chicken soup spinach recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best chicken soup spinach recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes – chicken soup with spinach. This hearty and comforting dish is a staple in our household, especially during the colder months. My kids love it because it’s a great way to get them to eat their greens, and I love it because it’s so easy to make and can be customized to suit our tastes. The best part is that it’s incredibly versatile – whether you’re serving it as a main course, a side dish, or even as a hangover remedy (don’t ask!)

, this soup never fails to hit the spot. As for me, I’ve always been fascinated by the origins of chicken soup with spinach. It’s a classic comfort food that transcends cultures and cuisines. In many Eastern European and Middle Eastern countries, chicken soup is a staple of traditional cuisine, often served with vegetables like carrots, celery, and of course, spinach.

I love how this recipe brings together the best of both worlds – the rich flavors of the chicken broth and the earthy sweetness of the spinach. The key to making this recipe truly shine lies in its technique. You see, the secret to a good chicken soup lies not just in its ingredients but also in its preparation. It’s all about coaxing out those delicate flavors from the vegetables and the chicken without overcooking them.

My trick is to sauté the onions until they’re translucent before adding in the garlic and then gradually adding in the rest of the ingredients. I know what you’re thinking: ‘Is this really worth all the fuss?’ Well, trust me when I say that every bite is pure magic. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice (if you choose to add it), and fresh spinach is absolutely divine.

And let’s not forget about the health benefits! Spinach is packed with iron and antioxidants, while chicken provides lean protein for muscle growth. As for storage and reheating ideas, I like to keep mine in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.

Chicken and Spinach Soup

4.9 from 1448 votes

A nourishing chicken soup with fresh spinach, tender chicken pieces, and aromatic herbs. This comforting soup is perfect for a light meal or as a starter, packed with flavor and nutrients.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 280 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Soup

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
6 cups chicken broth
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
4 cups fresh spinach leaves
2 tablespoons lemon juice

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2Add the chopped onion and cook for 3 minutes until softened, then stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3Add the diced carrots and celery to the pot and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
4Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
5Place the chicken breasts into the boiling broth and reduce the heat to medium-low.
6Simmer for 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
7Remove the chicken from the pot and set it on a cutting board.
8Shred the chicken using two forks, then return the shredded chicken to the pot.
9Stir in the dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
10Add the fresh spinach leaves and cook for 2 minutes, stirring, until the spinach has wilted.
11Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the lemon juice.
12Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
13Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 280 kcal🧈Total Fat: 7g💛Saturated Fat: 1.5g❤️Cholesterol: 65mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 18g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 35g

📝Notes

For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth. You can add cooked rice or noodles to make the soup more filling.

Watch Video Of How Chicken and Spinach Soup Works

This recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a family dinner party or just need something comforting on a chilly evening.

One thing I’ve learned from years of making this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile – serve it hot with crusty bread or let it cool down completely before refrigerating or freezing for later use.

With its easy-to-make nature and endless serving options, this chicken soup with spinach is sure to become one of your go-to comfort food recipes.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken and Spinach Soup

What type of spinach should I use?

For this recipe, I prefer using fresh baby spinach leaves for their mild flavor and tender texture. However, if you can’t find fresh spinach or prefer using frozen spinach instead, go ahead and use that too!

Can I make this recipe without rice?

No problem at all! Feel free to omit rice if you prefer or if you’re watching your carb intake.

How do I prevent my soup from becoming too thick?

Simply add more broth or water as needed until you achieve your desired consistency.

Can I add other vegetables besides carrots and celery?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or even potatoes.

How do I store leftover soup?

Transfer your cooled-down soup into an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 days in the fridge or up to 2 months in the freezer.

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