Chicken Spinach Soup is one of those comforting dishes that combines wholesome, nutritious ingredients into a bowl of pure warmth. Whether you’re fighting off a cold, looking for something healthy, or simply craving a comforting meal, this soup hits all the right notes. What’s even better is that it’s incredibly easy to make! With tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and a savory broth, this soup is both filling and packed with nutrients. Plus, it’s adaptable to suit a variety of dietary preferences, making it perfect for any occasion.
Now, let’s dive into a straightforward and easy recipe that will have you enjoying a steaming bowl of Chicken Spinach Soup in no time. Let’s break it down!
Chicken Spinach Soup Easy Recipe
This recipe is simple yet flavorful. It doesn’t take much time or many ingredients to create a hearty, delicious soup. Ideal for busy nights when you’re looking for something quick yet satisfying.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s a rundown of what you’ll need to gather before you begin cooking. Don’t worry, there’s nothing too fancy on this list-just a few pantry staples and some fresh ingredients to make this soup shine!
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Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast (2 Medium Breasts Or 1 Pound)
- For a lean, protein-packed base. You can substitute this with thighs if you prefer dark meat, but chicken breast keeps the soup light.
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Fresh Spinach (4 Cups)
- Spinach adds both flavor and nutrition. Its mild taste pairs beautifully with the chicken, while packing in vitamins and antioxidants.
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Chicken Broth (4 Cups)
- A good quality chicken broth is the key to a savory base. You can use homemade or store-bought, but homemade gives an extra depth of flavor.
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Garlic (3 Cloves, Minced)
- Garlic adds a punch of flavor and depth to the soup. It’s the aromatic backbone that elevates the taste.
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Onion (1 Medium, Diced)
- Onion adds sweetness and complexity. It cooks down to create a savory, soft texture.
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Carrots (2 Medium, Sliced)
- Carrots offer a touch of sweetness and a vibrant pop of color. They also give a nice crunch when added to the soup.
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Celery (2 Stalks, Chopped)
- A classic addition to any soup, celery contributes a subtle flavor and crunchy texture.
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Olive Oil (2 Tbsp)
- For sautéing the vegetables and chicken. Olive oil is healthy and enhances the overall flavor.
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Salt And Pepper (to Taste)
- These seasonings help to balance the flavors. Don’t skip this, as they’re essential for bringing the ingredients together.
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Lemon Juice (1 Tbsp, Optional)
- A squeeze of lemon adds brightness to the soup, giving it a fresh, zesty kick.
Cooking Instructions
Ready to start cooking? Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this easy Chicken Spinach Soup:
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Prepare The Chicken
- Start by cutting the chicken breasts into small bite-sized cubes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. This helps the chicken cook evenly and adds flavor.
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Sauté The Veggies
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and become aromatic.
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Cook The Chicken
- Push the vegetables to the side of the pot, and add the diced chicken. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned on all sides. Stir the chicken and veggies together.
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Add Garlic
- Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
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Pour In The Broth
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Lower the heat and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. At this point, you can taste the soup and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
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Add Spinach
- Add the fresh spinach to the soup. It will wilt down quickly, so stir it in until completely submerged in the broth. Let it cook for another 3-5 minutes until the spinach is tender.
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Finish With Lemon (Optional)
- Stir in the optional squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh, tangy note.
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Serve And Enjoy
- Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy! You can garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese if you like.
Ingredient Insights
- Chicken: Chicken breast is the star of the show. It’s high in protein, low in fat, and super versatile. Choosing boneless, skinless chicken helps keep the soup light without sacrificing any flavor.
- Spinach: This leafy green is a powerhouse of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and antioxidants. It’s great for heart health, bone health, and even your skin. Plus, it wilts down to nothing, so you can add a lot without overwhelming the soup.
- Broth: The broth creates the rich base for the soup. If you have time, homemade broth will really elevate the flavor. Otherwise, a low-sodium store-bought variety is your friend.
- Carrots and Celery: These classic soup ingredients not only add flavor but also bring fiber and vitamins to the dish. They also give the soup a nice balance of textures.
Expert Tips
- Use Bone-in Chicken for Extra Flavor: If you have more time, try using bone-in chicken thighs or breasts. They’ll infuse the broth with more flavor. Just remove the bones before serving.
- Cook the Vegetables Slowly: Sauté the vegetables in olive oil over low to medium heat to bring out their natural sweetness. This adds a subtle depth to the flavor.
- Add Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves work wonderfully in this soup. Add them in during the simmering process and remove them before serving.
- Don’t Skip the Lemon: That little bit of citrus at the end brightens up the soup and cuts through the richness, making all the flavors pop.
Recipe Variations
This Chicken Spinach Soup is highly adaptable! Here are some ways to switch it up:
- Add Pasta or Rice: If you want to make the soup heartier, try adding cooked pasta or rice. Just cook the pasta separately and add it when serving so it doesn’t get too mushy in the broth.
- Add Cream for a Richer Soup: Stir in a bit of heavy cream or coconut milk for a creamy texture. This creates a comforting, rich version of the soup.
- Swap the Protein: Don’t have chicken? You can easily substitute turkey, ground beef, or even white beans for a vegetarian option.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like some heat in your soup.
- Use Frozen Spinach: If fresh spinach isn’t available, frozen spinach works just as well. Just be sure to thaw and squeeze out any excess water before adding.
Final Words
Chicken Spinach Soup is one of those dishes that’s easy to love and easy to make. The combination of lean chicken, fresh veggies, and spinach in a savory broth creates a warm, filling meal perfect for any season. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned pro, this soup is a no-fuss recipe that delivers flavor and nourishment with minimal effort.