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Spiced Chicken Soup with Wine and Greens

This comforting chicken soup features tender simmered chicken, fragrant onions and leeks, and warm spices like cinnamon and thyme. A splash of white wine adds brightness, while greens like kale or spinach provide a fresh contrast, resulting in a nourishing yet elegant bowl with a clear, flavorful broth and a hearty texture.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion diced
  • 2 leeks leeks white and light green parts, sliced
  • 1.5 pounds bone-in, skinless chicken breasts or thighs diced
  • 1/2 cup white wine or sherry
  • 4 cups chicken stock
  • 2 sprigs thyme
  • 1 bay leaf bay leaf
  • 1 cinnamon stick cinnamon stick
  • 3 cups greens kale or spinach, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • to taste Salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot
  • Sharp chef’s knife
  • Wooden spoon
  • Ladle
  • Measuring spoons and cups

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat until shimmering, and add diced onions and sliced leeks. Cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add diced chicken to the pot, pour in white wine, and cook until the chicken is lightly browned, about 7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Pour in chicken stock, then add thyme sprigs, a bay leaf, and a cinnamon stick. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, maintaining a low boil, and cook uncovered for at least 30 minutes to develop deep flavors.
  4. Skim off any foam or fat that rises to the surface with a spoon to keep the broth clear and clean.
  5. Remove the thyme sprigs, bay leaf, and cinnamon stick from the broth. Stir in chopped greens and cook for another 2-3 minutes until just wilted.
  6. Finish by adding a splash of lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the flavors as needed.
  7. Ladle the hot soup into bowls, making sure each serving has plenty of tender chicken, greens, and flavorful broth.
  8. Serve immediately, optionally with crusty bread on the side and a squeeze of lemon for extra brightness.

Notes

For a richer broth, you can simmer the chicken with bones or add a splash of cream before serving. Adjust seasoning and greens according to your preference.