Joanna Gaines Chicken Florentine Recipe

Creamy sauce, tender chicken, and just the right amount of spinach—Magnolia’s dish is taste bud heaven!

A quick sear on the chicken before adding it to the sauce keeps it juicy while giving it a deeper taste.

I always use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder because it brings out so much more depth in the sauce.

Letting the sauce simmer for a few extra minutes thickens it just enough to coat the chicken perfectly.

Every time I make this, it feels like something straight out of a cozy restaurant kitchen!

How to Make Joanna Gaines Chicken Florentine

Ingredients

• 4 pieces Chicken Breast
• 2 tsp Salt
• 1 tsp Pepper
• 1 cup All-Purpose Flour
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 cup Fresh Spinach
• 1 cup Heavy Cream
• 1 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated)
• 1 tbsp Garlic (minced)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Season the chicken with salt and pepper.

Dredge it in flour, shaking off any excess.

Set aside.

Step 2:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Add the chicken and cook until golden brown on both sides.

This should take about 6-8 minutes per side.

Step 3:

Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

In the same pan, add garlic and cook until fragrant.

This should take about 1 minute.

Step 4:

Add the spinach to the skillet and stir until it wilts slightly.

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.

Step 5:

Stir in the Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into a thick sauce.

Return the chicken to the skillet and let it simmer in the sauce for a few minutes.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Use Fresh Spinach

You should always use fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture in this Chicken Florentine.

Frozen spinach can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly first.

Perfect Your Parmesan Sauce

When worried about lumps, you should add the Parmesan gradually, stirring consistently to make it smooth.

Keep the heat low to prevent the sauce from breaking.

Check Your Chicken

To avoid drying out the chicken, you should use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches 165°F.

Resting it for a few minutes before serving can also help retain the juiciness.

What to Serve with Joanna Gaines Chicken Florentine

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

You can’t go wrong with garlic mashed potatoes!

The creamy texture perfectly complements the richness of the Florentine sauce, and the subtle garlic flavor adds just the right amount of zest to your plate.

These potatoes are comforting and ideal for a cozy meal.

Lemon Butter Asparagus

Lemon butter asparagus brings a bright and fresh contrast to the dish.

The citrusy lemon and savory butter create a combination that pairs well with the creamy Florentine flavors.

Plus, it adds a pop of color to your table!

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts are a fantastic way to add a nutty and savory touch.

They’re crispy and delicious, and their rich flavor harmonizes beautifully with the sauce.

A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top can make them even more irresistible.

Caprese Salad

For something a little different, consider a vibrant caprese salad.

The fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil provide a refreshing bite that invigorates the palate.

Zucchini Noodles

If you’re looking for a lighter and unique option, try serving zucchini noodles.

They’re low in carbs and have a fresh taste that pairs nicely without overpowering the main dish.

A sprinkle of olive oil and Parmesan can enhance the flavor beautifully.

Variations and Substitutions

Using Different Greens

You can swap out the spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a slightly different texture and flavor.

Just remember to remove any tough stems before cooking.

Alternating Proteins

If you feel adventurous, try using turkey or even tofu as an alternative to chicken.

It adds a unique twist to the classic dish while keeping it flavorful.

Dairy-Free Alternatives

For a dairy-free version, you could use coconut milk instead of cream.

It imparts a slightly different taste while keeping it rich.

Wine Substitutes

Not a fan of wine? Use chicken broth as an excellent alternative.

It still provides that rich, savory base for your sauce.

How to Store Leftover Joanna Gaines Chicken Florentine

Keeping your leftover Joanna Gaines Chicken Florentine fresh and delicious is easy with these tips.

To maximize flavor and texture, store your chicken in an airtight container as soon as it has cooled down to room temperature.

This will help prevent any residual heat from causing condensation, which can lead to sogginess.

Storing in the Refrigerator

After placing the chicken in a container, put it in the refrigerator where it will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days.

Using a shallow container is beneficial because it allows the chicken to cool quickly and evenly.

Nobody likes soggy food, so make sure to close the lid tightly to keep moisture out.

Freezing Leftovers

You can freeze leftovers if you want to keep them for a longer period, extending their life to two months.

Wrap each piece of chicken in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer bag for best results.

Be sure to label and date the bag so you remember when it was stored.

Easy Thawing

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.

If the freezer is your starting point, this gentle thawing method will preserve the texture better than rapid reheating.

Anticipating the reheating process ensures the flavors and juiciness remain intact.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the Fresh Spinach

One common mistake is not using fresh spinach in this recipe.

Opting for frozen spinach can greatly alter the texture and flavor.

If you can’t find fresh, make sure to properly thaw and drain frozen spinach before adding it.

Overcooking the Chicken

It’s easy to overcook the chicken, leaving it dry and tough.

You should aim for the chicken to be juicy and tender.

Cooking over medium-high heat and monitoring closely can help achieve this.

Not Seasoning Properly

Under-seasoning can result in a bland dish, which no one wants.

Don’t forget to use salt and pepper generously to enhance the flavors.

Taste often to adjust seasoning as needed, ensuring a balanced and flavorful result.