Chicken Florentine Soup Recipe

If you’re craving a bowl of comfort that feels like a warm hug from an Italian Nonna, this Chicken Florentine Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a luscious blend of tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and savory garlic enveloped in a creamy, flavorful broth that hits all the right notes. Whether you’re in the mood for a nourishing lunch or a cozy dinner, this soup brings together simple ingredients that transform into a truly unforgettable meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for this soup is both straightforward and rewarding. Each element plays a crucial role, from the aromatic garlic to the fresh spinach adding beautiful color and nutrients. Together, they create layers of texture and taste that make this soup so irresistibly good.

• Olive oil: Use 1 tablespoon to sauté your aromatics perfectly, providing that rich, fruity base flavor.
• Onion, diced: One onion adds a subtle sweetness and depth when softened.
• Garlic, minced: Two cloves infuse the broth with a fragrant punch that wakes up your taste buds.
• Chicken breast: A pound of lean protein that cooks tender and shreds easily, making each spoonful satisfying.
• Chicken broth: Six cups create the heart of the soup, delivering savory richness that carries all the flavors.
• Heavy cream: One cup transforms the broth into a velvety, silky texture that comforts with every sip.
• Fresh spinach: Three cups bring a fresh green freshness and important vitamins, wilting perfectly as the soup simmers.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors harmoniously.

How to Make Chicken Florentine Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Start by heating your olive oil over medium heat in a large pot. Once shimmering, add the diced onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent—this gentle sautéing is key to building the soup’s flavor foundation. Next, toss in the minced garlic and stir for about a minute, allowing the aroma to fill your kitchen and signal the beginning of something wonderful.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Simmer Broth

Add the chicken breast pieces to the pot alongside the chicken broth. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook gently for about 20 minutes, which is enough time for the chicken to cook through and the flavors to meld beautifully. This slow simmer helps to create a broth that’s rich and packed with the essence of tender chicken and sautéed aromatics.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken and Return

Carefully remove the cooked chicken breast from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, mixing it thoroughly with the broth. This step ensures that every bite has a perfect balance of tender meat and flavorful soup.

Step 4: Add Cream and Spinach

Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently to create the soup’s signature creamy texture. Add the fresh spinach last—watch it wilt down as it softens, releasing its vibrant green color and earthy taste. Cooking the spinach just right preserves its nutrients without overpowering the soup’s richness.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Finally, season your Chicken Florentine Soup Recipe with salt and pepper to taste. Give everything one last stir, then ladle into bowls and prepare for a satisfying meal that feels as fancy as it is comforting.

How to Serve Chicken Florentine Soup Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty finish that elevates the soup beautifully. For an extra pop of color and freshness, a few leaves of basil or a light drizzle of good quality olive oil makes a stunning garnish.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs perfectly with warm, crusty bread or garlic knots to mop up every last drop of that creamy broth. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette also balances the richness beautifully, making for a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a touch of elegance, serve the soup in rustic bread bowls or individual ramekins topped with a swirl of cream and a leaf of spinach for visual appeal. You can also sprinkle toasted pine nuts on top to add a delightful crunch and texture contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This allows the flavors to develop even more, making it just as delicious warmed up the next day.

Freezing

If you want to save your Chicken Florentine Soup Recipe for longer, freeze it in portion-sized containers. Just remember, cream-based soups sometimes separate when frozen, so stirring well during reheating or adding the cream fresh after thawing can help preserve that silky consistency.

Reheating

Gently reheat on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to keep the soup smooth and prevent scorching. Adding a splash of broth or cream during reheating can rejuvenate the texture and flavor beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use spinach substitutes?

Absolutely! Kale or Swiss chard work well if you want a heartier leafy green or don’t have fresh spinach on hand. Just adjust cooking time to soften the greens properly.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, the Chicken Florentine Soup Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth. Always double-check labels if you need to avoid gluten.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream alternative. It will slightly change the flavor but still deliver a creamy texture.

What’s the best chicken cut for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for their lean, tender texture and ease of shredding once cooked. You could also use thighs for a richer taste.

How can I make this soup more filling?

Add cooked pasta, rice, or even beans to the soup to boost the heartiness. This turns it into a meal-in-a-bowl perfect for chilly days.

Final Thoughts

There’s truly nothing like coming home to a pot of the Chicken Florentine Soup Recipe. It’s easy, delicious, and filled with wholesome ingredients that make everyone happy. So grab your pot, whip up this delightful soup, and share the warm, creamy goodness with friends and family. You’ll wonder why you didn’t make it sooner!

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