How To Make Chicken Florentine Pasta
Follow these clear, step-by-step instructions to create your perfect creamy chicken florentine pasta:
- Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil.
- Pat chicken tenders dry. In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle half the mixture over the chicken, flip, and season the other side.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and butter. Once sizzling, arrange chicken tenders in a single layer. Cook for 4-5 minutes until browned, then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until cooked through (160°F internal temperature). Transfer chicken to a cutting board and cut into bite-sized pieces. The U.S. Department of Agriculture provides clear guidance on the safe minimum internal temperature for poultry to prevent foodborne illness.
- Add pasta to the boiling water. Cook for about 1 minute less than the package directions to achieve an al dente texture. The pasta will finish cooking in the sauce.
- Return the same skillet to medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil or pat of butter if needed. Sauté diced onion for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Sprinkle in the flour and stir until no dry bits remain, forming a roux. This simple mixture of fat and flour is a classic technique for thickening sauces. Immediately add the ¼ cup of chicken broth, whisking constantly until mostly evaporated.
- Gradually whisk in the remaining 1½ cups of chicken broth, a splash at a time, until smooth. Whisk in the Dijon mustard.
- Continue whisking the sauce over medium heat until it gently bubbles and thickens, about 5 minutes. Then, whisk in the heavy cream. Stir in lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed, especially if using unsalted broth. Reduce heat if pasta isn’t quite ready.
- Drain the pasta using a slotted spoon or colander, reserving about a cup of pasta water. Add the pasta directly to the skillet with the sauce. Top with coarsely chopped spinach. Gently fold to combine, coating the pasta and allowing the spinach to wilt for 1-2 minutes. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce becomes too thick.
- Fold the cooked chicken pieces into the pasta until warmed through. Spoon the creamy chicken florentine pasta into serving bowls, topping generously with shaved Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy your comforting meal!
Pro Tips for Perfect Chicken Florentine Pasta
Achieve outstanding results every time with these valuable tips for your creamy Florentine chicken pasta:
- Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook pasta to just barely al dente as it will finish cooking in the hot sauce. This prevents mushy pasta.
- Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water is your secret weapon for adjusting sauce consistency. It helps the sauce cling beautifully to the pasta.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste your sauce before adding pasta. Adjust salt, pepper, and lemon juice to your preference for the perfect balance.
- Cook Chicken Thoroughly: Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160°F for safety and optimal texture.
- Chop Spinach Coarsely: Coarsely chopping the spinach helps it integrate better into the sauce without becoming stringy.
Common Mistakes
- Overcooking Pasta: This leads to a soft, undesirable texture. Always aim for al dente.
- Not Thickening the Sauce Enough: Whisking the flour and then gradually adding broth is key for a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Adding Too Much Pasta: Sticking to the recommended pasta amount ensures a good sauce-to-pasta ratio.
- Forgetting Lemon Juice or Mustard: These ingredients brighten the sauce, adding depth and cutting through the richness.
Serving, Storage, and Variations
This creamy chicken florentine pasta is a versatile and satisfying dish that adapts well to various tastes and needs.
Serve this chicken and spinach pasta immediately after preparation, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired. A side salad or some crusty bread makes a perfect accompaniment to soak up any extra sauce.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce as it tends to thicken in the fridge. Avoid microwaving on high heat, which can make the chicken tough and the sauce separate.
Chicken Florentine Pasta Variations
- Add Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onion for an earthy depth.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Stir in a few chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of concentrated flavor and color.
- Different Cheese: Experiment with Asiago or Pecorino Romano for a sharper, more complex finish.
- Spice it Up: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
- Vegetable Boost: Incorporate other quick-cooking vegetables like peas or asparagus tips during the last few minutes of cooking.
Nutrition Information
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for one serving of this delightful creamy chicken Florentine pasta. Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 637 kcal |
| Sugar Content | 4 g |
| Sodium Content | 965 mg |
| Fat Content | 30 g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 13 g |
| Carbohydrate Content | 53 g |
| Fiber Content | 4 g |
| Protein Content | 39 g |
| Cholesterol Content | 125 mg |
| Trans Fat Content | 0.2 g |
| Unsaturated Fat Content | 13 g |
Disclaimer: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific brands and preparation methods.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this chicken florentine pasta ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken and sauce separately up to a day in advance. Cook the pasta fresh just before serving to prevent it from becoming mushy. - Can I freeze this dish?
Freezing is not recommended for this creamy pasta dish, as the sauce can separate and the pasta may become soft upon reheating. It’s best enjoyed fresh. - What other vegetables can I add to this recipe?
Peas, diced zucchini, or chopped asparagus would be excellent additions. Add them in the last few minutes of cooking to ensure they remain tender-crisp. - Can I use a different type of protein?
Absolutely! Shrimp, turkey, or even white beans can be swapped for chicken to create different flavor profiles. Adjust cooking times accordingly. - Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe can easily be made gluten-free. Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure the all-purpose flour is a certified gluten-free blend.
Conclusion
Cooking should always be an adventure, and this creamy chicken florentine pasta recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can transform into something truly extraordinary. With its tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and luxurious sauce, it’s a dish that impresses without demanding hours in the kitchen. We hope this guide empowers you to create this flavorful meal with confidence and joy. Give it a try tonight and share the delicious results with your loved ones
Chicken Florentine Pasta
This creamy chicken florentine pasta is a comforting and flavorful one-pan meal, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Adjust red pepper flakes and lemon juice to suit your taste preferences for a customized flavor experience.
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Small bowl
- Large Skillet
- Cutting board
- Slotted spoon or colander
- Serving bowls
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders or chicken breasts cut into 1-inch strips
- 1½ teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 8 oz linguine pasta or other shape as desired
- 1 diced small onion about 1/2 cup diced
- 3 finely chopped garlic cloves about 3 tablespoons
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes more or less to taste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup white wine
- 1½ cups chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons dijon mustard
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice more or less to taste
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt more or less to taste
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper more or less to taste
- 6 oz baby spinach coarsely chopped
- parmesan cheese for topping
Instructions
Main Instructions
- Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil.
- Pat chicken tenders dry and season them evenly with a spice mixture of garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- In a large skillet, cook chicken tenders in olive oil and butter until browned and cooked through. Transfer to a cutting board and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Cook pasta in the boiling water for about one minute less than package directions, aiming for just barely al dente.
- Return the same skillet to medium heat, adding more oil or butter if needed.
- Sauté onion, then add garlic and red pepper flakes. Stir in flour, then whisk in white wine, chicken broth gradually, and dijon mustard to form a smooth sauce.
- Whisk the sauce until thickened, then stir in heavy cream, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste, keeping it warm until the pasta is ready.
- Add drained pasta and spinach to the sauce, folding gently to coat and cook until spinach wilts and sauce thickens, adding reserved pasta water if necessary.
- Fold in the cooked chicken until warmed. Serve immediately in bowls, topped with parmesan cheese.
Notes
This creamy chicken florentine pasta is a comforting and flavorful one-pan meal, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Adjust red pepper flakes and lemon juice to suit your taste preferences for a customized flavor experience.
