Chicken Florentine Pasta

Looking for a rich and creamy pasta dish that’s quick and easy to make? This Chicken Florentine Pasta is the perfect comfort food, combining tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and fresh spinach in a luscious, creamy sauce. With simple ingredients like linguine pasta, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a delicious weekend meal.

The creamy garlic Parmesan sauce brings out the best flavors in this dish, while the addition of spinach gives it a healthy twist. If you’re craving a flavorful chicken pasta dish that’s both filling and satisfying, this Chicken Florentine Pasta will quickly become a family favorite.

Perfect for anyone who loves Italian pasta dishes, this recipe is a great way to enjoy a comforting, restaurant-quality meal right at home. Try it today for a meal that’s sure to impress!

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz linguine pasta, cooked according to package instructions
• Olive oil for sautéing
• 2 small to medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• ½ lb button mushrooms, sliced (white or brown)
• 1 bunch green onions, chopped (about 1 cup), including both green and white parts

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2-3 garlic cloves, pressed
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
• ⅛ tsp black pepper (or to taste)
• 4 cups fresh baby spinach, loosely packed
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Cook the linguine according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a large, deep pan over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and sauté the first side until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Flip the chicken, cover the pan, and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Remove from the pan and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing against the grain.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pan, add 1 tbsp of oil if needed. Add the sliced mushrooms and chopped green onions. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the mushrooms are golden and soft. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. Prepare the Sauce: In the same pan, melt 2 tbsp of butter. Add 3 tbsp of flour and pressed garlic, whisking for about 2 minutes until it forms a roux. Slowly whisk in 1 cup of chicken broth, followed by 1 cup of milk. Bring the mixture to a simmer, whisking until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Add the spinach and stir until it wilts, about 1 minute. Season with ½ tsp of salt and ⅛ tsp of black pepper, or to taste.
5. Combine and Serve: Add the sliced chicken, sautéed mushrooms, and the drained pasta to the sauce. Toss to combine. Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

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Tips

• Perfectly Cooked Chicken: To ensure the chicken stays moist, be careful not to overcook it. You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should be 165°F (74°C).
• Creamy Sauce: For a richer, creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of heavy cream in place of part of the milk.
• Leftovers: This dish makes great leftovers. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Variations and Substitutions

• Pasta Choices: If you don’t have linguine, you can substitute with other pasta types like fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or artichokes.
• Different Greens: You can replace baby spinach with other greens like kale, arugula, or Swiss chard for a different flavor.
• Dairy-Free: To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the butter and cheese with plant-based alternatives, such as coconut oil and nutritional yeast.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and sauté the chicken and vegetables in advance. When you’re ready to serve, reheat everything and toss it with the cooked pasta. For the best results, prepare the pasta fresh before serving.

Can I freeze Chicken Florentine Pasta?
While it’s possible to freeze, creamy sauces like this can sometimes change texture after freezing and reheating. If you plan to freeze it, store the pasta, chicken, and sauce separately and assemble once reheated.

How do I reheat leftovers?
To reheat, gently warm the pasta and sauce in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to revive the creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

• With Garlic Bread: Serve your Chicken Florentine Pasta with a side of warm garlic bread or crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Salad Side: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with the rich and creamy pasta.
• Wine Pairing: A glass of white wine, like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the creamy sauce and chicken flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Florentine Pasta is a deliciously creamy and comforting dish that’s easy to make yet feels indulgent. The combination of tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and fresh spinach in a rich sauce is perfectly balanced with the linguine. It’s a simple yet impressive meal that works for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. With minimal prep and full flavor, this is sure to become a family favorite!