Let me just say it—Chicken Florentine Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl. If you’re into hearty soups that feel fancy but are actually super simple to make, this one’s for you. Picture this: creamy broth, tender chicken, earthy spinach, and just the right amount of garlic. Trust me, this soup hits differently on a chilly evening or even when you’re just craving something wholesome.

So, grab a cozy blanket, and let’s talk about why Chicken Florentine Soup should be on your dinner rotation. And hey, I’ll even toss in some tips to make it quicker because, let’s face it, life’s too short to spend hours in the kitchen every single night.

What Is Chicken Florentine Soup?

Okay, so here’s the scoop. “Florentine” basically means cooked with spinach in a creamy sauce. The dish hails from Florence, Italy (obviously), but over time, it’s gotten a fun twist with American-style soups. Chicken Florentine Soup combines the best of both worlds: the richness of a creamy broth and the freshness of sautéed spinach. Toss in some chicken, and you’ve got a meal that’s both comforting and filling.

The beauty of this soup is its versatility. You can make it as light or indulgent as you want. Feeling a little extra? Add a sprinkle of parmesan and serve it with crusty garlic bread. Trying to keep things on the lighter side? Use milk instead of cream and skip the bread (but, honestly, bread makes everything better).

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let me run you through the lineup:

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work perfectly. You can even use rotisserie chicken if you’re in a hurry.
Spinach: Fresh is best, but frozen will do in a pinch.
Garlic and Onion: The flavor MVPs.
Carrots and Celery: For that classic soup vibe.
Chicken Broth: Go for low-sodium, so you can control the saltiness.
Heavy Cream: This is where the magic happens. For a lighter version, swap it with half-and-half or even plain Greek yogurt.
Seasonings: A mix of salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of nutmeg (trust me on this).
Pasta (Optional): Small shapes like orzo or ditalini are great if you want to make it heartier.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Chicken Florentine Soup

Making this soup is almost as easy as heating up a can of store-bought stuff—but way more satisfying. Here’s how you do it:

1. Sear the Chicken

Start by heating a little olive oil in a large pot. Season your chicken with salt and pepper, then sear it on both sides until it’s golden brown. Don’t worry about cooking it all the way through; it’ll finish cooking in the soup. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Veggies

In the same pot (because who wants more dishes?), toss in your chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook them until they’re soft and your kitchen smells amazing. Add in the garlic and cook for just a minute—garlic burns quickly, and nobody wants that bitterness.

3. Build the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Those little bits? Flavor gold. Add the Italian seasoning and a touch of nutmeg for a warm, slightly nutty kick.

4. Add the Chicken

Return your seared chicken to the pot and let it simmer until it’s fully cooked. This usually takes about 15–20 minutes, depending on the size of your chicken pieces.

5. Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked, take it out, shred it with two forks, and toss it back into the pot. This is when the soup really starts coming together.

6. Stir in the Cream and Spinach

Lower the heat to a gentle simmer, then slowly stir in the heavy cream. Add the spinach last so it doesn’t overcook. You want it wilted but still bright green.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls, sprinkle some parmesan cheese on top, and serve it with warm bread or crackers. Seriously, you’re going to want to soak up every drop of that creamy goodness.

Tips to Make It Faster

Okay, so if you’re anything like me, weeknight dinners need to be quick and low-maintenance. Here are a few shortcuts:

Use Rotisserie Chicken: Skip the searing and shredding. Just grab a rotisserie chicken from the store, shred it, and add it directly to the broth.
Frozen Mirepoix Mix: Most grocery stores sell pre-chopped onion, carrot, and celery mixes in the freezer section. Total time-saver.
Frozen Spinach: No need to wash or chop fresh spinach—just toss in a handful of frozen spinach.
One-Pot Wonder: If you’re adding pasta, cook it directly in the soup. Just remember to add extra broth since the pasta will soak up some liquid.

Why You’ll Love This Soup

It’s Comfort Food at Its Best
Creamy, flavorful, and packed with goodness, this soup is the kind of meal that makes you feel like everything’s going to be okay—even on the craziest days.
Super Customizable
Not into cream? Use almond milk. Want it spicier? Add red pepper flakes. Prefer kale over spinach? Go for it.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove, and it’s as good as new. Pro tip: If you’re adding pasta, cook it separately and add it to individual bowls to avoid mushiness.
Great for Freezing
Skip the cream if you’re freezing it (dairy can get weird when frozen). Just thaw it, reheat, and stir in the cream before serving.

Pairing Ideas

Looking to round out your meal? Here are some ideas:

Garlic Bread: Soft, buttery, and perfect for dipping.
Simple Salad: A crisp side salad with balsamic vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
White Wine: A glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the creamy broth.

A Fun Twist: Chicken Florentine Soup Casserole

Okay, hear me out. If you love the flavors of this soup but want something a little different, try turning it into a casserole. Just mix the soup base (without the broth) with cooked pasta, top it with shredded mozzarella, and bake until bubbly. It’s like mac and cheese’s sophisticated cousin.

FAQs

What is Florentine soup made of?

Florentine soup is a creamy soup typically made with chicken or vegetable broth, fresh spinach, heavy cream, garlic, onion, and sometimes carrots and celery. Some versions include shredded chicken, pasta, or rice for added heartiness. The hallmark of this soup is its silky texture and the fresh taste of spinach.

What is chicken Florentine made of?

Chicken Florentine usually features sautéed chicken breasts served in a creamy sauce made with spinach, garlic, and a hint of lemon. The dish often includes heavy cream or a white wine reduction to create the luxurious sauce. Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of nutmeg may also be added for depth of flavor.

What goes with chicken Florentine?

Chicken Florentine pairs beautifully with simple side dishes like:

Garlic Bread: For dipping into the creamy sauce.
Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus balance the richness.
Rice or Pasta: A bed of rice or buttered noodles helps soak up the sauce.
Crisp Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette adds brightness to the meal.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes complement the flavors well.

What is the secret ingredient in soup?

The “secret ingredient” in soup often depends on the recipe, but here are some common game-changers:

Nutmeg: Adds warmth and depth, especially in creamy soups.
Parmesan Rind: Tossing it into the broth during cooking infuses a rich, savory flavor.
Acidic Touch: A splash of lemon juice or vinegar can brighten flavors and balance richness.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley added at the end can make a big difference.

What does Florentine style mean?

Florentine style refers to dishes prepared with spinach, often in a creamy sauce. The term originates from Florence, Italy, where spinach is a popular ingredient. Whether it’s chicken, fish, or eggs, the inclusion of spinach in the recipe gives it the “Florentine” label.

What is the most famous soup in Italy?

The most famous soup in Italy is Minestrone. This hearty, vegetable-packed soup often includes beans, pasta, or rice and is flavored with tomatoes, garlic, and Italian herbs. Every region has its own twist on minestrone, making it a versatile and beloved staple of Italian cuisine.

Final Thoughts

Honestly, Chicken Florentine Soup is one of those recipes that feels fancy but is ridiculously simple. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick family dinner or serving it at a dinner party, it always gets rave reviews. And let’s not forget how Instagram-worthy it is (because, yes, food should look as good as it tastes).

So, the next time you’re staring into your fridge wondering what to make, give this soup a shot. It’s cozy, creamy, and everything you didn’t know you needed. Plus, who doesn’t love a meal that pairs perfectly with a Netflix binge?

If you’re a fan of hearty, comforting meals, I’ve got a few recipes you should check out! For a tangy, flavorful dish, try the Chicken Bryan Recipe, which features chicken topped with goat cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and a buttery lemon sauce. Craving a low-maintenance meal? The Forgotten Chicken Recipe is perfect—it’s a set-it-and-forget-it dish that practically cooks itself. For a fun and cheesy side, the Cheesy Fiesta Potatoes bring a zesty twist to your table. And if you’re in the mood for a filling, family-friendly dinner, the Cattle Drive Casserole is packed with savory goodness. These recipes are sure to add some variety to your weekly meal plans!

Happy cooking—and don’t forget the bread!