If you’ve been searching for a comforting yet elegant dish to add to your weeknight dinner lineup, the Chicken Florentine Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. This recipe brings together tender chicken, vibrant baby spinach, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a luscious creamy sauce all tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta. It strikes the perfect balance between hearty and fresh, making it a go-to favorite for anyone who loves Italian-inspired flavors without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each simple ingredient in this Chicken Florentine Pasta Recipe plays a crucial role in creating a harmonious blend of flavors, colors, and textures. From the tender chicken that provides protein and substance, to the fresh baby spinach adding a healthy green boost, every element contributes to making this dish truly special.
- 12 oz penne pasta: Choose penne for its ability to hold the creamy sauce well in its ridges and pockets.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick and even cooking.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Essential for sautéing the chicken and infusing it with rich flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides aromatic depth and a hint of pungency.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings warmth and authentic Italian flair.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Perfectly seasons every component of the dish.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Adds bursts of sweetness and vibrant color.
- 2 cups baby spinach: Lightly wilted, it brightens the dish with freshness and nutrition.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the silky, luxurious sauce that ties everything together.
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese: Adds umami richness and a slightly nutty finish.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Lightens and balances the cream with subtle savory notes.
- 1 tbsp butter: Adds a smooth mouthfeel and helps cook the garlic and tomatoes gently.
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a subtle kick of heat to elevate the flavors.
How to Make Chicken Florentine Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cooking the penne pasta according to the package’s instructions ensures it’s perfectly al dente, which is essential for holding up well in the creamy sauce without becoming mushy. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the other components.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and season the bite-sized chicken pieces with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cooking the chicken for about 6 to 7 minutes will give you a golden-brown exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside—you want to hold onto all those flavorful browned bits in the pan.
Step 3: Make the Sauce Base
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant; this step releases the garlic’s warmth without any bitterness. Then toss in halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they soften and start releasing their juices, adding a subtle sweetness and freshness to the sauce.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and grated parmesan cheese. Stir everything together as the sauce slowly thickens into a silky, velvety base that coats each piece of pasta flawlessly. This moment is where the magic happens—combining the richness of cream and cheese with the savoriness of the broth creates a truly indulgent sauce. If you like a hint of spice, now’s the time to sprinkle in those red pepper flakes for a mild kick.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the baby spinach. Stir the mixture just until the spinach wilts, preserving its vibrant green color and fresh flavor. Finally, toss in the cooked pasta, ensuring every piece is smothered in that luscious sauce. Give everything one last stir to marry the ingredients perfectly.
How to Serve Chicken Florentine Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra grated parmesan cheese makes for a wonderfully melty, cheesy finish that takes this dish to the next level. Freshly cracked black pepper and a few more red pepper flakes can add visual appeal and a flavor boost, while a light drizzle of quality olive oil adds a silky sheen and richness.
Side Dishes
This Chicken Florentine Pasta Recipe pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness. Garlic bread or warm, crusty artisan bread are fantastic for soaking up any leftover sauce, making sure none of the delicious flavors go to waste.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant touch, serve the pasta in shallow bowls to showcase the vibrant colors of spinach and cherry tomatoes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley leaves to add a burst of green freshness. For a fun twist, try layering the pasta at the bottom of a serving dish and topping it with chicken breast slices for a striking presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chicken Florentine Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The sauce may thicken as it sits, but a little splash of cream or broth when reheating will bring back its creamy consistency.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, but it’s best to do so without the pasta to maintain the ideal texture. Freeze the chicken, sauce, and vegetables in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then gently reheat and toss in freshly cooked pasta for optimal flavor.
Reheating
Reheat your Chicken Florentine Pasta gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to avoid curdling the sauce. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen up the sauce and keep everything silky smooth. Stir frequently until warmed through and enjoy just like fresh.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne works wonderfully because of its shape, other pasta like fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle would be fantastic as well. Just keep in mind cooking times may vary slightly.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Definitely. Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use a vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast to keep the flavor profile rich and satisfying.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can add extra juiciness and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are fully cooked through.
How spicy is this recipe with the red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add just a gentle warmth that complements the creamy sauce without overwhelming it. You can always adjust the amount to your personal heat preference or omit it entirely.
What wine pairs well with Chicken Florentine Pasta Recipe?
A crisp, unoaked Chardonnay or a light Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce and the fresh spinach, balancing the richness perfectly.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve got this Chicken Florentine Pasta Recipe in your cooking arsenal, you’re ready to impress family and friends with a dish that’s as flavorful as it is comforting. It’s quick to make, packed with balanced ingredients, and just downright delicious. Don’t be surprised if it becomes one of your most requested meals—once you try it, you’ll understand why!
Print
Chicken Florentine Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A creamy and flavorful Chicken Florentine Pasta combining tender chicken, fresh spinach, and cherry tomatoes in a rich parmesan cream sauce tossed with penne pasta. This comforting skillet dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta
Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Sauce and Vegetables
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook penne pasta according to the package instructions, typically about 10-12 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics and Tomatoes: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they soften.
- Make Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and parmesan cheese into the skillet. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes. Add red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of heat.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the baby spinach. Stir everything together and cook until the spinach wilts, about 2 minutes.
- Add Pasta: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss well until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce and all ingredients are well combined.
- Serve: Garnish with extra parmesan cheese if desired and serve warm immediately for best flavor.
Notes
- Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for the best flavor and smoother sauce.
- To make it spicier, increase the red pepper flakes according to taste.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta to keep it al dente and avoid mushy texture.
- Spinach can be substituted with kale or Swiss chard for a twist.
