If you’re looking for a comforting dish that’s both nutritious and delicious, this chicken vegetable soup recipe is just what you need. Loaded with colorful vegetables and tender chicken, this soup is perfect for a cozy dinner or a light lunch. It’s easy to make and can be customized with your favorite ingredients. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will warm your heart and nourish your body!
Ingredients
– 1 lb chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup carrots, sliced
– 1 cup celery, chopped
– 1 cup potatoes, diced
– 1 cup green peas
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 6 cups chicken broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes about 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving contains approximately 250 calories, 30g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and minced garlic; sauté until softened.
3. Add diced chicken breast; cook until no longer pink.
4. Stir in carrots, celery, and potatoes.
5. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
7. Add green peas and season with salt and pepper.
8. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
9. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Additionally, feel free to use frozen vegetables if fresh ones are not available.
Serving and Pairings
This chicken vegetable soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad. It’s also delicious when served with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can be reheated on the stove over low heat. This soup freezes well; just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t skip the garlic; it adds essential flavor.
– Avoid overcooking vegetables; they should remain slightly crisp.
– Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before adding other ingredients.
– Use quality broth for a richer taste.
– Season gradually; you can always add more salt later.
Helpful Tips
– Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep.
– Add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for extra flavor.
– For a thicker soup, blend a portion and mix it back in.
– Adjust the consistency with more broth if needed.
FAQs
Can I add pasta to the soup?
Yes, adding pasta can make the soup more filling. Just cook it separately and add it before serving to prevent it from becoming mushy.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this chicken vegetable soup is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free broth and ingredients.
How can I make this soup spicier?
You can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Absolutely! Frozen vegetables are a great time-saver and can be added directly to the soup.
How long does it take to make?
The total time from prep to serving is about 45 minutes, making it a quick and easy meal option.
Conclusion
This chicken vegetable soup recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare but also comforting and nutritious. With its vibrant vegetables and tender chicken, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy it hot on a chilly day or anytime you crave something wholesome and delicious.
Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast diced
- 1 cup carrots sliced
- 1 cup celery chopped
- 1 cup potatoes diced
- 1 cup green peas
- 1 onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and minced garlic; sauté until softened.
- Add diced chicken breast; cook until no longer pink.
- Stir in carrots, celery, and potatoes.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Add green peas and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.