Craving a comforting yet healthy meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further than this creamy and delicious Chicken Florentine Soup! This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and is packed with flavor and nutrients. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a delicious dish that's both satisfying and good for you. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet elegant soup!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 10 ounces frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a vegan option
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works perfectly!)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Parmesan cheese, grated (optional, for garnish)
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 Mushrooms: Add the sliced cremini mushrooms to the pot and cook until they release their moisture and begin to brown, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds depth of flavor in your soup.
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Add Spinach and Broth: Stir in the thawed and squeezed spinach, chicken broth, heavy cream (or coconut cream), thyme, and nutmeg. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
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Simmer and Combine: Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally.
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Add Chicken: Gently stir in the shredded chicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through for a few more minutes.
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Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
Cooking Tips for the Best Chicken Florentine Soup:
- Don't overcook the spinach: Overcooked spinach can become mushy. Ensure you squeeze out excess water after thawing.
- Use high-quality chicken broth: The flavor of your broth significantly impacts the overall taste of the soup.
- Adjust seasonings to your liking: Feel free to add more or less thyme, nutmeg, salt, and pepper according to your preference.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
- Creamy variations: For a richer, creamier soup, use a combination of heavy cream and milk.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This Chicken Florentine Soup is a simple, healthy, and delicious meal that's perfect for any occasion. It's a great example of quick dinner ideas that don't compromise on taste or nutrition. Enjoy!