Chicken Soup recipe is ideal for a nourishing and comforting meal. This hearty soup contains flavorful chicken, fresh vegetables, and a savory broth that will warm your heart and body. It’s simple to prepare, versatile, and suitable for any season. A detailed recipe with step-by-step instructions is provided below.
Chicken Soup Ingredients
| Soup Base | Broth | Protein | Garnish |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter | 6–8 cups chicken broth (store-bought or homemade) | 2 medium chicken breasts or thighs (boneless or bone-in) | Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped |
| 1 medium onion, finely chopped | 1 teaspoon dried thyme | Salt and black pepper, to taste | Freshly squeezed lemon juice (optional, for brightness) |
| 2 garlic cloves, minced | 1 teaspoon dried oregano | Parmesan cheese, grated (optional) | |
| 2 medium carrots, diced | 1 bay leaf | ||
| 2 celery stalks, chopped | ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor) | ||
| 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), diced (optional) | ¼ teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat) | ||
| 1 zucchini or squash, diced | |||
| 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces | |||
| 1 medium potato, diced (optional for a thicker soup) | |||
| 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned) | |||
| 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen) | |||
| 1 large tomato, diced, or 1 cup canned diced tomatoes |
Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe
Instructions – 1. Prepare the Chicken
– If you’re using raw chicken, season the breasts and thighs lightly with salt and pepper.
– In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat.
– Add the chicken and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, or until lightly brown. This step seals in the flavor.
– Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
2. The Vegetables
– In the same pot, add another tablespoon of olive oil or butter.
– Combine the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
3. Build the Soup Base
– Put the bell peppers, zucchini, green beans, and potatoes into the pot. Stir to combine.
– Season the mixture with thyme, oregano, paprika, and a pinch of chili flakes, if desired.
4. Add the Broth
– Pour in the chicken broth. Use enough to completely cover the vegetables, approximately 6-8 cups.
– Stir in the bay leaf and the diced tomatoes.
5. Simmer the Chicken
– Return the chicken to the pot.
– Bring the soup to a gentle boil on medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cover the pot with a lid.
– Allow the soup to simmer for 25-30 minutes with bone-in chicken, or 15-20 minutes with boneless chicken.
6. The Chicken
– When the chicken is fully cooked and tender, remove it from the pot.
– Allow it to cool slightly before shredding into bite-sized pieces with two forks.
7. Cooking the Vegetables
– Add the corn and peas to the pot. Softer vegetables require less cooking time, so they are added last.
– Return the shredded chicken to the pot and mix everything together.
8. Taste and Adjust
– Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
– If the soup feel too thick, add a little more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Chicken Soup Tips and Variation
– Customizing Vegetables, Use any seasonal vegetables you prefer, such as spinach, kale, or sweet potatoes.
Frozen vegetable mixes can be a convenient alternative.
– Protein alternatives, You can use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience; simply skip the step where the raw chicken is cooked.
For a different twist on this recipe, consider using turkey or tofu.
– Enhancing the flavor, To make a richer broth, sauté the vegetables with a splash of white wine or a teaspoon of soy sauce.
A dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes provides a spicy kick.
– Make it creamy, For a creamy soup, add ½ cup heavy cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking.
– Make it a meal, To make the soup more filling, add cooked pasta, rice, or barley.
– Storage & Freezing, This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to four days. Store in an airtight container.
Allow the soup to completely cool before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It will be good for up to three months.
Why Chicken Vegetable Soup is a Winner
– Nutritious, Packed with lean protein and a rainbow of vegetables, this soup is high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
– Comforting, Ideal for cold or sick days, or when you require a soothing meal.
– Customizable, Adaptable to meet dietary needs, available ingredients, and personal preferences.
– Easy to Prepare, This recipe requires only basic cooking skills and pantry staples, making it ideal for first-time cooks.
Chicken Soup
Chicken Soup is a wholesome, flavorful dish that is simple to prepare and infinitely adaptable. It’s ideal for meal preparation, family dinners, or whenever you want a warm bowl of goodness. Follow the steps outlined above, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors. Enjoy your homemade masterpiece.