If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting, and delicious dish, Chicken Florentine Soup is an excellent choice. Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but it’s also packed with nutritious ingredients like spinach, chicken, and cream. This creamy chicken soup is perfect for those cold winter nights or anytime you need a quick and satisfying meal.
Why Chicken Florentine Soup is So Popular
There are many reasons why Chicken Florentine Soup has become a popular choice among home cooks:
- It’s a one-pot meal that’s easy to prepare.
- Packed with protein and vegetables, it’s perfect for those looking for a nutritious yet flavorful dish.
- Moreover, it’s suitable for various dietary preferences such as keto, paleo, and Whole30 diets.
- Most importantly, you can make it in under 30 minutes, which makes it ideal for busy weeknights.
For those new to cooking chicken, you can ensure your preparation is flawless by referring to this easy guide for beginners. This step will help you achieve perfectly tender chicken for your soup.
Ingredients for Chicken Florentine Soup
To make this delicious Chicken Florentine Soup, you’ll need the following basic ingredients:
- 2 cups of shredded chicken (use rotisserie or pre-cooked)
- 4 cups chicken broth or bone broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free version)
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: artichokes for extra flavor and texture
Ingredient Variations
What makes Chicken Florentine Soup even better is its versatility. Not only can you customize the recipe based on your dietary needs, but you can also use whatever ingredients you have on hand:
- Dairy-free version: Swap heavy cream for coconut cream and use olive oil instead of butter to make it paleo or Whole30 compliant.
- Keto-friendly option: Stick with heavy cream, chicken, and spinach to keep the soup low-carb.
- Vegetable add-ins: Feel free to toss in additional veggies like kale, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra heartiness.
Additionally, you can enhance the flavor with some homemade poultry seasoning. For a detailed guide on how to make it yourself, check out this guide.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken Florentine Soup
Preparing Chicken Florentine Soup is a simple process. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time:
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic and Onions
- First, melt a tablespoon of butter (or olive oil for dairy-free) in a large pot over medium heat.
- Then, add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Next, toss in the chopped onions and cook for 7-10 minutes, stirring frequently until they become soft and golden brown. You can caramelize them further for a deeper flavor if desired.
Step 2: Add the Broth and Cream
- After the onions are ready, pour in 4 cups of chicken broth or bone broth. Using bone broth adds extra health benefits, such as improved digestion and immune support. You can explore these benefits further here.
- Then, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream (or coconut cream if making it dairy-free) to create a rich, velvety texture.
Step 3: Add Chicken and Spinach
- Now, add 2 cups of shredded chicken into the broth mixture. Pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken works perfectly for this recipe, saving time.
- Gradually add 3 cups of spinach. It will wilt quickly as the soup heats up, adding a beautiful green color and extra nutrition.
Step 4: Season and Simmer
- At this point, season the soup with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes until the spinach is fully wilted and the soup is hot.
Optional Step: Add Artichokes
- If you want to take the soup to the next level, consider adding artichokes. These add a tangy depth of flavor that complements the creamy base. Simply stir in 1 cup of chopped artichokes while simmering.
Tips for the Best Chicken Florentine Soup
For the best results, keep these tips in mind as you prepare your soup:
- Avoid curdling the cream: Ensure the soup is on low heat when adding cream to avoid curdling.
- Make in bulk: This soup freezes well, so consider making a large batch to freeze for future quick meals.
- Customize your broth: Using bone broth not only enhances the flavor but also adds nutritional benefits.
If you’re looking for a complementary dish, you might want to pair this soup with a flavorful side of lemon herb chicken. You can find the recipe for lemon herb chicken here.
Nutritional Information
One serving of Chicken Florentine Soup (1 cup) contains the following nutrients:
- Calories: 215
- Fat: 14g
- Protein: 16g
- Carbs: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
To make the soup healthier, you can reduce the fat content by using light cream or increase the protein by adding more chicken.
Health Benefits of Chicken Florentine Soup
In addition to its delicious taste, Chicken Florentine Soup offers several key health benefits:
Spinach: A Nutrient Powerhouse
Spinach is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron. It supports immune function and strengthens bones. Learn more about spinach’s health benefits here.
Chicken: A Lean Protein Source
Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, providing essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair and growth. It’s also relatively low in fat, making it an ideal option for a balanced diet.
Garlic and Onions: Antioxidants
Both garlic and onions contain antioxidants that help fight inflammation and support cardiovascular health.
FAQs About Chicken Florentine Soup
Here are answers to some common questions about Chicken Florentine Soup:
Is Chicken Florentine Soup Keto-Friendly?
Yes! Chicken Florentine Soup is low in carbs, making it a great option for those following a keto diet. Just make sure you use heavy cream to maintain the appropriate fat content.
Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use olive oil instead of butter. This will make the soup both dairy-free and suitable for paleo or Whole30 diets.
Can You Freeze Chicken Florentine Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes exceptionally well. Allow it to cool completely before storing it in airtight containers. It will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer.
What Can I Serve with Chicken Florentine Soup?
Chicken Florentine Soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or a side of roasted vegetables. For an extra protein boost, serve it alongside this lemon herb chicken.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Chicken Florentine Soup is an incredibly versatile and easy-to-make dish that fits into a variety of diets and preferences. Whether you’re seeking a quick meal for busy weeknights or a comforting dish for cold evenings, this soup is sure to satisfy. Furthermore, you can easily add your favorite vegetables or experiment with different ingredients to make it your own.
Remember, you can prepare a large batch and freeze it for later – a perfect solution for those hectic days!
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