Chicken Vegetable Soup

If you’re looking for a warm hug in a bowl, this Chicken Vegetable Soup is exactly what you need! It’s the kind of dish that brings the family together, filling your home with mouthwatering aromas and creating those cozy moments we all cherish. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special gathering, this soup is perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s packed with wholesome ingredients that nourish both body and soul.

This recipe has been a staple in my kitchen for years. I love how the tender chicken mingles beautifully with vibrant veggies in a rich broth. It’s not just food; it’s comfort on chilly evenings or anytime you need a little extra warmth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Family Favorite: Everyone loves the combination of tender chicken and fresh vegetables; it’s sure to please picky eaters!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
• Nourishing and Wholesome: Packed with nutrients from fresh veggies, this soup is as healthy as it is hearty.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients will make your kitchen smell amazing! Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful Chicken Vegetable Soup:

• 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
• 2 cups fresh carrots, diced
• 2 cups celery stalks, diced
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

Variations

One of the best things about Chicken Vegetable Soup is its flexibility! You can easily adjust it to fit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Add more greens: Throw in some spinach or kale for added nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce if you like a little heat.
• Change the broth: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a lighter version.

How to Make Chicken Vegetable Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery; sauté for about 5 minutes until the onions are translucent. This step is crucial because sautéing brings out their natural sweetness, adding depth to your soup.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Garlic adds an incredible aroma and flavor that enhances the entire dish!

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add chicken breasts and chicken broth to the pot; bring to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally. The chicken needs time in the flavorful broth to infuse its taste into every bite.

Step 4: Season and Simmer

Season with dried thyme and black pepper. Simmer for about 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. This gentle simmer allows all those delicious flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Shred Chicken and Add Peas

Remove the chicken, shred it into bite-sized pieces, and return it to the pot along with frozen peas. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until peas are heated through. Shredding the chicken ensures every spoonful has tender meat mixed with veggies!

Step 6: Final Adjustments

Adjust seasoning if needed before serving hot. A quick taste check helps ensure everything is just right before you dig in!

I can’t wait for you to try this Chicken Vegetable Soup! It’s sure to become one of your go-to recipes as well. Enjoy every heartwarming spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Vegetable Soup

Making chicken vegetable soup is a wonderful experience, and these tips will help you create the best batch yet!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables contribute vibrant flavors and textures that frozen or canned options cannot match. They also enhance the nutritional value of your soup, making it even more wholesome.

• Don’t rush the sautéing process: Allowing the onions, carrots, and celery to cook until they are tender and fragrant lays a flavorful foundation for your soup. This step helps release their natural sweetness and enhances the overall taste.

• Season gradually: Adding herbs and spices early on builds layers of flavor. However, keep in mind that you can adjust seasoning towards the end of cooking to ensure your soup is perfectly seasoned without overpowering it.

• Let it simmer longer: If time allows, let your soup simmer a bit longer after adding all ingredients. This melds the flavors beautifully and makes for an even richer broth.

• Store leftovers properly: To enjoy this comforting dish later, store any leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just remember to cool completely before refrigerating or freezing!

How to Serve Chicken Vegetable Soup

Presenting your chicken vegetable soup can be just as delightful as making it! With some simple additions, you can turn a cozy bowl into an inviting meal.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and brightness to your soup while enhancing its flavor.
• Lemon zest: A twist of lemon zest can brighten the dish with a refreshing zing that complements the richness of the broth.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into your soup, soaking up all those delicious flavors.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing adds freshness and balances out the warmth of the soup.
• Grilled cheese sandwiches: This classic pairing brings nostalgic comfort and is always a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Rice or quinoa: Serving your soup over cooked rice or quinoa adds heartiness and additional nutrients, making it a more filling meal option.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re set to enjoy a delightful bowl of chicken vegetable soup that warms both body and soul!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Vegetable Soup is a fantastic choice for meal prep! Not only does it taste even better the next day, but it also stores well for future enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of each container for expansion.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• You can also use a microwave; heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful Chicken Vegetable Soup.

Can I use leftover chicken in my Chicken Vegetable Soup?

Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great way to save time. Just add it during the last few minutes of cooking to warm it through.

How can I make this Chicken Vegetable Soup vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, simply replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You’ll still get a delicious soup!

What vegetables can I add to my Chicken Vegetable Soup?

Feel free to customize your soup with your favorite vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach. The more colorful, the better!

Can I make Chicken Vegetable Soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Sauté the veggies first, then add everything to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until chicken is tender.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Chicken Vegetable Soup as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings loved ones together. Whether you’re gathering around the dinner table or preparing meals for busy weeknights, this soup is sure to become a cherished recipe in your home. Happy cooking!

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