chicken florentine soup recipe

The Best chicken florentine soup recipe

I’ve been making Chicken Florentine Soup for years, and it’s a recipe that never fails to impress my family. The dish originates from Italy, where it’s known as ‘Zuppa di Pollo con Spinaci.’

It’s a hearty, comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion. The key to this recipe is the combination of tender chicken, rich spinach, and flavorful garlic.

To make it, you’ll need to sauté the garlic and onions in olive oil until they’re soft and fragrant, then add the chicken and cook until it’s browned on all sides. Next, you’ll add the chicken broth, heavy cream, and frozen spinach to the pot.

Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the soup simmer until the spinach is thawed and the flavors have melded together. This soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients from the spinach and chicken.

My kids love it when I serve it with a side of crusty bread or over rice. I’ve even served it at family gatherings and potlucks, where it’s always a hit.

The best part about this recipe is how easy it is to make ahead of time – simply refrigerate or freeze the soup until you’re ready to serve it. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting or looking for a new recipe to try, Chicken Florentine Soup is sure to please.

Chicken Florentine Soup

4.6 from 1954 votes

A creamy and hearty soup featuring tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich broth. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy dinner and comes together in under an hour.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Soup

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4Add the chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned on all sides, about 5 to 6 minutes.
5Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil over high heat.
6Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
7Stir in the heavy cream, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
8Increase heat to medium and bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low.
9Add the chopped spinach and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until wilted and bright green.
10Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
11Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
12Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.

🔧Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 12g❤️Cholesterol: 110mg🧂Sodium: 900mg🌾Total Carbs: 10g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream. You can also add 1/2 cup of cooked small pasta or rice for extra heartiness.

Watch Video Of How Chicken Florentine Soup Works

One of the best things about Chicken Florentine Soup is how versatile it is – whether you’re serving it as a main course or as an appetizer, this recipe works well for any occasion.

For storage ideas, consider freezing individual portions of the soup in ice cube trays or zip-top bags so you can thaw them easily whenever you need them.

When reheating your leftover soup, consider adding some extra vegetables like diced carrots or sliced bell peppers to give it an extra boost of color and nutrients.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Florentine Soup

What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?

You can use either boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. If you prefer a leaner soup, use breast meat; if you want more flavor and tenderness, use thighs.

Can I substitute other vegetables for the spinach?

While fresh spinach is ideal for this recipe, you can substitute other leafy greens like kale or collard greens if you prefer. Keep in mind that using different greens will change the flavor profile of your soup.

How do I store leftover Chicken Florentine Soup?

Refrigerate leftover soup in an airtight container for up to three days or freeze it for up to two months. When reheating, make sure to bring the soup to a simmer first before serving.

Can I make this recipe without heavy cream?

While heavy cream adds richness and depth to this soup, you can omit it if you’re watching calories or prefer a lighter version. Use half-and-half or a non-dairy milk instead for a similar consistency.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

No – since this recipe includes chicken broth as an ingredient, it’s not suitable for vegetarians who avoid animal products.

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