Chicken Florentine Soup is a rich, creamy, and flavorful soup loaded with tender chicken, fresh spinach, and aromatic herbs. Inspired by classic Italian Florentine cuisine, this soup is both hearty and nutritious, making it a perfect meal for any season.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make the best Chicken Florentine Soup, from ingredients to step-by-step instructions, variations, and expert cooking tips.
The term “Florentine” in cooking refers to dishes prepared in the style of Florence, Italy. Typically, these dishes feature spinach as a key ingredient. Chicken Florentine Soup follows this tradition by incorporating fresh spinach, creating a vibrant green contrast to the creamy broth.
The soup also includes tender chicken, a rich blend of vegetables, and a creamy base that gives it a luxurious texture. Whether served as a main course or a comforting appetizer, Chicken Florentine Soup is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients for Chicken Florentine Soup
To make this comforting and flavorful soup, gather the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a slight kick)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Additions:
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning for added depth of flavor
- 1/2 cup orzo or small pasta to make it heartier
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced, for an earthy flavor
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and black pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from the pot and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the remaining olive oil and butter. Stir in the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onions become translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Make the Roux
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well, cooking for 1-2 minutes. This helps thicken the soup later. Slowly add the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
4. Simmer the Soup
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the broth thickens slightly.
5. Add Cream and Spinach
Pour in the half-and-half (or heavy cream) and stir. Add the cooked chicken back into the pot. Finally, stir in the chopped spinach and Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 5 minutes until the spinach wilts and the flavors meld together.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or garlic toast for the perfect meal.
Nutritional Information
This creamy Chicken Florentine Soup is packed with nutrients. Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: ~350 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient substitutions.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Florentine Soup is best enjoyed with:
- Crusty Bread or Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping and soaking up the creamy broth.
- Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs beautifully with this soup.
- Rice or Pasta: Serve over cooked rice or add small pasta like orzo for a heartier meal.
Low-Carb/Keto-Friendly Version
- Use heavy cream instead of half-and-half.
- Skip the flour and use Xanthan gum as a thickener.
- Serve with cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice.
Dairy-Free Version
- Replace the half-and-half with coconut milk or almond milk.
- Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.
Gluten-Free Version
- Swap all-purpose flour for gluten-free flour or cornstarch.
- Use gluten-free pasta or skip pasta altogether.
Expert Cooking Tips
To save time, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breasts. Fresh spinach provides the best texture, but frozen spinach can work in a pinch—just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the soup. This soup also stores well in the fridge for up to four days. If you want to freeze it, let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. When reheating, stir well to maintain the creamy consistency.
Additional Cooking Techniques
For a deeper flavor, consider roasting the chicken in the oven before adding it to the soup. Roasting brings out a rich, caramelized taste that enhances the overall dish. Similarly, you can sauté the vegetables a bit longer for a more developed flavor.
The History of Florentine Dishes
Florentine-style dishes date back to the Italian Renaissance, with their roots in the cuisine of Florence. The use of spinach became popular in the region due to Catherine de’ Medici, who adored the leafy green and influenced its use in numerous recipes, including the famous Florentine preparations.
Health Benefits of Spinach
Spinach is a powerhouse of nutrition, loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, along with iron and antioxidants. Adding spinach to your Chicken Florentine Soup not only enhances the flavor but also boosts its nutritional value, making it a wholesome meal choice.
The Best Herbs and Spices to Elevate Flavor
To give your soup an even more aromatic and flavorful profile, consider adding fresh basil, oregano, or rosemary. These herbs complement the richness of the soup and enhance its depth of flavor.
Pairing Beverages with Chicken Florentine Soup
A crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Chardonnay pairs wonderfully with the creamy elements of Chicken Florentine Soup. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a freshly brewed iced tea or a warm herbal infusion works beautifully as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Soup in a Slow Cooker?
Yes! Follow these steps for a slow cooker version:
- Add all ingredients except spinach, cream, and Parmesan to a slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Stir in spinach, cream, and Parmesan during the last 20 minutes.
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are more flavorful and tender. Simply cut them into bite-sized pieces and follow the same cooking instructions.
What’s the Best Way to Thicken the Soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the soup during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Conclusion
Chicken Florentine Soup is a timeless, comforting dish that is both easy to make and packed with delicious flavors. Whether you’re looking for a warm meal on a chilly day or a nutritious and satisfying dinner, this creamy soup is a fantastic option.
Try out different variations, pair it with your favorite sides, and enjoy the rich and creamy taste of homemade Chicken Florentine Soup. Happy cooking!
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Chicken Florentine Soup – Creamy, Comforting & Easy to Make
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a slight kick)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Additions:
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning for added depth of flavor
- 1/2 cup orzo or small pasta to make it heartier
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced, for an earthy flavor
Instructions
1. Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and black pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from the pot and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the remaining olive oil and butter. Stir in the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onions become translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Make the Roux
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well, cooking for 1-2 minutes. This helps thicken the soup later. Slowly add the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
4. Simmer the Soup
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the broth thickens slightly.
5. Add Cream and Spinach
Pour in the half-and-half (or heavy cream) and stir. Add the cooked chicken back into the pot. Finally, stir in the chopped spinach and Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 5 minutes until the spinach wilts and the flavors meld together.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or garlic toast for the perfect meal.
