Ret Soup
Introduction
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of chicken and spinach soup. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious weeknight meal, a soothing dish for cold days, or a light yet filling dinner, this soup is the perfect choice. It’s packed with lean protein, vitamins, and minerals, making it not only delicious but also incredibly healthy.
This recipe is quick and easy, taking less than 40 minutes from start to finish. Plus, it’s versatile—you can swap ingredients to fit your dietary needs, whether you’re low-carb, keto, or gluten-free. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need, including step-by-step instructions, pro cooking tips, storage advice, and serving suggestions.
So, let’s dive in and create a warm, flavorful bowl of homemade goodness!
Why You’ll Love Chicken and Spinach Soup
This chicken and spinach soup stands out for so many reasons. So, here’s why it deserves a spot in your meal rotation:
- Healthy & Nutritious – High in protein, fiber, and vitamins, while being low in carbs.
- Quick & Easy – Takes only 30–40 minutes from start to finish.
- One-Pot Meal – Fewer dishes to clean up!
- Great for Meal Prep – Stores well in the fridge and freezer.
- Customizable – Easily adaptable to different flavors and dietary preferences.
- Immune-Boosting – Loaded with garlic, onions, and leafy greens to support your health.
Ingredients for Chicken and Spinach Soup
For this simple yet flavorful soup, you’ll need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing the aromatics.
- 1 medium onion (chopped) – Adds depth and natural sweetness.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced) – Provides a delicious, rich flavor.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs (cubed) – Lean protein that makes the soup hearty.
- 4 cups chicken broth – The flavorful base of the soup.
- 2 cups fresh spinach (chopped) – Loaded with nutrients and adds a vibrant color.
- 1 medium carrot (sliced thinly) – Adds natural sweetness and texture.
- 1 celery stalk (chopped) – Enhances the soup’s depth of flavor.
- 1 tsp dried thyme – Earthy and aromatic.
- 1 tsp dried oregano – Adds a warm, herbal note.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper – For a touch of spice.
- Salt to taste – Enhances all the flavors.
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1/2 cup cooked quinoa or rice – If you want a heartier version.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream – For a creamier texture.
- Parmesan cheese (grated, for garnish) – Adds a rich, umami taste.
- Red pepper flakes – If you like a little heat.
Furthermore, looking for a classic comfort food? Check out this Homemade Chicken Soup recipe on AllRecipes for a warm, soothing bowl of goodness!
Necessary Tools
Moreover, to make this easy chicken and spinach soup, you’ll need:
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven – A deep pot for even cooking.
- Cutting board and knife – For prepping your ingredients.
- Wooden spoon – To stir the soup without scratching the pot.
- Ladle – For easy serving.
- Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accuracy in seasoning.
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
Want to customize this soup to your taste? So, here are some substitutions and additions:
- Swap Chicken → Use turkey, shrimp, or tofu for a different protein.
- Make It Creamy → Add coconut milk, heavy cream, or Greek yogurt.
- Low-Carb Option → Replace carrots with zucchini and skip the rice.
- Boost the Flavor → Add fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or rosemary.
- Make It Vegan → Use vegetable broth and swap chicken for chickpeas or lentils.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken and Spinach Soup
1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in garlic, carrots, and celery, and sauté for another 2 minutes.
2: Cook the Chicken
- Add the cubed chicken to the pot.
- Then, sprinkle in thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned.
3: Simmer the Soup
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
- Later, lower the heat and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes.
- If adding quinoa or rice, stir it in now.
4: Add the Spinach
- Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for 2–3 minutes until wilted.
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed.
5: Serve and Enjoy!
- Later, ladle the soup into bowls.
- Then, garnish with Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success of Chicken and Spinach Soup
- Use bone broth for extra nutrients and a richer flavor.
- Sauté the onions and garlic thoroughly to bring out their natural sweetness.
- Shred the chicken instead of cubing for a different texture.
- Let the soup rest for a few minutes before serving—it enhances the flavors!
Serving Suggestions
This soup pairs well with:
🥖 Crusty bread – Perfect for dipping.
🥗 Side salad – A fresh, crisp contrast to the warm soup.
🧀 Grilled cheese sandwich – For a cozy, indulgent meal.
🍋 Squeeze of lemon – Adds a fresh, zesty finish.
Storing and Reheating
Storage:
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Moreover, freeze for up to 3 months in portioned containers.
Reheating:
- Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Moreover, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~250
- Protein: 30g
- Carbs: 8g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
FAQs
1. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Add everything except spinach and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, then stir in spinach before serving.
2. Can I use frozen spinach?
Absolutely! Use ½ cup frozen spinach, but thaw and drain excess water before adding.
3. What can I use instead of chicken broth?
You can use vegetable broth or bone broth for extra richness.
4. Is this soup keto-friendly?
Of course, just skip the carrots and rice to make it low-carb.
5. How do I thicken the soup?
Add a slurry of cornstarch and water or let it simmer longer to reduce liquid.
Conclusion
To conclude, this chicken and spinach soup is a healthy, delicious, and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. Whether you’re meal prepping, feeding a family, or just craving something warm and comforting, this soup is sure to hit the spot.
Moreover, craving a rich and cozy soup? Try this Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup for a deliciously cheesy and comforting meal!
So, try this recipe today and let us know how you liked it!
