If you’re craving a comforting dinner that feels both indulgent and fresh, this Chicken Florentine Pasta Recipe is absolutely your new go-to. It beautifully balances tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and juicy cherry tomatoes all enveloped in a luxuriously creamy sauce that hugs every piece of perfectly cooked penne. This dish is not only a feast for your taste buds but also brightens up your plate with its gorgeous colors, making it an irresistible weeknight favorite that friends and family will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chicken Florentine Pasta Recipe relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create layers of flavor and texture. Each element plays a crucial role—from the silky cream and sharp parmesan that build the sauce, to the fresh spinach and tomatoes that add a lively, healthy touch.
- 12 oz penne pasta: Choose penne for its perfect tube shape that catches the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces to ensure quick, even cooking and easy eating.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the chicken to a golden, flavorful crust.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic brings aromatic warmth and depth to the dish.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that seasons the chicken with a classic Mediterranean touch.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for enhancing every bite with balanced seasoning.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: They add a pop of sweetness and vibrant color.
- 2 cups baby spinach: Provides a delicate, tender green that softly wilts into the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The key to that rich, luscious sauce that ties the dish together.
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese: Adds sharpness and a savory, umami kick.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Balances the creaminess and adds depth of flavor.
- 1 tbsp butter: For richness and to gently cook the garlic and tomatoes.
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): A subtle hint of heat to elevate the flavor if you like a little spice.
How to Make Chicken Florentine Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta until it’s al dente according to the package instructions. This ensures the pasta is tender yet firm enough to hold up perfectly in our creamy sauce. Once done, drain it well and set it aside; remember, a well-drained pasta is essential so your sauce won’t get watery.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces generously with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Sear them in the hot skillet for about 6 to 7 minutes until they develop a gorgeous golden-brown crust and are cooked through. This step locks in flavor and keeps the chicken juicy. Once ready, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant, filling your kitchen with that inviting aroma. Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook them just until they soften, which usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. This creates a fresh burst of flavor that cuts through the richness.
Step 4: Make It Creamy
Pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and grated parmesan cheese. Stir everything together to combine and allow the sauce to gently simmer until it thickens just enough to cling to the pasta without overpowering it. If you’re feeling adventurous or love a bit of a kick, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes for a subtle warmth that complements the creaminess wonderfully.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Return the cooked chicken back into the skillet along with the baby spinach. Stir gently until the spinach wilts, turning a vibrant green and blending seamlessly into the sauce. Finally, add the cooked penne pasta and toss everything together so every piece is beautifully coated in that dreamy sauce. It’s ready to serve after a last sprinkle of parmesan cheese for that extra touch of cheesy goodness.
How to Serve Chicken Florentine Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate this dish with a handful of fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of extra parmesan cheese. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a squirt of fresh lemon juice can brighten the flavors and make your Chicken Florentine Pasta Recipe feel even more special and vibrant.
Side Dishes
This creamy pasta pairs delightfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or a side of roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts. Garlic bread with a golden crust is also fantastic for soaking up any leftover sauce!
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming dinner presentation, serve the pasta in shallow bowls and add a sprig of fresh herb on top. For gatherings, consider plating individual servings with a Parmesan crisp or topping with toasted pine nuts for an added crunch and gourmet flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Chicken Florentine Pasta Recipe in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully, making for an even tastier quick meal the next day.
Freezing
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce separately from the pasta. Freeze them in airtight containers for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a skillet over low to medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess and prevent it from drying out. Stir frequently to warm through evenly and keep the spinach from overcooking.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne works beautifully to hold the sauce, feel free to swap it for other shapes like fusilli, rigatoni, or even farfalle to suit your preference or pantry stock.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! 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 cheesy flavor without dairy.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Definitely! Chicken thighs will add a richer, juicier bite to the dish. Just be sure to cut them into uniform pieces and cook through thoroughly to ensure perfect texture.
How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Feel free to toss in mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini when sautéing the tomatoes. They will add color and nutrition without overpowering the creamy flavors.
What wine pairs well with Chicken Florentine Pasta Recipe?
A crisp Chardonnay or a light Pinot Grigio pairs wonderfully with the richness of this pasta, balancing the creaminess while complementing the chicken and spinach.
Final Thoughts
I hope this Chicken Florentine Pasta Recipe inspires you to create a soulful, satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. With its delightful combination of fresh ingredients and creamy decadence, it’s an easy way to impress yourself and loved ones alike. Give it a try, and watch it become a beloved staple in your kitchen rotation!
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
Description
Chicken Florentine Pasta is a delicious and creamy Italian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken breast, baby spinach, and cherry tomatoes tossed in a rich parmesan cream sauce with perfectly cooked penne pasta. This easy-to-make recipe combines fresh ingredients and simple seasonings for a flavorful meal that can be prepared in under 30 minutes, ideal for weeknight dinners.
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
Sauce & Vegetables
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 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 the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook until they soften, about 2-3 minutes.
- Combine cream and cheese: Pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and grated parmesan cheese into the skillet. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens slightly, forming a creamy base. Add the red pepper flakes if you want a bit of extra heat.
- Finish the dish: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the baby spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts and is incorporated into the sauce. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until evenly coated with the sauce.
- Serve: Garnish with extra parmesan cheese if desired, and serve the Chicken Florentine Pasta warm for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for best flavor and smooth melting.
- Red pepper flakes are optional; omit if you prefer no heat or add more for increased spiciness.
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta; al dente texture enhances the dish.
- You can add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes to expand the flavor profile if desired.
