This Chicken Florentine Soup is a warm bowl of comfort! It’s creamy and packed with tender chicken, spinach, and tasty herbs. Perfect for cozy nights in!
I’ve got to say, the colors make it look as good as it tastes. The spinach brings a pop of green that makes me feel a bit healthier, even if I’m just in my pajamas! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil or Butter: I recommend using olive oil for a lighter flavor, but butter adds a nice richness. You could also use coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative.
Chicken: Use shredded rotisserie chicken for ease. If you’re vegetarian, chickpeas or tofu can work well as substitutes!
Spinach: Fresh spinach gives a great texture. If unavailable, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, substitute with half-and-half or even whole milk. If you’re dairy-free, coconut milk adds creaminess.
Potatoes: I love using Yukon Gold potatoes for their buttery taste. If you’re short on time, diced carrots or cauliflower can also be used to add substance!
How to Avoid Curdling the Cream?
Adding cream can be tricky, but following a few tips helps you avoid curdling:
- After adding the cream, keep the heat low to prevent boiling.
- Stir gently and continuously for even mixing. This keeps the cream smooth.
- Always add cream at the end of cooking, so it only needs to heat through, not boil.
- If curdling happens, don’t worry! Blend the soup for a smoother texture.
Tips for Perfectly Tender Vegetables
To ensure your vegetables maintain flavor and texture, try these steps:
- Chop all vegetables into similar sizes for even cooking.
- Sauté the onions, carrots, and celery first; this builds a flavor base.
- Incorporate potatoes early, as they take longer to cook. Check them after 15 minutes for doneness; they should be fork-tender.
Enjoy making this delicious Chicken Florentine Soup! It’s perfect for a cozy meal any day of the week.
Chicken Florentine Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
- Crusty bread slices (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy Chicken Florentine Soup will take about 10 minutes to prep and about 30 minutes to cook, making it a total of about 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that’s both delicious and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Vegetables:
First, heat the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes until they start to soften. The aroma will fill your kitchen and get your taste buds excited!
2. Adding Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute until fragrant. This adds a delicious flavor to your soup!
3. Cooking the Potatoes:
Next, add the diced potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, which should take about 15 minutes. You want them just soft enough to fork easily!
4. Incorporating Chicken and Spinach:
Once the potatoes are cooked, add the shredded chicken and chopped spinach. Stir everything together and cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted and vibrant.
5. Creamy Finish:
Here’s where it gets creamy and dreamy! Pour in the heavy cream, stir well, and add the thyme. Let it simmer gently for another 5 minutes. Remember: no boiling at this stage to keep that cream smooth and luscious!
6. Seasoning Your Soup:
Finally, season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Give it a good stir and take a taste—adjust the spices as needed!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot, garnishing generously with grated Parmesan cheese. Don’t forget to grab some crusty bread on the side for dipping. Perfect for warming your heart and soul on a chilly day!
Enjoy your comforting bowl of Chicken Florentine Soup! It’s a fantastic meal that brings family and friends together.
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If using frozen spinach, just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess water in the soup. Add it in the same step as fresh spinach and cook until heated through.
Can I Substitute the Chicken with Something Else?
Yes! If you want a vegetarian version, you can replace the chicken with chickpeas, white beans, or even diced tofu. If you prefer beef, shredded beef can work but may change the flavor profile.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much!
What Can I Serve with This Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even a grilled cheese sandwich for a classic combination. Enjoy dipping your bread in the creamy goodness!
