Ingredients
Scale
To make this soul-warming soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a kick)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
Feel free to make substitutions based on your pantry. For example, if you’re out of fresh spinach, kale works beautifully as well. Or, swap out the heavy cream for coconut milk if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
Instructions
Let’s turn these ingredients into a meal that speaks of warmth and comfort:
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crock pot. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes.
- Pour the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth over the chicken and spices. Stir gently to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Remove the chicken breasts, shred them using two forks, and return the shredded chicken to the crock pot.
- Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to cook on low for an additional 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Just before serving, add the fresh spinach and basil, stirring until the spinach wilts.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle into bowls and serve hot.
This soup is like a warm hug after a long day, with its rich, creamy broth wrapped around tender chicken and vibrant spinach. It’s a dish that speaks to my heart, just like the meals I grew up with.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International