Cajun Chicken Florentine

Cajun Chicken Florentine Recipe - Authentic American Dish

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Cajun Chicken Florentine is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning with the creamy richness of a spinach and Parmesan sauce. This dish is sure to impress your family and friends with its unique blend of spices and textures.

History

Cajun Chicken Florentine is a modern twist on traditional Cajun cuisine, which originated in Louisiana. The dish combines the spicy flavors of Cajun seasoning with the creamy richness of a Florentine sauce, which typically includes spinach and Parmesan cheese. This fusion of flavors creates a unique and delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
6 tbsp cajun seasoning (I use Schilling)
1 (10 oz (283 g)) package chopped spinach (thawed and drained)
2 tbsp butter or margarine
2 tbsp flour
2 cups milk
0.25 cup parmesan cheese
0.5 tsp garlic powder
salt and pepper
1 package mostaccioli noodles
4 tbsp olive oil

How to prepare

Boil the noodles according to the package instructions.
Meanwhile, prepare the sauce.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter.
Add the flour and blend well.
Gradually whisk in the milk, spinach, cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Cook over medium heat until thickened, stirring frequently.
Cover and set aside.
Heat the oil over medium-high heat in a large frying pan.
Generously sprinkle the chicken with Cajun seasoning.
Sear the chicken on both sides, then reduce the heat to medium and cook until thoroughly cooked (about 10 – 15 minutes), turning occasionally.
Serve the noodles on a plate, top with a chicken breast, and spoon the sauce over it.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Variations

Substitute shrimp or fish for the chicken for a seafood twist on this dish.
Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers to the sauce for extra flavor and texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to properly drain the spinach before adding it to the sauce to prevent it from becoming watery.

- Be generous with the Cajun seasoning on the chicken to ensure that it is well seasoned and flavorful.

- Cook the chicken over medium heat to ensure that it cooks evenly and stays juicy.

- Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese for a beautiful presentation.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Cajun Chicken Florentine with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Searing the chicken before cooking it ensures that it stays juicy and flavorful.

- Gradually whisking in the milk when making the sauce helps prevent lumps from forming.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use butter instead of margarine for a richer flavor.

- Use whole wheat noodles for a healthier option.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Cajun Chicken Florentine on a bed of rice or quinoa for a different presentation. - Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika or cayenne pepper for an extra kick of spice.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Cajun Chicken Florentine with a glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Noir for a perfect match.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

- Approximately 450 calories per serving

Carbohydrates

- Noodles: 40g per serving

- Flour: 6g per serving

Fats

- Margarine: 7g per serving

- Olive oil: 10g per serving

- Parmesan cheese: 5g per serving

Proteins

- Chicken breasts: 25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Spinach: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K

- Parmesan cheese: Good source of calcium and phosphorus

Alergens

Contains dairy (milk, Parmesan cheese)

- Contains gluten (flour)

Summary

Cajun Chicken Florentine is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a satisfying and flavorful meal that is sure to please your taste buds.

Summary

Cajun Chicken Florentine is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning with the creamy richness of a spinach and Parmesan sauce. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, and is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a treasured one. It was a warm summer day in the heart of Louisiana, and I found myself browsing through a quaint little bookstore in the French Quarter. As I perused the shelves, a worn and weathered cookbook caught my eye. Its title, "Secrets of Cajun Cooking," beckoned me to open its pages and explore the culinary treasures within.

I settled into a cozy armchair by the window and began flipping through the book, my eyes dancing over the vibrant photographs and tantalizing descriptions of Cajun dishes. And that's when I stumbled upon it - the recipe for Cajun Chicken Florentine. The combination of tender chicken, spicy Cajun seasonings, and creamy spinach sauce captured my imagination, and I knew I had to try it for myself.

I purchased the cookbook and hurried home to my little kitchen, eager to recreate the flavors that had enchanted me. I gathered all the necessary ingredients - chicken breasts, Cajun seasoning, spinach, cream, and Parmesan cheese - and set to work following the instructions carefully.

As the chicken sizzled in the skillet, the aroma of garlic and Cajun spices filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. I added the spinach and cream to the pan, watching as the sauce thickened and bubbled, the vibrant green hues mingling with the creamy white.

When the dish was finally ready, I plated it with care, garnishing it with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. I took a tentative bite, savoring the explosion of flavors on my tongue - the bold spiciness of the Cajun seasoning, the richness of the creamy spinach sauce, and the tender juiciness of the chicken. It was a symphony of tastes and textures that left me wanting more.

I shared the dish with my family that evening, and their faces lit up with delight as they tasted the Cajun Chicken Florentine. They marveled at the complex flavors and textures, each bite a journey through the rich culinary heritage of Louisiana.

From that day on, Cajun Chicken Florentine became a staple in our household. I would cook it for special occasions, dinner parties, or simply as a comforting meal on a rainy day. Each time I made it, I would think back to that fateful summer day in the bookstore, where I had discovered the recipe that would become a beloved family favorite.

Over the years, I have made a few tweaks and adjustments to the original recipe, adding my own personal touch to make it truly my own. But the essence of that first taste - the magic of Cajun spices, creamy sauce, and tender chicken - remains unchanged.

Now, as I pass on this recipe to you, my dear grandchild, I hope that you will find as much joy and satisfaction in cooking it as I have. May the flavors of Louisiana dance on your taste buds, and may the memory of our shared love for good food bring us closer together, no matter the miles that may separate us.

So go forth, my dear, and cook with passion and love. And remember, the secret ingredient in every dish is the heart and soul you put into it. Enjoy the journey, and may the flavors of Cajun Chicken Florentine always remind you of our shared love for food, family, and the joy of discovery. Bon appétit!