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Chicken Pasta Soup with Spinach – Cozy One-Pot Comfort Dinner

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 29 minutes
Total Time 43 minutes
Servings: 5 servings
Course: Dinner, Soup
Cuisine: American, European
Calories: 420
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing and building flavor.
  • 1 medium onion diced – Adds sweetness and depth.
  • 2 carrots sliced – Bring subtle sweetness and color.
  • 2 celery stalks chopped – Classic soup base flavor.
  • 3 cloves garlic minced – Essential for warmth and aroma.
  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 450g / 1 lb) – Lean and tender protein. Thighs work too.
  • 6 cups chicken broth – The flavorful base; use low sodium if possible.
  • 1 cup small pasta ditalini or small shells – Perfect bite-sized texture.
  • 2 cups fresh spinach roughly chopped – Adds freshness and nutrients.
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning – Gentle herbal note.
  • Salt and black pepper to taste – Enhances everything.
  • Optional: ¼ cup grated Parmesan – Adds savory richness.
  • Substitutions:
  • Swap spinach for kale cook slightly longer.
  • Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
  • Gluten-free pasta works well — just monitor cooking time.

Method
 

  1. Sauté the Aromatics
  2. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds more.
  3. Add Chicken and Broth
  4. Place whole chicken breasts into the pot. Pour in chicken broth and add Italian seasoning. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook 15–18 minutes.
  5. Do not boil aggressively — gentle simmer keeps chicken tender.
  6. Shred the Chicken
  7. Remove chicken and shred with two forks. Return it to the pot.
  8. Let it rest 5 minutes before shredding to keep juices inside.
  9. Cook the Pasta
  10. Add pasta directly into the simmering soup. Cook 8–10 minutes until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  11. Do not overcook the pasta — it continues softening in the hot broth.
  12. Add Spinach
  13. Stir in chopped spinach during the last 2 minutes of cooking. It wilts quickly and keeps its bright color.
  14. Final Seasoning
  15. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Add Parmesan if using. Serve hot.