Homemade Chicken Vegetable Soup is a hearty and nutritious dish that combines tender chicken with a medley of vegetables in a flavorful broth. It’s versatile, allowing for additions like rice, pasta, or potatoes to suit personal preferences. This soup is also freezer-friendly, making it a convenient option for meal planning.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

1 pound chicken thighs or breasts, boneless and skinless
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
1 medium onion, diced
2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional, for added heat)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
6 cups chicken broth
1 pound frozen mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, corn, green beans)
Optional additions:
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup cooked pasta
- 1 cup diced potatoes, peeled

Directions

Sear the Chicken: Season the chicken with salt and pepper. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about 3 minutes per side until golden brown. It’s acceptable if the chicken isn’t fully cooked through. Remove from the pot, let rest for 10 minutes, then shred or dice.
Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, melt butter, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add Liquids and Seasonings: Stir in hot sauce (if using), Worcestershire sauce, basil, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour in chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
Simmer: Return the shredded or diced chicken to the pot. Let the soup simmer gently for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Add Vegetables: Stir in frozen mixed vegetables. Continue simmering for an additional 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Optional Additions: If adding cooked rice, pasta, or potatoes, incorporate them at this stage. Simmer until heated through.
Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm.

Nutritional Facts

Per serving (1 cup):

Calories: Approximately 250 kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 800mg
Potassium: 600mg
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 6g
Vitamin A: 900 IU
Vitamin C: 15mg
Calcium: 50mg
Iron: 2mg

A Brief History of Chicken Soup

Chicken soup has been a staple in many cultures around the world for centuries. It’s often seen as the ultimate comfort food, particularly during times of illness, when its warmth and rich broth are thought to provide comfort and healing. The classic chicken soup was originally created as a way to use up leftover chicken, making it an economical dish. Over time, it evolved into a global favorite, with countless variations depending on the region and available ingredients.

From the well-known Jewish “Jewish Penicillin” to the spicy chicken soups in South America and the rich, creamy varieties found in Europe, chicken soup has morphed into a variety of forms, each with its own regional twist. The Chicken Vegetable Soup we’re discussing here brings together elements of tradition with modern nutrition, offering a healthy, satisfying, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for anyone looking for a wholesome meal.

Why Chicken Vegetable Soup Is a Popular Choice

There are many reasons why Chicken Vegetable Soup is so beloved by people around the world. First and foremost, it’s incredibly comforting. The combination of tender chicken and fresh vegetables in a flavorful broth has a way of making you feel at home, no matter where you are. The warmth of the soup is a natural mood booster, especially during colder months or when you’re feeling under the weather.

Another reason for its popularity is its versatility. The base of the soup can be made with just chicken and a few basic vegetables, but it can easily be customized with different seasonings, herbs, and additional ingredients to suit your taste. If you prefer more spice, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce. For a heartier meal, you can throw in some cooked rice or pasta, turning the soup into a more substantial dish.

Moreover, Chicken Vegetable Soup is a great way to sneak in extra servings of vegetables. The array of veggies in this soup—carrots, celery, peas, and more—provides an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. This makes it not only a tasty option but also a nutrient-packed choice that supports overall health and well-being.

Health Benefits of Chicken Vegetable Soup

Chicken Vegetable Soup is packed with numerous health benefits, making it a wonderful addition to your diet. Here’s a breakdown of some of the key nutritional advantages this soup provides:

High in Protein: Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, maintaining healthy muscles, and supporting the immune system. Protein also helps keep you feeling fuller for longer, making this soup a satisfying and filling meal.
Rich in Fiber: Vegetables like carrots, celery, and peas are rich in dietary fiber, which is crucial for digestive health. Fiber helps regulate bowel movements, prevent constipation, and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
Packed with Vitamins and Minerals: The vegetables in Chicken Vegetable Soup provide a wide range of essential vitamins and minerals. For example, carrots are an excellent source of vitamin A, which supports healthy vision and skin. Celery provides a good amount of vitamin K, which plays a role in bone health and blood clotting. Additionally, peas are a great source of vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and supports healthy skin.
Low in Calories: Despite being a hearty and filling meal, Chicken Vegetable Soup is relatively low in calories, making it a great option for those who are looking to maintain or lose weight. The combination of lean chicken and vegetables provides plenty of bulk without the need for added fats or refined sugars.
Hydrating: The broth in Chicken Vegetable Soup helps keep you hydrated, especially during colder months when it’s easy to become dehydrated due to lower fluid intake. The soup’s high water content can help support your body’s hydration needs.

Making the Soup Your Own: Customization Tips

One of the best things about Chicken Vegetable Soup is how easily it can be customized. Whether you’re looking to add more vegetables, adjust the flavor profile, or make it more filling, there are endless ways to personalize the recipe.

Add More Vegetables: While the recipe already includes a variety of vegetables, feel free to add even more. Sweet potatoes, zucchini, green beans, or spinach can all be great additions. The more vegetables you add, the more nutrients you’ll pack into the dish.
Incorporate Grains or Legumes: For a more substantial meal, consider adding grains like quinoa, farro, or brown rice. You can also toss in some beans or lentils for extra fiber and protein. These additions will help transform the soup into a heartier dish.
Use Different Herbs and Spices: If you like your soup with a little more flavor, try experimenting with different herbs and spices. Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano can elevate the soup’s taste, while a dash of red pepper flakes can add a bit of heat.
Make it Creamy: For a creamier version of the soup, you can add a splash of cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking. This will give the soup a velvety texture and a richer flavor, though it will increase the calorie content.
Switch Up the Protein: While chicken is the traditional protein in this soup, you can easily substitute it with turkey, beef, or even plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh. Each will provide a different flavor profile but will still work wonderfully in the soup.

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Vegetable Soup

Chicken Vegetable Soup is an excellent option for meal prepping, as it stores well and can be reheated easily. If you have leftovers, simply let the soup cool to room temperature and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

To reheat, simply heat it on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quick option. If you find that the soup has thickened too much after being stored, you can add a little extra broth or water to reach your desired consistency. If you want to store the soup for a longer period, you can freeze it. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. The soup can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat frozen soup, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Chicken Vegetable Soup is a timeless classic that combines comfort, flavor, and nutrition. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a perfect addition to any meal plan. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a make-ahead meal for the week, this soup is a fantastic choice that will not disappoint. The addition of lean chicken and a variety of fresh vegetables makes it a balanced, nutritious meal that supports your health while also satisfying your taste buds.

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