30g Protein Chicken, Spinach, and Potato Soup

The rich aroma of Chicken, Spinach, and Potato Soup bubbling away can elevate any gloomy day. Packed with nutritious ingredients, this soul-warming dish is a powerhouse of protein and fiber, making it ideal for busy families looking to maximize their meals. In fact, did you know that incorporating leafy greens like spinach adds over 25% of your daily value of vitamin K? If that’s not enough to convince you, the harmonious blend of flavors will have your kitchen smelling heavenly and your family raving in delight.

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Why This Chicken, Spinach, and Potato Soup Hits the Spot Every Time

There’s something universally comforting about a steaming bowl of soup. Whether it’s chilly outside or you’re just looking for a quick weeknight dish, this Chicken, Spinach, and Potato Soup delivers on all fronts. The succulent chicken thighs become fall-apart tender, while the vibrant spinach and hearty potatoes create a wholesome medley that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. Plus, you can whip it up in under an hour—now, who wouldn’t want a go-to recipe like that?

Ingredient Lineup

To bring this delectable soup to life, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 pound skinless, boneless chicken thighs
• 4 cups water
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 6 cloves garlic, chopped
• 2 large potatoes, cubed
• 1 (16 ounce) can garbanzo beans, drained
• 1 (10 ounce) bag fresh spinach
• 1/2 cup diced roasted red peppers (Optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

This selection not only ensures a rich, satisfying flavor but also provides a multitude of nutrients vital for your health.

Let’s Cook

Ready to dive into the cooking process? Here’s how to turn those ingredients into a heavenly soup:

1. Bring chicken, water, and chicken stock to a simmer in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Reduce the heat to medium-low and continue to simmer until chicken is no longer pink in the center, about 20 minutes.
3. Remove chicken and set aside to cool. Reserve the cooking liquid to layer the flavor.
4. While the chicken is cooling, heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
5. Add onion and garlic; cook and stir until the onion has softened and turned translucent, about 5 minutes.
6. Add the cubed potatoes, then strain the reserved cooking liquid into the pot.
7. Increase the heat to high and bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 25 minutes.
8. Cut the cooked chicken into cubes and add it to the simmering potatoes; cook for 5 minutes.
9. Stir in garbanzo beans, spinach, and roasted red peppers; simmer for another 10 minutes.
10. Season with salt and pepper before serving; sprinkle with Parmesan.

Expert Tip: Always reserve the cooking liquid from the chicken—it’s liquid gold that enhances the flavor profile of your soup.

Nutrition Breakdown

This soup is not just delicious but also packs a nutritious punch. Each serving is approximately:

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 320
• Protein: 30g
• Carbs: 40g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 7g

You can be confident that this meal is balanced, filling, and an excellent way to incorporate lean protein and nutrient-dense veggies into your family’s diet.

Perfect Pairings

Serving this Chicken, Spinach, and Potato Soup is as simple as grabbing a comfy bowl and your favorite bread. Perfect pairings include a crusty French baguette or a warm slice of sourdough for dipping. In colder months, a side salad featuring seasonal greens would complement the heartiness of the soup beautifully.

How to Store It Right

To keep your soup fresh, allow it to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. For optimal reheating, warm up individual portions on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of stock for added moisture.

Pro Tips

• For an extra touch of brightness, squeeze a bit of lemon juice just before serving.
• Adding a dollop of Greek yogurt on top can give a creamy texture without the calories.
• To enhance the flavors, consider marinating the chicken in spices for about an hour before cooking.

Flavor Experiments

Spice things up with a few easy variations:

• Seasonal Twist: Add in some butternut squash during the fall for a delightful sweetness.
• Gourmet Touch: Try a splash of white wine after sautéing your onions for an elevated flavor.
• Playful Variation: Throw in some cooked pasta or dumplings for a fun twist on texture.

Learn from My Mistakes

Even seasoned cooks have their mishaps in the kitchen! Here are a few common mistakes with fixes:

• Mistake: Overcooked chicken can become tough. Fix: Ensure you check for doneness at the 20-minute mark.
• Mistake: Watery soup. Fix: If your soup is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes to reduce.
• Mistake: Spinach wilting too much. Fix: Add it at the end of cooking for a fresher flavor and color.

What to Do with Leftovers

Don’t let any deliciousness go to waste! Here are some creative ways to utilize leftovers:

• Transform your soup into a hearty casserole with some cheese and breadcrumbs baked on top.
• Use it as a filling for stuffed bell peppers—just add some quinoa for extra nutrition.
• Make Chicken, Spinach, and Potato Soup quesadillas with some tortillas and a touch of cheese.

Quick Questions

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs; just extend the cooking time slightly to ensure they reach the right internal temperature.

What beans can I substitute for garbanzo beans? White beans or kidney beans can be delicious alternatives if you prefer a different taste or texture.

Can I make this soup in advance? Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it properly in the fridge.

Now that you have a reliable guide in hand, it’s time to unleash the inner chef and create this nourishing Chicken, Spinach, and Potato Soup. Your taste buds and your family will thank you!