Hi, I’m Marilyn! Growing up in Crete, my grandmother’s kitchen was my favorite place in the world. I remember the day she taught me to make a hearty chicken soup it was cold outside, and the warmth from the kitchen wrapped around us like a soft blanket. Years later, I like to add a little twist: fresh spinach for a burst of color and nutrition. This Chicken Spinach Soup is not only comforting but also light and healthy, perfect for cozy nights or when you need a little boost.
Whenever I make this soup, I think about sharing it with friends and family. There’s something magical about how food brings people together. Even if your kitchen gets messy like mine often does, the joy comes from tasting that first warm spoonful. Using simple ingredients and a few extra touches, this Chicken Spinach Soup is a dish that feels homemade, loved, and comforting.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Spinach Soup
This soup is the perfect balance between hearty and healthy. Tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a flavorful broth make it satisfying without feeling heavy. Unlike creamy soups that can weigh you down, the fresh spinach adds a vibrant color and gentle earthiness that brightens every bite. Plus, it’s easy enough for weeknight dinners but special enough for guests.
Making this soup is also flexible add noodles, rice, or even a squeeze of lemon to brighten it further. And the best part? It cooks in one pot, so cleanup is minimal, leaving more time for family, friends, or even a quiet evening with a book.
Ingredients for Chicken Spinach Soup
Here’s what you’ll need for a delicious pot of Chicken Spinach Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 6 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup cooked rice or noodles for extra heartiness
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened and fragrant. - Add the chicken and broth
Stir in shredded chicken and pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. - Season the soup
Add thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. This is the step where your soup really comes alive don’t rush it! - Add the spinach
Toss in fresh spinach leaves. Cook for 2–3 minutes until wilted but still vibrant green. - Optional add-ins
If you want a more filling soup, stir in cooked rice or small pasta noodles. Let them heat through for a few minutes. - Serve and enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness. Serve with warm bread or a simple side salad.
Tips for the Best Chicken Spinach Soup
- Use fresh spinach rather than frozen for the best texture and color.
- Leftover chicken works perfectly rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut.
- For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of red pepper flakes.
- Don’t overcook the spinach it should just wilt to preserve nutrients and color.
- This soup freezes well for meal prep, just leave out noodles if adding them.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Chicken Spinach Soup with:
- Crusty garlic bread or homemade rolls
- Light green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for extra richness
- Fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a flavor lift
It’s a meal that feels cozy and wholesome, perfect for both a busy weeknight and a relaxed weekend dinner.
Recipe Card: Chicken Spinach Soup 🥣
⏱ Time Cook: 35 minutes
🧺 Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp oregano
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup cooked rice or noodles
- Lemon wedges
👩🍳 Instructions:
- Sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until soft.
- Add chicken and broth, simmer 10 minutes.
- Season with thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in spinach, cook until wilted.
- Optional: add rice/noodles.
- Serve with lemon and enjoy!
📝 Notes:
- Rotisserie chicken works great.
- Add smoked paprika for extra depth.
- Spinach cooks quickly watch closely.
🥗 Nutrition (per serving, approx.):
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 6g
- Carbs: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
Quick 100-Word Version of the Recipe
Craving a cozy, healthy soup? Try my Chicken Spinach Soup! Start by sautéing onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in olive oil. Add shredded chicken and chicken broth, then simmer for 10 minutes. Season with thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss in fresh spinach until just wilted. For extra heartiness, stir in cooked rice or noodles. Serve with a squeeze of lemon for a fresh, bright flavor. This soup is comforting, light, and perfect for weeknights. It’s simple, delicious, and freezes well, making it a go-to recipe for busy days.
Why You’ll Keep Coming Back
Every spoonful of this Chicken Spinach Soup brings warmth and a little nostalgia from my grandmother’s kitchen. It’s not just a meal it’s a memory, a hug in a bowl, and a simple way to make your family feel loved. Even if your kitchen gets messy, that’s where the magic happens. Cooking is about creating joy and sharing it, and this soup does exactly that.
Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced chef, this recipe is easy to follow, flexible, and downright comforting. It’s a dish you can make your own while keeping the heart of tradition alive.