As the days get shorter and a chill settles in the air, there’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of soup to soothe the soul. Enter this delicious Spinach and Chicken Tenderloin Potato Soup – a recipe that combines tender chicken, earthy spinach, and creamy potatoes for a comforting dish perfect for any time of year. Easy to make and packed with nutrients, this soup is ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. Let’s dive into why this dish might just become your next go-to soup recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Soup
This spinach and chicken potato soup strikes the perfect balance between hearty and healthy. The chicken tenderloin provides a lean source of protein, while fresh spinach and potatoes bring a wealth of vitamins and fiber. The simplicity of the ingredients lets each flavor shine through, creating a savory, filling dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. Plus, with minimal prep and cooking time, it’s a fantastic option when you’re craving something comforting but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious soup:
- Chicken tenderloin: 1 pound, cubed for easy cooking and added flavor.
- Potatoes: Eight average-sized ones, peeled and cubed for a creamy texture.
- Spinach: Fresh and chopped, adding vibrant color and nutrients.
- Chicken broth: Provides depth and a savory base for the soup.
- Celery and onion: These aromatics bring extra flavor and texture.
- Garlic: Because no soup is complete without a bit of garlic’s aromatic magic.
- Olive oil: For sautéing the ingredients to perfection.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that let the ingredients shine.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start with the Chicken: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken tenderloin and cook until browned on all sides, which should only take a few minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Using the same pot, add the diced onion, sliced celery, and minced garlic. Sauté these for about 5 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. This step helps release the flavors of the aromatics and will make your kitchen smell incredible!
- Cook the Potatoes: Add the cubed potatoes to the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender. This creates the creamy base for the soup.
- Add the Spinach and Chicken: Once the potatoes are cooked, return the chicken to the pot and add the roughly chopped spinach. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the spinach wilts and melds with the other ingredients.
- Season to Taste: Finally, season your soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy every comforting bite!
Tips for the Perfect Spinach and Chicken Tenderloin Potato Soup
- Customize Your Greens: If you don’t have spinach on hand, kale or Swiss chard would work well too, adding a different texture and flavor profile.
- Try Different Broths: Chicken broth is recommended for this soup, but vegetable broth can work as a substitute for a lighter flavor.
- Make It Creamy: If you love creamier soups, consider adding a splash of cream or milk after cooking, or blend a portion of the potatoes for extra richness.
Why This Soup Is a Nutritional Powerhouse
This soup offers a range of nutrients from each ingredient. The chicken provides lean protein, spinach is packed with iron, vitamin K, and antioxidants, and potatoes add fiber, vitamin C, and potassium. Combined, they create a balanced meal that’s both wholesome and delicious.
Serving Suggestions
This soup is hearty on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a crusty slice of sourdough or a simple side salad. Top it with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a dash of crushed red pepper for added flavor.
Wrapping It Up
Whether you’re battling cold weather or just looking for a comforting, nourishing dish, this Spinach and Chicken Tenderloin Potato Soup is the answer. Its simplicity, combined with satisfying flavors and textures, makes it a recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat. So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a cozy bowl of goodness!
Spinach and Chicken Tenderloin Potato Soup
Description
Warm up with a hearty and flavorful soup that’s perfect for any season. This Spinach and Chicken Tenderloin Potato Soup combines tender chicken, nutritious spinach, and creamy potatoes for a comforting meal that’s both easy to prepare and satisfying.
Ingredients
– 1 pound chicken tenderloin, cubed
– 8 average potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 sticks celery, sliced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken tenderloin and cook until browned on all sides. Remove chicken from the pot and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add the onion, celery, and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
3. Add the potatoes to the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
4. Return the cooked chicken to the pot and add the chopped spinach. Stir well and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the spinach has wilted.
5. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy.