Are you craving a comforting yet healthy meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Creamy Chicken Florentine Soup is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. Packed with tender chicken, spinach, and a creamy, dreamy broth, this easy recipe is a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It's one of those best recipes that's both quick dinner ideas and healthy meals all in one.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a vegan option
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, omit for vegan)
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Cook Chicken: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the pot and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
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Simmer the Soup: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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Add Spinach and Cream: Stir in the thawed and squeezed spinach. Then, gently stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream) and Parmesan cheese (if using). Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste.
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Finish and Serve: Heat through for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring the soup is heated but not boiling. Do not overcook, as this can curdle the cream. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Enjoy this delicious and easy food recipe!
Cooking Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken Florentine Soup:
- Don't overcook the spinach: Overcooked spinach will become mushy. Make sure to squeeze out excess water from the thawed spinach before adding it to the soup.
- Adjust the creaminess: For a lighter soup, reduce the amount of heavy cream. You can also substitute half-and-half or milk for a thinner consistency.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or celery to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of this healthy meal.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Variations:
- Lemon Chicken Florentine Soup: Add the zest and juice of half a lemon at the end for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Creamy Tuscan Chicken Florentine Soup: Add a tablespoon of sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained) along with the spinach for a richer, more complex flavor.
- Chicken Florentine Soup with Pasta: Add 1/2 cup of small pasta (like ditalini or orzo) during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400 (depending on ingredients used)
- Protein: 25-30 grams
- Fat: 20-25 grams
- Carbohydrates: 15-20 grams
This Creamy Chicken Florentine Soup recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor and nutrition. It's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch. It's a delicious dish that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!