Name: Chicken Vegetable Soup: The Best Comforting Recipe for Home Cooks
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1-2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 ¼ lbs. chicken (see notes); Salt/Pepper; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 small yellow onion (diced); ¾ cup carrots (diced); 2 ribs celery (diced); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon hot sauce; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; 7 cups chicken broth; 1 ½ cups frozen mixed vegetables ((corn/green beans)); 1 teaspoon dried parsley; ½ teaspoon dried basil; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon mustard powder; ¼ teaspoon pepper

Introduction to Chicken Vegetable Soup

Nothing quite warms the heart like a steaming bowl of homemade chicken vegetable soup. This classic dish is not only a staple in many households, but it also offers a delightful balance of flavor and nutrition. Crafted with fresh vegetables and tender chicken, it’s the perfect meal to soothe you on a chilly day or to provide comfort when you’re under the weather. Plus, making it from scratch means you control the ingredients, ensuring a wholesome and tasty experience.

Why choose homemade chicken vegetable soup?

Opting for homemade chicken vegetable soup allows you to customize the flavors and ingredients to suit your taste and dietary needs. Why settle for store-bought versions loaded with preservatives when you can create a fresh, vibrant soup right in your kitchen? Research shows that cooking at home can lead to healthier choices—when you know exactly what’s going in your meal, you can be confident in its nutritional value.

Moreover, consider that spending time in the kitchen can be a therapeutic outlet, allowing you to unwind after a busy day. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this satisfying recipe that could easily become a weekly favorite! If you want to explore more about the benefits of homemade meals, check out this article.

Ingredients for Chicken Vegetable Soup

Essential ingredients

Creating a hearty chicken vegetable soup starts with a handful of essential ingredients that blend together to create a comforting bowl of goodness. Here’s what you’ll need:

Olive oil: For sautéing and adding healthy fats.
Chicken: Approximately 1 ¼ lbs of your choice (breast or thighs work best).
Vegetables: A mix of diced onions, carrots, and celery provides a classic flavor base.
Garlic: Freshly minced cloves add depth.
Chicken broth: A robust 7 cups gives the soup its soul.
Frozen mixed veggies: This convenient option (like corn and green beans) makes preparation a breeze.

Optional add-ins and substitutions

Don’t hesitate to personalize your chicken vegetable soup! Here are some great optional additions and substitutions:

Seasonings: Experiment with fresh herbs or different dried herbs for a unique twist.
Add more greens: Consider spinach, kale, or even zucchini!
Protein boost: Swap in turkey bacon or chicken ham for extra flavor.
For a spicy kick: Feel free to add more hot sauce or introduce fresh chili peppers.

Want to dive deeper into flavor combinations? Check out this Guide to Herbs and Spices for inspiration!

Step-by-step preparation of Chicken Vegetable Soup

Making a comforting chicken vegetable soup from scratch is a beautiful way to nourish your body and spirit. By following these simple steps, you’ll soon be enjoying a bowl of warm, hearty goodness. Let’s dive in!

Prepare the chicken

Start by patting the chicken dry and seasoning it generously with salt and pepper. In a 4.5-quart soup pot, heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken. Sear it for about three minutes on each side until a lovely golden crust develops. Don’t worry if your chicken isn’t fully cooked; it will finish cooking later in the simmering soup. When it's done searing, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to rest for about ten minutes before dicing or shredding it. Keeping the juices from the plate to add to the broth later enhances the soup's flavor.

Sauté the vegetables

Next, it’s time for some vegetable magic! In the same pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. This is where the deliciousness begins! Use a silicone spatula to scrape up any brown bits stuck to the pot’s bottom—this is the “fond” that adds incredible depth to your soup. Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté these veggies for about five minutes until they’re tender and aromatic. Adding garlic during the last minute of cooking intensifies the flavor.

Combine and simmer

Now, let’s get everything together for your chicken vegetable soup! Stir in minced garlic, a splash of hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings like dried parsley, basil, and oregano. This concoction brings a delightful aroma to your kitchen. Pour in 7 cups of chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and return the chopped chicken along with any juices back to the pot. Simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes, allowing all those wonderful flavors to meld.

Add frozen vegetables

To add a pop of color and texture, toss in 1½ cups of frozen mixed vegetables like corn and green beans. They don’t require much cooking time, so cover the pot partially and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes. This step is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want a quick yet nutritious meal.

Final touches and serve

After about 15 minutes, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Ladle the steaming chicken vegetable soup into bowls and serve it hot. Whether it’s a chilly evening or just a day when you need comfort food, this soup is sure to warm you up! Don't forget to check out our other healthy recipes to keep your meal rotation exciting!

Variations on Chicken Vegetable Soup

Chicken Vegetable Soup with Quinoa

For a nutritious twist, try adding quinoa to your chicken vegetable soup! Not only does it boost the protein content, but it also adds a delightful nuttiness. Simply rinse ½ cup of quinoa and add it to the soup right after you incorporate the chicken broth. Let it simmer until the quinoa is tender, about 15 minutes. This variation is not only filling but also provides fiber and essential vitamins.

Creamy Chicken Vegetable Soup

If you’re craving something rich and comforting, a creamy version of chicken vegetable soup will hit the spot. To make it creamy, stir in one cup of heavy cream or coconut milk during the last few minutes of cooking. This addition transforms the soup into a luxurious treat, perfect for chilly evenings. You can also blend a portion of the soup for a velvety texture while still leaving hearty chunks intact. Want to amp up the flavor? Toss in some fresh herbs like thyme or basil—the aroma will be irresistible!

Feel free to experiment and adapt these variations to suit your taste buds. Happy cooking!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Chicken Vegetable Soup

Key Cooking Techniques

To create a delicious chicken vegetable soup, focus on developing depth of flavor. Searing your chicken first adds a golden crust and enhances the broth through the fond left in the pot. When softening your veggies, stirring regularly helps them cook evenly and release their natural sweetness. Don’t rush the simmering stage; allowing the soup to gently bubble for a while melds the ingredients beautifully.

Importance of Freshness

Using fresh ingredients elevates your soup to the next level. Fresh vegetables not only enhance the taste but also offer more nutrients. Take a moment to shop local or choose organic when possible. This ensures your chicken vegetable soup bursts with flavor, making each spoonful comforting and satisfying. For more tips, consider checking out resources like Food Network for best practices on cooking with fresh ingredients.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Vegetable Soup

Garnishes and Sides

Enhance your chicken vegetable soup experience with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro as a garnish. A dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lemon can add a delightful tang. Pair it with crusty whole grain bread or hearty garlic bread for a satisfying meal. For a lighter option, a crisp garden salad can balance the warm soup nicely.

Perfect Pairings

Looking to elevate your chicken vegetable soup? Consider serving it alongside a robust, herb-infused herbed quinoa or brown rice for added nutrition. If you’re feeling indulgent, crispy turkey bacon can add a smoky flavor twist. For the beverage, a refreshing sparkling water with citrus can complement the dish perfectly. Pro tip: This soup is even better the next day, making it ideal for batch cooking!

Feel free to explore more soup garnishing tips here or discover unique side dishes here that are perfect for your next meal!

Time breakdown for Chicken Vegetable Soup

Preparation time
Getting your ingredients ready takes about 15 minutes. This includes chopping the veggies and preparing the chicken. A little organization ensures everything flows smoothly while you cook!

Cooking time
The cooking process takes approximately 30-35 minutes. This includes searing the chicken, sautéing the veggies to perfection, and letting the soup simmer to meld all those delicious flavors.

Total time
In total, you’re looking at around 45-50 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels like a warm embrace in a bowl!

When planning your meals, how about considering making this hearty chicken vegetable soup ahead of time? It freezes wonderfully, making it a great option for busy days ahead.

Nutritional Facts for Chicken Vegetable Soup

Calories per serving

A hearty serving of chicken vegetable soup contains approximately 250 calories. This makes it an excellent option for a light meal, perfect for those looking to maintain a balanced diet without sacrificing flavor.

Breakdown of nutrients

Each bowl of this delightful soup is packed with essential nutrients:

Protein: Around 20 grams, thanks to the chicken.
Carbohydrates: Approximately 30 grams, provided mainly by vegetables.
Fats: Roughly 8 grams, largely derived from olive oil and butter.
Vitamins & Minerals: A rich source of Vitamin A, C, and potassium from the assorted veggies.

These components will not only keep you satiated but also nourish your body with vital nutrients. For more insights on the benefits of incorporating vegetable soups into your diet, check out Nutrition.gov.

FAQs about Chicken Vegetable Soup

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver for your chicken vegetable soup. Simply shred or chop the pre-cooked chicken and add it to the pot when you’re ready to simmer everything together. This not only speeds up the cooking process but also adds extra flavor to your soup.

How can I store leftovers?

Storing your leftover chicken vegetable soup is easy! Allow it to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just remember to label your containers with the date to keep track!

What vegetables work best?

You can mix and match according to your preferences, but classics like carrots, celery, and peas work wonderfully. Don’t hesitate to experiment with other veggies like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition. Just keep in mind that firmer vegetables may require a bit longer to cook.

For more tips on storing soup, check out Food Safety Guidelines from the USDA.

Conclusion on Chicken Vegetable Soup

In summary, chicken vegetable soup is a delightful and nourishing dish that warms both the body and soul. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, its comforting flavors and nutritional benefits make it a must-try. Enjoy this hearty recipe and embrace the joy of homemade soup!