Slow Cooker Chicken White Bean Spinach Soup
A healthy and easy recipe for any night of the week. Shredded white meat chicken is enveloped in a flavorful broth and surrounded by seasoned white beans, petite diced tomatoes, and fresh spinach.
A healthy and easy recipe for any night of the week. Shredded white meat chicken is enveloped in a flavorful broth and surrounded by seasoned white beans, petite diced tomatoes, and fresh spinach.
- 1 small yellow onion diced
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground pepper
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp dried parsley
- 1 1/2 tsp olive oil
- 2 cups packed fresh spinach
- 1 can petite diced tomatoes with juices
- 3 cups chicken broth (or 3 cups water and 3 tsp better t
- 2 cans white beans, rinsed and drained (i used s& w lightly seasoned white beans)
- 1 1/2 lbs (24 oz) boneless skinless chicken breasts (this was 2 chicken breast halves for m
- optional for serving: parmesan cheese and crouton
- Carbohydrate 3.66633449989691 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.4313599994436 g
- Fiber 0.798325003936952 g
- Protein 0.6187054999824 g
- Saturated Fat 0.0650064999211808 g
- Serving Size 1 1 -6 serving (191g)
- Sodium 242.206509999965 mg
- Sugar 2.86800949595996 g
- Trans Fat 0.0343060999826727 g
- Calories 19 calories
Step-by-step
- Heat the oil in a pan on the stove over medium-high heat.
- Add in the diced onion followed by the garlic. Stir for 2 minutes, until onions are translucent and garlic is fragrant.
- Transfer mixture to the slow cooker.
- Add in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, sugar, basil, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, beans, and chicken breasts.
- Cover and cook on low for about 6 hours.
- Remove the chicken and place on a cutting board. Shred the chicken or cut it into pieces.
- Add the chicken back into the slow cooker.
- Stir in the spinach.
- Ladle into bowls and serve with croutons and Parmesan, if desired.
My Go-To Weeknight Dinner: Slow Cooker Chicken White Bean Spinach Soup
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can feel like a Herculean task. Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and the endless to-do list, the last thing I want is to spend hours slaving away in the kitchen. That's why I've become a huge fan of slow cooker recipes – they're my secret weapon for effortless, nutritious dinners.
This Slow Cooker Chicken White Bean Spinach Soup is a perfect example. It's incredibly easy to throw together in the morning, and by the time evening rolls around, you're greeted with a comforting and flavorful meal that the whole family will love. The best part? It’s packed with protein, fiber, and healthy vegetables – a guilt-free way to satisfy those hunger pangs after a long day.
Why This Recipe Works:
This recipe ticks all the boxes for me: it's quick to prepare, requires minimal cleanup, and tastes absolutely amazing. The slow cooker does all the hard work, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and the chicken to become incredibly tender. The addition of spinach adds a boost of nutrients and a vibrant green color, making it visually appealing too. Plus, the recipe is easily adaptable – feel free to add other vegetables, like carrots or celery, or use different types of beans depending on your preference.
Serving Suggestions:
I love serving this soup with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and some crusty croutons for added texture and flavor. It's also delicious served with a side of crusty bread for dipping. For a lighter option, a simple green salad is a perfect complement.
Making it Your Own:
One of the things I appreciate most about slow cooker recipes is their versatility. You can easily customize this soup to fit your dietary needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, simply omit the chicken and add extra beans or vegetables. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Beyond Dinner:
This soup isn't just limited to dinner. It's also fantastic for lunch the next day, making it a great way to prepare meals ahead of time. Simply store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. I often pack a portion in my lunchbox for a quick and satisfying midday meal.
The Convenience Factor:
The ease and convenience of this recipe are what makes it a staple in our household. No more stressing over what to make for dinner – just toss everything in the slow cooker in the morning and let it simmer away. This gives me more time to focus on other things, knowing that a healthy and delicious meal is waiting for me when I get home.
A Recipe for Busy Lives:
In today's fast-paced world, finding time for healthy home-cooked meals can be challenging. But this slow cooker chicken white bean spinach soup proves that it doesn't have to be. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it's the perfect recipe for those who value convenience without sacrificing taste or nutrition.
So, the next time you're short on time but craving a hearty and wholesome meal, give this recipe a try. You won't be disappointed!
