Chicken and Spinach Soup

Chicken and Spinach Soup Recipe from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chicken and spinach soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light and healthy meal. This soup is packed with protein from the chicken and vitamins and minerals from the spinach, making it a great option for a balanced meal.

History

Chicken and spinach soup is a popular dish in many cultures around the world. It is often made with a combination of chicken, spinach, and other vegetables, along with flavorful seasonings and spices. This soup has been enjoyed for centuries and continues to be a favorite among many people today.

Ingredients

1 6 oz (170 g) skinless, boneless chicken breast
1 tbsp chinese rice wine or dry sherry
0.75 tsp sugar
1 tsp sesame oil, or as needed
0.5 lb (227 g) fresh spinach leaves
4 cups chicken stock, or 4 cups storebought chicken broth mixed with 1 cup water
1 tbsp soy sauce

How to prepare

Wash the chicken breast, pat dry, and cut into thin strips approximately 2 inches long and 0.13 inch thick.
In a medium bowl, add the rice wine, 0.5 tsp sugar, and a few drops of sesame oil to the chicken pieces. Marinate the chicken for 20 minutes.
While the chicken is marinating, prepare the spinach leaves. Wash the spinach leaves and cut off the stems. Blanch the leaves in a large pot of boiling water for 1 – 2 minutes, or until the leaves turn a bright green. Plunge the blanched leaves briefly in cold water first to stop the cooking process, and then drain thoroughly.
Bring the chicken stock or chicken broth and water to a boil. Stir in the soy sauce and remaining 0.25 tsp sugar.
Add the chicken strips. Bring back to a boil and cook until the chicken turns white and is cooked through. Add the spinach leaves and bring back to a boil. Taste and adjust the seasoning if desired. Serve hot.

Variations

Add diced carrots, celery, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
Use tofu or shrimp instead of chicken for a vegetarian or seafood option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to fully develop.

- Blanching the spinach leaves before adding them to the soup helps to retain their bright green color and crisp texture.

- Adjust the seasoning of the soup to suit your taste preferences, adding more soy sauce or sugar as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the chicken and spinach soup hot with a side of steamed rice or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Marinate the chicken to infuse it with flavor before cooking.

- Blanch the spinach leaves to retain their color and texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian option.

- Substitute tamari or coconut aminos for soy sauce for a gluten-free alternative.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the soup up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the soup with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped green onions for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve the chicken and spinach soup with a side of steamed jasmine rice and a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of chicken and spinach soup contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of chicken and spinach soup contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of chicken and spinach soup contains approximately 5 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of chicken and spinach soup contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Chicken and spinach soup is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy sauce, which may contain soy and wheat allergens.

Summary

Chicken and spinach soup is a nutritious and balanced meal option, providing a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Chicken and spinach soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to make and perfect for a light and healthy meal. Packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, this soup is a great option for a balanced and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Chicken and Spinach Soup. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha in her quaint little cottage by the lake. Martha was known far and wide for her delicious soups, and this particular recipe had been passed down to her from her own grandmother.

As soon as I stepped through the door, I was enveloped in the comforting aroma of simmering broth and savory herbs. Martha greeted me with a warm hug and a mischievous twinkle in her eye.

"I have a special treat for you today, my dear," she said, leading me into her cozy kitchen. "I'm going to teach you how to make my famous Chicken and Spinach Soup."

I eagerly followed her every move as she gathered the ingredients and began to chop vegetables with expert precision. The kitchen was filled with the sounds of sizzling onions and bubbling broth, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished product.

As we stirred in the tender chunks of chicken and handfuls of fresh spinach, Martha regaled me with stories of how she had learned the recipe from her grandmother, who had learned it from her grandmother before her. The soup had been a staple in their family for generations, passed down from mother to daughter with love and care.

I listened intently, soaking up every detail of the recipe as Martha explained the importance of using homemade chicken stock and seasoning with just the right amount of salt and pepper. She taught me how to simmer the soup slowly, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a rich, savory broth that would warm the soul.

Finally, the soup was ready, and we sat down at Martha's rustic wooden table to enjoy our creation. The first spoonful was like a taste of heaven – the tender chicken, the earthy spinach, the aromatic herbs all coming together in perfect harmony.

As I savored each mouthful, I knew that this recipe would become a beloved favorite in my own home. I thanked Martha profusely for sharing her culinary secrets with me and vowed to pass them on to future generations.

Years passed, and I made the Chicken and Spinach Soup countless times, each batch better than the last as I honed my skills and made the recipe my own. It became a staple at family gatherings and dinner parties, always eliciting compliments and requests for the recipe.

I added my own touches to the soup over the years, experimenting with different herbs and spices, and sometimes substituting kale or Swiss chard for the spinach. But no matter how I tweaked the recipe, it always retained the essence of Martha's original creation – a warm, comforting bowl of goodness that nourished both body and soul.

Now, as I sit in my own kitchen, preparing a pot of Chicken and Spinach Soup for my grandchildren, I can't help but think back to that fateful day at Martha's cottage by the lake. The memory of her generous spirit and her delicious soup will always hold a special place in my heart.

As I ladle out steaming bowls of soup for my family, I know that I am passing on more than just a recipe – I am passing on a tradition, a connection to the past, and a legacy of love. And as we gather around the table, sharing stories and laughter, I am reminded once again of the power of food to bring us together and create lasting memories.

I may have learned to make Chicken and Spinach Soup from Martha, but it is so much more than just a recipe to me. It is a symbol of friendship, tradition, and the joy of sharing good food with the ones we love. And for that, I am eternally grateful.