Are you craving a hearty, nutritious meal that's both comforting and packed with flavor? Look no further than this mouthwatering Spinach Corn and Quinoa Chicken Soup! In just 45 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-worthy dish that's not only incredibly delicious but also loaded with protein, vitamins, and wholesome ingredients. Whether you're a busy professional, a health-conscious foodie, or simply someone who loves a satisfying meal, this soup promises to become your new favorite go-to recipe that will warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups spinach
- 1 cup corn
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by dicing the chicken breast into small, uniform cubes, finely chopping the onion, and mincing the garlic cloves.
- Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Sauté the chopped onions until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Add the diced chicken breast to the pot and cook until the exterior turns white and begins to brown, about 5-6 minutes.
- Pour the chicken broth into the pot and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to low-medium and add the cooked quinoa, stirring to incorporate.
- Add corn kernels and continue to simmer for 10-12 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- In the final 2 minutes of cooking, add fresh spinach and stir until it wilts completely.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
- Ladle into bowls and serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice.
Tips
- Use pre-cooked quinoa to save time, or cook it while preparing other ingredients.
- Cut chicken into uniform cubes to ensure even cooking and consistent texture.
- Don't rush the onion and garlic sautéing process - developing those foundational flavors is key.
- For extra depth, consider adding a splash of white wine when sautéing chicken.
- Use fresh spinach for the best color and nutrient retention.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of the soup or add a tablespoon of cornstarch.
- Experiment with garnishes like fresh parsley, chives, or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
- For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with tofu or additional beans.
- Season gradually and taste as you go to achieve the perfect flavor balance.
- Let the soup rest briefly before serving to allow flavors to fully develop.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 85mg
