Chicken Florentine Soup

Chicken Florentine Soup is a heartwarming blend of creamy goodness and vibrant veggies, perfect for cozy nights or a quick lunch. Imagine tender rotisserie chicken mingling with delicate gnocchi, surrounded by a luscious cream base and bright, fresh spinach. This comforting dish brings together flavors that are reminiscent of a classic Italian meal but in a speedy soup form. You’ll love how it warms you from the inside out, making you feel at home with each spoonful.

Chicken Florentine Soup

I first stumbled upon Chicken Florentine Soup during a chilly winter evening, searching for a meal that requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. This soup became an instant family favorite because it’s not only hearty but also incredibly satisfying. You can whip it up in under 40 minutes using simple ingredients that you might already have. So if you’re looking for a scrumptious, crowd-pleasing dish, you’ve come to the right place — let’s explore this delightful recipe together!

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple & Quick: Ready in just 40 minutes, perfect for busy evenings!
  • Irresistible Flavor: Indulge in a creamy, savory profile that dances on your taste buds.
  • Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant green spinach and golden carrots make it visually stunning.
  • Flexible Serving: Enjoy it as a warm lunch, cozy dinner, or dish for gatherings.
  • Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adjust with gluten-free gnocchi or dairy-free cream for different diets.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 2 tablespoons salted butter: Adds richness and a foundational flavor to the soup.
  • 1 cup carrots (diced): Provides a natural sweetness and a pop of color. Substitute with parsnips for a unique twist.
  • 1 cup celery (diced): Gives the soup a pleasant crunch and enhances the overall flavor. If you don’t have celery, bell peppers can work.
  • 1 cup onion (diced): Essential for a savory base, contributing aromatic depth. Consider using shallots for a milder taste.
  • 6 cups chicken stock: The flavorful backbone of the soup. Homemade stock is ideal, but low-sodium store-bought also works well.
  • 1/2 teaspoon table salt (plus more as needed): Enhances flavors; be cautious, as some stocks are saltier than others.
  • 3 cups 10% cream: Creates a luscious, creamy texture, making the soup indulgent. Substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.
  • 4 cups baby spinach: Adds freshness and vibrant color. Kale can be used for a heartier alternative.
  • 3 cups rotisserie chicken (pulled or shredded): Convenient and flavorful, it provides protein and texture. Use leftover roasted chicken if available.
  • 2 cups pre-packaged gnocchi (or other cooked pasta shape): Soft dumplings are traditional; any small pasta will do if preferred.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth to balance the creaminess. Adjust to taste.
  • 1 medium lemon (zest only): Brightens up the dish and enhances flavor. Fresh lemon juice also works if you prefer tang.
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese (grated): Introduces a salty depth and wonderful finish. Nutritional yeast can be a nice vegan alternative.

How to Make Chicken Florentine Soup

  1. Sauté the Vegetables: Preheat a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium-low heat. Add the 2 tablespoons of salted butter. Once melted, add the 1 cup diced carrots, 1 cup diced celery, and 1 cup diced onion. Increase the heat to medium, cooking for 5 to 6 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened. Be careful not to let the onion brown — if it starts to, simply reduce the heat.

  2. Add Stock and Salt: Pour in the 6 cups of chicken stock and 1/2 teaspoon of table salt. Cover the pot, increase the heat, and bring the soup to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle boil for about 8 to 9 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.

  3. Incorporate the Cream: Remove the lid, lowering the heat back to medium. When the soup is hot but not boiling, stir in the 3 cups of 10% cream, allowing it to heat until it’s steaming.

  4. Add Greens and Chicken: Toss in the 4 cups of baby spinach, stirring until wilted. Add the 3 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken, 2 cups of gnocchi, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper. Raise the heat slightly and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.

  5. Finish with Cheese and Lemon: Stir in the 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese and the zest of 1 medium lemon. Taste the soup, adjusting with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, topped with extra grated parmesan for that finishing touch!

Storing & Reheating

To store Chicken Florentine Soup, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can stay in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it in portions using freezer-safe containers, and it will stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through, around 10 minutes. Note that the texture may change slightly after freezing, so a splash of cream can help refresh it.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

  • Avoid overcooking the spinach; it should wilt just before serving to maintain its vibrant color and nutrients.
  • If your soup is too thick, a little extra chicken stock can help achieve your desired consistency.
  • Use fresh herbs like basil or thyme for added flavor — sprinkle them on just before serving.
  • If the soup seems bland after seasoning, a little splash of lemon juice can brighten the flavors significantly.
  • Frozen gnocchi works well too; just add them directly to the soup without defrosting.

Chicken Florentine Soup is a fantastic dish that highlights comfort and flavor effortlessly. It’s versatile enough to suit various occasions, from a bustling weekday dinner to a calming weekend lunch. I encourage you to experiment by adding your favorite herbs or vegetables — make it your own!

This recipe not only nourishes your body but also warms your soul. I hope you savor every delectable spoonful. Enjoy cooking and creating memories around this delightful dish!

Chicken Florentine Soup

Recipe FAQs

Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie?

Absolutely! If using fresh chicken, simply cook it separately before shredding or cubing and add to the soup during the simmering phase. You might need to adjust the stock accordingly, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked before serving.

How can I make this soup dairy-free?

You can substitute the 10% cream with a plant-based alternative, like coconut cream or cashew cream, and use nutritional yeast in place of parmesan for that cheesy flavor.

Is it possible to freeze the soup?

Yes, you can freeze Chicken Florentine Soup! Make sure it cools completely before transferring to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating, and be mindful that the texture might change slightly.

What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to customize your soup with vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or even a handful of peas. Just remember to sauté any firmer veggies alongside the carrots, celery, and onion for the best flavor!

More Soups Recipes

👉 If you make my Chicken Florentine Soup recipe, please leave a comment and a star rating — it really helps others discover the recipe.
Follow me on Pinterest for more easy recipes.

clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Chicken-Florentine-Soup-Recipe

Chicken Florentine Soup

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Daniela
  • Prep Time: N/A
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 0 hours
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: Soups
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Description

This Chicken Florentine Soup combines tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and comforting gnocchi in a creamy broth. Perfect for quick dinners or cozy meals!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons salted butter
  • 1 cup carrots (diced)
  • 1 cup celery (diced)
  • 1 cup onion (diced)
  • 6 cups chicken stock
  • 1/2 teaspoon table salt (plus more as needed)
  • 3 cups 10% cream (sometimes called half-and-half or blend)
  • 4 cups baby spinach
  • 3 cups rotisserie chicken (pulled or shredded)
  • 2 cups pre-packaged gnocchi (or other cooked pasta shape)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 medium lemon (zest only)
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese (grated)


Instructions

  1. Preheat a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium-low heat and melt the butter.
  2. Add diced carrots, celery, and onion. Increase heat to medium and cook for 5 to 6 minutes until softened.
  3. Pour in the chicken stock and salt, cover the pot, increase heat, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 8 to 9 minutes to soften the vegetables, stirring occasionally.
  4. Remove the lid and lower the heat. Once the soup is not boiling vigorously, add the cream and stir until heated through.
  5. Add the baby spinach and stir until wilted. Then incorporate the chicken, gnocchi, and black pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  6. Mix in the Parmesan cheese and lemon zest, taste, adjust salt and pepper if necessary, and serve hot with extra grated Parmesan on top.

Notes

For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes during cooking.
Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated, but the gnocchi may soften in consistency.
Feel free to substitute any cooked pasta in place of gnocchi.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

More recipes for you

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star