This Chicken Florentine Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! It’s creamy, filled with tender chicken, nutritious spinach, and lots of yummy flavors. Perfect for chilly days!
Honestly, I love how quick this soup is to whip up. Grab a spoon, sit back, and enjoy it with some crusty bread. It makes any day feel special! 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is great for sautéing veggies. If you don’t have it, you can use vegetable or canola oil. For extra flavor, try butter!
Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is my go-to for ease and flavor. You can also use leftover cooked chicken or even poach some fresh chicken breasts if that’s what you have.
Broth: Chicken broth adds depth, but vegetable broth works for a lighter version. You can even make your own broth similar to what you’re using!
Potatoes: I love using Yukon Gold for creaminess, but you can swap in sweet potatoes for a different taste or omit them entirely for a lighter soup.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is best, but you can use frozen spinach too! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the soup.
How Can I Make Sure My Vegetables are Perfectly Cooked?
Getting your vegetables cooked just right is vital for a comforting soup. Here’s how to do it!
- Start by sautéing onions, carrots, and celery in olive oil. Cook these for 5-7 minutes until soft; this builds a flavorful base.
- Add garlic last to keep its flavor fresh, cooking it for just a minute.
- When adding potatoes, allow them to simmer about 15-20 minutes, so they become tender but not mushy.
- Finally, add the spinach only for a few minutes to keep it vibrant and fresh!
How to Make Chicken Florentine Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 6 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- Croutons for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken Florentine Soup can be prepared in about 15 minutes and will take an additional 30 minutes to cook. So in total, you’ll be enjoying a delicious meal in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook these together for about 5-7 minutes until they are softened and the onion is translucent. This is where your soup starts to get its flavorful base!
2. Add Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute. You’ll start to smell the wonderful aroma filling your kitchen!
3. Combine Chicken and Broth:
Now, it’s time to add the shredded chicken, chicken broth, and water into the pot. Bring everything to a gentle boil, so that the flavors begin to blend beautifully.
4. Cook the Potatoes:
Add the diced potatoes, dried thyme, and basil to the pot. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let it all cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are nice and tender.
5. Wilt the Spinach:
After the potatoes are cooked, stir in the chopped spinach, cooking just until it wilts—this should only take about 2-3 minutes.
6. Creamy Addition:
Lower the heat and then pour in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese melts and everything is heated through. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to serve your delicious soup! Ladle the Chicken Florentine Soup into bowls and top with croutons and additional grated Parmesan cheese if you like. Enjoy your comforting, creamy bowl of happiness!
This Chicken Florentine Soup is not only easy to make but is also a favorite for its rich flavors and cozy warmth! Perfect for enjoying with family or friends!
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables in This Soup?
Yes, you can! Frozen spinach is a great substitute. Just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the soup. However, I recommend using fresh carrots, celery, and onion for the best flavor.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even a non-dairy milk like coconut milk or almond milk. Keep in mind that non-dairy options may alter the flavor slightly.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to restore its creaminess.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Just omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead. Add more beans or lentils for protein, and feel free to increase the amount of vegetables for a hearty soup.
