Chicken Florentine Soup
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of Chicken Florentine Soup on a chilly winter evening. I remember the first time I made this dish; the aroma of simmering chicken and fresh spinach filled my kitchen, wrapping me in a cozy embrace. It was a day when the snow fell softly outside, and I craved something hearty yet healthy. As the soup bubbled away, I felt a sense of anticipation, knowing that each spoonful would be a warm hug on a plate. This recipe has since become a staple in my home, especially when the temperature drops and we all seek comfort. You can customize it with your favorite veggies or spices, but the foundational flavors of chicken, spinach, and creamy texture always remain. So grab your pot, and let’s recreate this delightful moment together!
Recipe Snapshot
6 hr 5 mins
5 mins
360 mins
Hard
350 kcal
30 g
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
15 g
Wooden Spoon, Cutting Board, Peeler, Chef’s Knife
Why This Chicken Florentine Soup Is So Good
Hearty and Wholesome
The Chicken Florentine Soup is not just filling; it’s nourishing, packed with vital nutrients. The combination of chicken, spinach, and white beans creates a balanced meal in a bowl. You’ll find yourself feeling satisfied without the heaviness often associated with winter meals.
Aromatic Delight
As you simmer this soup, the aromatic blend of Italian seasoning and paprika dances through the air, teasing your taste buds. Each ingredient contributes to a depth of flavor that is both comforting and inviting, making it a perfect dish for family gatherings or a cozy night in.
Versatile Creation
This soup is incredibly versatile; you can swap out vegetables or even add different proteins based on what you have on hand. If you’ve got leftover chicken from last night’s dinner, this is the perfect way to use it up. Plus, it’s just as delicious if you decide to make it vegetarian by omitting the chicken and adding more vegetables.
Easy Preparation
Even on a busy day, preparing Chicken Florentine Soup is a breeze. With minimal chopping and just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours, all while being on the table in no time!
Family Favorite
This soup quickly became a family favorite. My children love when I serve it alongside crusty bread; they enjoy dipping slices into the creamy broth. It’s a great way to get them to eat their greens without complaints!
Perfect for Meal Prep
If you’re trying to eat healthier or just want something easy to reheat during the week, this soup checks all the boxes. It stores well in the fridge and even tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Ingredients to Make Chicken Florentine Soup
The ingredients in Chicken Florentine Soup come together in a beautiful harmony of flavors. Each one plays a vital role in creating a rich, comforting bowl of goodness. The star of the show is undoubtedly the chicken, but with a medley of vegetables and spices, this soup transforms into something truly special.
- 29 oz chicken broth: A flavorful base that sets the stage for the soup, ensuring every bite is savory and delicious.
- 3 cups shredded chicken: Tender and juicy, adding protein and heartiness to the dish.
- 3 tsp Italian Seasoning: The blend of herbs elevates the flavor profile, making every spoonful aromatic.
- 2 tsp paprika: Adds a hint of warmth and color, perfectly complementing the other spices.
- 1 tsp salt: Essential for enhancing all the natural flavors.
- 4 carrots peeled and diced: They bring sweetness and texture, balancing the savory components.
- 29 oz diced tomatoes with juice from can: Adds acidity and richness, contributing to the soup’s depth.
- 2 cups water: Used to adjust the soup’s consistency, ensuring it’s just right.
- 15 oz white beans drained: Creamy and filling, they make the soup more substantial.
- 6 red potatoes diced: Their earthiness adds a comforting element that rounds out the dish.
- 3 cups fresh spinach chopped: A nutritious addition that wilts beautifully into the soup.
- 8 oz cream cheese: Gives the soup a creamy texture that makes it irresistible.
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese shredded: Melting into the soup, it adds richness and gooey goodness.
Step by Step Guide for Chicken Florentine Soup
Cooking Chicken Florentine Soup is truly a delightful experience. With each step, you’ll see how easily it comes together, filling your kitchen with incredible aromas. Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe!
- Begin by placing the shredded chicken, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, diced tomatoes, carrots, potatoes, white beans, and water into your crock pot. Make sure everything is well combined to start building those flavors.
- Set your crock pot to cook on LOW for four and a half to five hours, or if you are in a hurry, on HIGH for two to three hours. As it cooks, the chicken will become tender, and all the vegetables will soften beautifully.
- Once the initial cooking time is up, stir in the cream cheese until it’s fully melted and combined. This is where the soup gets its creamy richness, making it even more comforting.
- Continue to cook the soup for another half hour, allowing the flavors to meld and the cream cheese to integrate perfectly.
- After the additional cooking time, add the fresh spinach and stir it in gently. You’ll see it wilt down quickly, adding a lovely green color to your soup.
- Cook for an additional 20 to 30 minutes. The soup should be bubbling gently, and the spinach will be completely wilted, adding a fresh touch.
- Right before serving, fold in the mozzarella cheese. Stir until it’s melted and evenly distributed, creating a deliciously cheesy texture throughout.
- Once everything is combined, ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy! You can serve it with some crusty bread for dipping, which complements the soup beautifully.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for a few days, but I doubt there will be any left over!
Things Worth Knowing
- Cooking on LOW allows for a deeper flavor infusion, while cooking on HIGH is perfect for a quicker meal.
- Using fresh spinach is key; it wilts perfectly and adds a vibrant color.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving; sometimes a pinch more salt can make a big difference.
- Letting the soup sit for a few minutes before serving will enhance the flavors even further.
Recipe Notes about Chicken Florentine Soup
To ensure your Chicken Florentine Soup shines, consider these helpful notes:
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about three to four days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
- Freezing: This soup freezes beautifully! Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can last for up to three months in the freezer.
- Pairing: Serve with crusty bread or a fresh salad to round out the meal. It’s also great with a side of roasted vegetables!
- Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or kale to the mix for added nutrition and flavor.
- Leftover Chicken: This is an excellent recipe for using up any leftover cooked chicken you might have.
What to Serve With Chicken Florentine Soup
Serving your Chicken Florentine Soup can be as varied as your imagination allows. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:
- Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of ciabatta or sourdough is perfect for dipping into your soup.
- Salad: A light garden salad with a vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
- Cheese Platter: Include a selection of cheeses to complement the flavors of the soup for a cozy gathering.
- Seasonal Vegetables: Roasted root vegetables or steamed green beans make for a great side dish.
- Occasions: This soup is perfect for family gatherings, cozy dinners, or even a comforting lunch on a cold day.
- Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container, and they’ll keep well in the fridge for several days.
FAQ
Conclusion
The heartwarming Chicken Florentine Soup is a delightful dish that brings comfort and nourishment to the table. Its creamy, flavorful broth combined with tender vegetables makes it an irresistible choice for any occasion. I encourage you to try making it and experience the cozy warmth it brings on those chilly days. You won’t regret it, and it just might become a new favorite in your home!
Chicken Florentine Soup
Equipment
- Wooden Spoon
- Cutting Board
- Peeler
- Chef's Knife
Ingredients
- 29 oz chicken broth
- 3 cups shredded chicken
- 3 tsp Italian Seasoning
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 4 whole carrots peeled and diced
- 29 oz diced tomatoes with juice from can
- 2 cups water
- 15 oz white beans drained
- 6 whole red potatoes diced
- 3 cups fresh spinach chopped
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese shredded
Instructions
- Place shredded chicken, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, diced tomatoes, carrots, potatoes, white beans, and water in your crock pot. Cook on LOW for 4½ – 5 hours (or on HIGH for 2 – 3 hours).
- Stir in cream cheese until well combined. Cook soup for another half hour and add your spinach.
- Cook for 20-30 more minutes and right before serving add your mozzarella cheese. Stir in cheese until it is well combined. Enjoy!
Notes
- Tip 1: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about three to four days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
- Tip 2: This soup freezes beautifully! Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can last for up to three months in the freezer.
- Tip 3: Serve with crusty bread or a fresh salad to round out the meal. It’s also great with a side of roasted vegetables!
- Tip 4: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or kale to the mix for added nutrition and flavor.
- Tip 5: This is an excellent recipe for using up any leftover cooked chicken you might have.
