This quick, comforting chicken soup combines tender shredded chicken, tiny Acini di Pepe pasta, and fresh spinach for a nourishing, high-protein bowl ready in under 30 minutes. It’s an ideal cozy lunch or simple weeknight dinner that tastes like it simmered all day.
Chicken Soup with Acini di Pepe and Spinach
This Chicken Soup with Acini di Pepe and Spinach is quick to make but full of comforting, homemade flavor. Boneless chicken thighs stay juicy and add richness to the broth, though boneless chicken breasts will work if you prefer a leaner option. Small pasta pearls—acini di pepe—cook quickly and add satisfying texture without overpowering the clear, savory broth. Stir in baby spinach at the end for color, nutrients, and a fresh finish.
Why this soup works
With simple pantry ingredients, minimal hands-on time, and high protein per serving, this soup is a dependable go-to. It reheats well and freezes comfortably, making it practical for meal prep, packed lunches, or when you want an easy comfort meal that still feels homemade.
My favorite whole wheat pasta
If you prefer whole wheat pasta, Acini di Pepe is available in whole wheat versions that pair nicely in this soup. In my experience, whole wheat varieties differ a lot in flavor and texture; choose a brand you and your family enjoy so the pasta complements the broth rather than overpowering it.
Make ahead and storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. If the pasta absorbs broth and the soup becomes thick, stir in a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating to loosen the consistency.
Freezer-friendly
This soup freezes well if you omit or undercook the pasta before freezing. Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop; add freshly cooked pasta if needed for the best texture.
Tips and variations
- Swap Acini di Pepe for orzo or pastina if that’s what you have on hand.
- Add other quick-cooking vegetables—peas, zucchini, or chopped kale work well.
- Use low-sodium broth and adjust salt to taste at the end.
- If you prefer extra richness, finish each bowl with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 1 lb), trimmed of fat
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup sliced carrots (peeled)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken bone broth or low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 bay leaves
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1/2 cup Acini di Pepe (about 2.5 oz)
- Grated Parmesan, optional for serving
Instructions
- Season the chicken thighs with 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt and a pinch of black pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in a medium nonstick pot over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, carrots, and garlic and sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 4–5 minutes.
- Add the seasoned chicken, chicken broth, bay leaves, and a pinch (about 1/8 teaspoon) of black pepper. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to medium-low. Simmer until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork, about 25 minutes.
- Remove and discard the bay leaves. Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and shred coarsely with two forks, then return the shredded chicken to the pot.
- Add the Acini di Pepe and cook according to the package directions until tender. Stir in the baby spinach during the last minute of cooking until wilted.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan if desired.
Times & servings
Prep time: 5 minutes · Cook time: 25 minutes · Total: 30 minutes · Yield: 4 servings
Nutrition (approx. per serving)
Calories: 266 · Protein: 38 g · Carbohydrates: 25 g · Fat: 6 g · Fiber: 3 g · Sodium: 772 mg · Cholesterol: 95 mg · Sugar: 3 g
More comforting soups to try
- Minestrone Soup — a hearty vegetable and bean soup.
- Beef, Tomato, and Acini di Pepe Soup — a tomato-forward option with tender beef.
- Escarole and Chickpea Soup — simple, savory, and robust.
- Spaghetti and Meatball Soup — a fun, family-friendly twist on meatballs and pasta.
- Pasta Fagioli — a classic, filling Italian-style soup.
Made in partnership with Delallo, a brand I use regularly in my kitchen.
