Name: Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Chicken Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 180 min
Total time: 190 min
Ingredients: 2 lb chicken breast (boneless and skinless); 14 oz artichoke hearts (quartered); 4 oz fresh baby spinach; 6 cup chicken broth (not low sodium); 8 oz cream cheese; 2 cup parmesan cheese (grated); ½ yellow onion (diced); 4 clove garlic (minced); 1½ tsp dried parsley; 1 tsp dried basil; 1 tsp salt; ¼ tsp ground black pepper

Introduction to Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Chicken Soup

If you’re a busy professional juggling work commitments and everyday life, finding time to prepare healthy meals can often feel like a daunting task. That’s where the beauty of a slow cooker comes into play! Imagine this: a warm, flavorful bowl of Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Chicken Soup ready to greet you after a long day—all with minimal effort on your part.

Slow cooking allows flavors to meld beautifully over time, creating a comforting, richly layered dish without requiring you to hover over the stove. While you focus on your work, this magical kitchen tool takes care of the cooking, helping to infuse your ingredients with deliciousness while ensuring the chicken comes out tender and juicy.

With just a bit of prep, you can toss together chicken, artichokes, spinach, and seasonings to create a dish that not only nourishes your body but also uplifts your spirit. For those who prefer to skip the grocery store chaos, options like Instacart offer convenient ingredient delivery right to your door. So let’s dive into this delightful homemade soup that’s perfect for busy nights and cozy weekends alike!

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Chicken Soup

Essential Ingredients for a Creamy and Flavorful Soup

Creating the perfect slow cooker spinach artichoke chicken soup is all about selecting the right ingredients. This flavorful dish combines rich and hearty flavors that are not only delicious but also comforting, especially on a chilly day. Here’s a quick look at what you will need to whip up this delightful recipe:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (2 lbs): The foundation of your soup; tender and juicy, it will become beautifully shredded during cooking.
Artichoke Hearts (14 oz): These add a tangy twist that perfectly complements the creamy base—feel free to use canned or jarred, whichever you prefer.
Fresh Baby Spinach (4 oz): A handful of spinach not only boosts nutrition but enhances the vibrant color of the soup.
Chicken Broth (6 cups): For the essential flavorful liquid, steer clear of low-sodium options to enhance the overall taste.
Cream Cheese (8 oz): This is what makes the soup luxuriously creamy, so don’t skip it!
Parmesan Cheese (2 cups): A flavorful addition that melts beautifully, making every spoonful utterly delightful.
Yellow Onion (½, diced) and Garlic (4 cloves, minced): These aromatics lay the aromatic base for your soup.
Dried Parsley (1½ tsp) and Basil (1 tsp): A mix of herbs to elevate the taste profile.
Salt (1 tsp) and Black Pepper (¼ tsp): Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors together.

For a full shopping experience, consider ordering your ingredients through Instacart to ensure you have everything on hand! Enjoy cooking this comforting soup, and watch it become a favorite in your household.

Preparing Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Chicken Soup

Creating a comforting bowl of slow cooker spinach artichoke chicken soup is not only simple but also a delightful culinary adventure. This dish melds the rich flavors of juicy chicken, creamy spinach, and tangy artichokes, all simmered to perfection. Let's break down the steps for an easy preparation process.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before diving into the cooking process, it's essential to have everything you need on hand. Consider the following ingredients for this recipe:

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast
14 oz artichoke hearts, quartered
4 oz fresh baby spinach
6 cups chicken broth (not low sodium for better flavor)
8 oz cream cheese
2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
½ yellow onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ teaspoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

You can also shop conveniently for these ingredients using Instacart.

Layer the Chicken and Seasonings

Now that your ingredients are ready, it’s time to build the base of your slow cooker spinach artichoke chicken soup. Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Sprinkle with dried basil, parsley, salt, and pepper. This step infuses the chicken with rich flavor before the slow cooking magic begins.

Add Broth, Veggies, and Cream Cheese

Next, layer in the diced onion, minced garlic, and artichoke hearts on top of the chicken. Pour the chicken broth over everything, ensuring that the chicken is fully submerged. To add that indulgent creaminess, cube the cream cheese and place it over the mixture. As it cooks, it will melt and integrate beautifully into the broth, creating a luscious base.

Cooking Process in the Slow Cooker

Now it’s time for the slow cooking! Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for about 6 hours or on high for 3 hours. This allows all the flavors to meld and the chicken to become wonderfully tender. You can continue your day knowing a delicious meal is simmering away in the kitchen.

Shredding the Chicken and Final Touches

Once the cooking time is up, take a moment to let the enticing aroma fill your home. Carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. As you let it cool slightly, stir in the fresh spinach and grated Parmesan cheese into the broth. The spinach will wilt gently, adding vibrant color and nutrition.

Then, shred the chicken using two forks and return it to the pot. Cover it back up and let it cook for another 10 minutes on high. When served, top with extra Parmesan for a delightful finish.

That’s it! You now have a delightful bowl of slow cooker spinach artichoke chicken soup perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!

Variations on Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Chicken Soup

Adding Different Greens for a Twist

While the classic spinach brings a delightful flavor and nutrition to your slow cooker spinach artichoke chicken soup, consider experimenting with other greens! Kale or Swiss chard can easily substitute for spinach, adding a different texture and even more health benefits. For a lighter soup, you might try adding arugula just before serving for a peppery kick. These variations can transform your dish, keeping it fresh and exciting, making it perfect for any season!

Incorporating Various Dairy Alternatives

If you’re looking to switch things up or cater to dietary preferences, dairy alternatives can do wonders for your slow cooker spinach artichoke chicken soup. Instead of cream cheese, try using cashew cream or coconut cream for a rich, creamy texture without the dairy. For the parmesan cheese, nutritional yeast is a fantastic option that adds a cheesy flavor while being dairy-free. With these simple swaps, you can create a delicious, inclusive meal that everyone can enjoy!

Feel free to explore and make this recipe your own—a tasty slow cooker spinach artichoke chicken soup is just a twist away!

Cooking tips and notes for Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Chicken Soup

Importance of broth choice

Choosing the right broth is crucial for your slow cooker spinach artichoke chicken soup. Opt for regular chicken broth for a deeper, richer flavor—low-sodium broth can leave your soup a bit bland. If you're feeling adventurous, consider homemade broth—it brings an extra layer of depth that packaged options can’t match.

Tips for perfect texture

To ensure your soup has a delightful creamy texture, make sure to cube the cream cheese before adding it to the slow cooker. This will help it melt evenly. For an extra smooth blend, use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup before returning the chicken and spinach. Also, add the spinach near the end of cooking to keep its vibrant color and nutrients intact.

Serving suggestions for Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Chicken Soup

Pairing with crusty bread

One of the best ways to enjoy your slow cooker spinach artichoke chicken soup is with a slice of crusty bread. Whether you choose a warm, toasted baguette or a rustic sourdough, this pairing not only complements the creamy broth but also provides a satisfying crunch. Dip and savor each bite, and don’t be shy about soaking up every last drop of that delicious soup.

Creative toppings to enhance flavor

Elevate your soup experience with imaginative toppings! Consider:

Crumbled Turkey Bacon: Adds a delightful smokiness.
Shredded Cheese: A sprinkle of additional parmesan or mozzarella for extra creaminess.
Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or basil brightens the flavors.
Chili Flakes: For those who like a bit of heat.

These toppings will transform your slow cooker spinach artichoke chicken soup into a gourmet delight!

Time breakdown for Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Chicken Soup

Preparation time
Getting started is a breeze! You’ll need just 10 minutes to prep all your ingredients. Chop the onions, mince the garlic, and cube the cream cheese, and you're good to go. This short prep time makes this soup a perfect option for busy weeknights.

Cooking time
Depending on your timeline, you can let your slow cooker do the work for either 180 minutes (3 hours) on high or 360 minutes (6 hours) on low. The longer cooking time really allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Total time
In total, you’ll invest about 190 minutes from start to finish, including both prep and cooking times. It’s an effortless way to enjoy a hearty, warming bowl of deliciousness while you focus on other tasks!

For more cooking tips, check out this article on slow cooking essentials.

Nutritional Facts for Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Chicken Soup

Calories Per Serving

Each serving of this slow cooker spinach artichoke chicken soup packs around 450 calories, making it a hearty yet nutritious option for lunch or dinner.

Key Nutrients

This soup is a fantastic source of:

Protein: Thanks to the chicken and cheese.
Vitamins A & C: From spinach, essential for a healthy immune system.
Calcium: Provided by parmesan cheese, supporting strong bones.

Dietary Considerations

This soup is both gluten-free and low-carb, perfect for various diets. If you’re watching your sodium intake, consider using low-sodium chicken broth. Overall, it’s a delightful dish that caters to many dietary preferences!

For more information on the importance of balanced nutrition, check out Healthline for valuable insights.

FAQ about Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Chicken Soup

Can I use frozen chicken?
Absolutely! Frozen chicken works great in this slow cooker spinach artichoke chicken soup. Just make sure to adjust your cooking time slightly, as it may take a little longer to reach a safe internal temperature. Aim for about 7–8 hours on low. If you're short on time, consider thawing your chicken in the fridge the night before cooking.

What if I want it spicier?
If you’re looking to add some heat, you can easily spice things up! Consider adding red pepper flakes to the soup, or toss in some diced jalapeños for an extra kick. For a more complex flavor, a splash of hot sauce just before serving can elevate your dish. Tailor it to your taste!

How to store leftovers?
Storing leftovers from your slow cooker spinach artichoke chicken soup is simple! Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers. It’ll last in the refrigerator for about 3–4 days. If you’d like to freeze your soup, portion it into freezer-safe bags, and it should maintain its quality for up to six months. You can find more tips on food storage at FoodSafety.gov.

Conclusion on Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Chicken Soup

In conclusion, this slow cooker spinach artichoke chicken soup seamlessly blends flavors and nutrition, making it perfect for busy evenings. With minimal prep and a delicious outcome, you'll find it's an easy crowd-pleaser. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite comfort food!