Chicken Vegetable Soup: A Comforting and Healthy Recipe
Are you looking for a delicious and nutritious meal that's also easy to make? Look no further than this simple yet flavorful chicken vegetable soup recipe! Packed with wholesome ingredients and bursting with aromatic flavors, this soup is perfect for a cozy night in or a light lunch. This recipe is easily customizable to your preferences and what's in season, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe provides a great base – feel free to adjust quantities based on your needs and preferences.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides healthy fats and helps sauté the vegetables.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 carrots, chopped: A classic soup vegetable, contributing sweetness and color.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Another soup staple, enhancing the savory notes.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a pungent and aromatic punch.
- 8 cups chicken broth: Forms the base of the soup, providing flavor and liquid. You can use low-sodium broth for better control over salt content.
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded: Provides the protein element; leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly!
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds acidity, sweetness, and a vibrant red hue.
- 1 cup chopped vegetables (your choice!): This is where you can get creative! Consider adding peas, green beans, corn, potatoes, or any other vegetables you enjoy. Variety is key!
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds an earthy and slightly peppery aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Complements the thyme, adding another layer of herbaceous flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Adjust to your preferred level of seasoning.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Build the soup base: Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (undrained), shredded chicken, and your chosen vegetables. Stir well to combine.
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Simmer to perfection: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for at least 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld.
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Season and serve: Stir in the dried thyme and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- Add noodles or rice: For a heartier soup, add 1/2 cup of your favorite pasta or rice during the last 10-15 minutes of simmering.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk before serving for a richer texture.
- Use fresh herbs: If you have fresh herbs on hand, substitute 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh thyme and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh oregano for the dried versions.
- Freeze for later: This soup freezes beautifully! Allow it to cool completely before storing in airtight containers in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Why This Recipe is a Winner:
This chicken vegetable soup recipe is a fantastic choice because it's:
- Healthy and nutritious: Packed with vitamins and minerals from the vegetables and lean protein from the chicken.
- Budget-friendly: Uses readily available and affordable ingredients.
- Versatile and customizable: Easily adapted to your tastes and dietary needs.
- Perfect for meal prepping: Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
- A crowd-pleaser: A comforting and satisfying soup that appeals to most palates.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy homemade chicken vegetable soup! Let me know in the comments how you customized your bowl!
