The Ultimate Guide to Chicken Spinach Soup: Healthy & Delicious

Introduction

After a long, hectic day, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of homemade soup. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a nutritious meal to fuel your body, or a cozy dish to soothe your soul, this chicken spinach soup recipe checks all the boxes.

Packed with lean protein, vitamins, and minerals, this recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly healthy. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and aromatic spices makes this soup a go-to meal for families, busy professionals, and fitness enthusiasts alike.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Spinach Soup

✔️ Healthy & Nutritious – High in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
✔️ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
✔️ Budget-Friendly – Uses pantry staples and fresh ingredients.
✔️ Customizable – Easily adaptable for keto, gluten-free, or dairy-free diets.
✔️ Perfect for Meal Prep – Stores well and tastes even better the next day.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this simple yet flavorful soup will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. In this guide, we’ll cover everything from ingredients and cooking steps to storage tips and serving suggestions, ensuring you get the perfect bowl of chicken spinach soup every time.

What You’ll Learn in This Guide

• A step-by-step breakdown of how to make this soup.
• Dietary alternatives and ingredient swaps.
• Expert cooking tips to enhance flavor and texture.
• Storage and reheating best practices.
• Answers to the most frequently asked questions about this dish.

Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the ingredients and preparation!

Ingredients List & Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this quick and healthy chicken spinach soup, gather the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken)
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 3 cups fresh baby spinach, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 bay leaf

Optional Add-Ins & Substitutions

• For a heartier soup: Add ½ cup cooked rice or quinoa.
• For a creamy version: Stir in ½ cup coconut milk or heavy cream at the end.
• For extra protein: Use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts.
• For a low-carb option: Replace carrots with zucchini or cauliflower.
• For a vegetarian version: Substitute chicken with chickpeas and use vegetable broth.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Dice the carrots, celery, and onion.
• Mince the garlic.
• Chop the spinach into smaller pieces for easy eating.
• If using raw chicken, cut it into bite-sized pieces or cook it whole and shred later.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

• In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
• Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, oregano, and paprika. Cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

• Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaf.
• If using raw chicken, add it to the pot. Cover and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
• Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot.

Step 4: Add the Spinach & Final Seasoning

• Stir in the chopped spinach and let it wilt for 2 minutes.
• Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

• Remove the bay leaf before serving.
• Ladle into bowls and serve warm with crusty bread or a side salad.

Serving Suggestions & Variations

A great soup is not just about the ingredients—it’s also about how you serve it. Below are some ideas to enhance your chicken spinach soup experience, along with variations to suit different preferences and diets.

Breakfast

Best Ways to Serve Chicken Spinach Soup

1. With Bread – A slice of crusty whole-grain bread, a warm baguette, or garlic bread makes this soup more filling.
2. With a Side Salad – A light green salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the flavors.
3. With Crackers or Croutons – Adds a crunchy texture that pairs well with the creamy broth.
4. With Grains – Serve with brown rice, quinoa, or farro for a more substantial meal.
5. As a Starter – Pair with roasted chicken or grilled fish for a complete dinner.

Creative Ingredient Variations

Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly Option

• Replace the carrots with zucchini or cauliflower rice.
• Use bone broth instead of regular chicken broth for extra nutrients.

Creamy Version

• Add ½ cup of heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk for a richer texture.
• Blend a small portion of the soup and stir it back in for a naturally thick consistency.

Spicy Kick

• Add ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Stir in chopped jalapeños for a bolder flavor.

Mediterranean-Style Twist

• Add cherry tomatoes and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.
• Garnish with crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley.

Asian-Inspired Version

• Replace thyme and oregano with ginger and soy sauce.
• Add bok choy, mushrooms, and a splash of sesame oil for depth of flavor.

Hearty & Protein-Packed Version

• Stir in cooked quinoa or lentils for extra plant-based protein.
• Use bone-in chicken thighs for a richer, more robust broth.

With so many ways to customize this chicken spinach soup, you can make it your own based on your preferences and dietary needs.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Proper storage and reheating ensure that your chicken spinach soup remains fresh, flavorful, and safe to eat. Follow these guidelines to make the most of your leftovers.

How to Store Chicken Spinach Soup

1. Cool Before Storing
   • Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to a storage container.
   • Avoid leaving the soup out for more than two hours to prevent bacterial growth.
2. Refrigeration
   • Store the soup in an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator.
   • It stays fresh for 3 to 4 days.
3. Freezing for Longer Storage
   • Use freezer-safe containers or resealable plastic bags.
   • Leave some space at the top of the container, as the liquid expands when frozen.
   • Label with the date and consume within 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Instructions

Reheating on the Stovetop (Best Method)

1. Pour the desired amount of soup into a pot.
2. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warm (about 5-7 minutes).
3. If the soup has thickened, add a splash of broth or water to adjust consistency.

Reheating in the Microwave (Quickest Method)

1. Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl.
2. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
3. Let it sit for a minute before serving to allow even heating.

Reheating from Frozen

• Overnight Method: Thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Direct from Freezer: Place frozen soup in a pot over low heat and let it gradually melt, stirring frequently.

Avoid These Mistakes

• Do not refreeze previously frozen soup after reheating.
• Avoid overcooking when reheating, as spinach can lose its texture.

Following these storage and reheating tips will help you enjoy delicious, fresh-tasting chicken spinach soup even days after making https://nutritionsource.hsph.harvard.edu/chicken-shrimp-and-fruit-salad/

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are answers to some of the most common questions about chicken spinach soup, covering everything from ingredient swaps to cooking techniques.

Conclusion

This chicken spinach soup is the perfect combination of comfort, nutrition, and simplicity. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a cozy, nourishing meal, this soup is a great choice. Packed with lean protein, fiber-rich vegetables, and flavorful herbs, it’s a dish that satisfies without feeling heavy.

With multiple variations, including low-carb, creamy, spicy, and Mediterranean-inspired options, you can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Plus, with proper storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy this soup for days without losing its delicious flavor.

Next time you need a warm, satisfying meal, give this chicken spinach soup recipe a try. It’s a wholesome, easy-to-make dish that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

The Ultimate Guide to Chicken Spinach Soup: Healthy & Delicious

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

This chicken spinach soup is a perfect balance of flavor, nutrition, and simplicity. Packed with lean protein, vitamins, and antioxidants, this dish is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep. It’s easy to customize with different ingredients and can be made on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or even in an Instant Pot.

• Author: stacirecipes
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop (with slow cooker & Instant Pot options)
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken)
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 3 cups fresh baby spinach, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 bay leaf

Optional Add-Ins & Substitutions:

• For a heartier soup: Add ½ cup cooked rice or quinoa.
• For a creamy version: Stir in ½ cup coconut milk or heavy cream.
• For extra protein: Use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts.
• For a low-carb option: Replace carrots with zucchini or cauliflower.
• For a vegetarian version: Use vegetable broth and replace chicken with chickpeas.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Dice the carrots, celery, and onion.
• Mince the garlic.
• Chop the spinach into smaller pieces.
• If using raw chicken, cut it into bite-sized pieces or cook it whole and shred later.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

• Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
• Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, oregano, and paprika. Cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

• Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaf.
• If using raw chicken, add it to the pot. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
• Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot.

Step 4: Add the Spinach & Final Seasoning

• Stir in the chopped spinach and let it wilt for 2 minutes.
• Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

• Remove the bay leaf before serving.
• Ladle into bowls and serve warm with crusty bread or a side salad.

Notes

• Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in sealed containers for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals.
• Slow Cooker Option: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, adding spinach at the end.
• Instant Pot Option: Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then quick release.

Nutrition

• Calories: 220 kcal
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: Chicken Spinach Soup, Healthy Chicken Soup, Spinach Chicken Broth, Easy Chicken Soup Recipe, Homemade Spinach Soup