A warm and hearty chicken soup with a medley of vegetables, perfect for a cozy meal.
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Ensure the oil is hot before adding the vegetables to enhance their flavor.
Add the chopped onion, celery, garlic, and thyme to the pot and sauté until softened.
Stir frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.
Pour in the chicken stock and add the diced potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender.
Cover the pot partially to retain heat while allowing steam to escape.
Mash the potatoes in the pot to thicken the soup slightly.
Mash to your desired consistency; leave some chunks for texture.
Add the sliced carrots, spinach, and cooked chicken to the pot. Simmer until the carrots are tender.
Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Mix the flour with a small amount of cold water to form a smooth paste, then stir it into the soup to thicken.
Add the paste gradually to avoid lumps.
Season the soup with cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to taste.
Taste as you season to achieve the perfect balance.
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated parmesan cheese.
Serve with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.