Introduction
Chicken and Vegetable Soup is a comforting, nutritious, and delicious meal to warm you up. This hearty dish combines tender chicken, a variety of fresh vegetables, and flavorful broth, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Packed with protein, vitamins, and fiber, this soup not only satisfies your taste buds but also supports your overall health. Whether you’re a busy professional or a parent looking for a family-friendly meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and seasonings, making it a versatile option for any palate.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
30 minutes
Servings:
6 servings
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced | 1 lb |
| Carrots, sliced | 3 |
| Celery stalks, sliced | 2 |
| Onion, chopped | 1 |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces | 1 cup |
| Corn kernels | 1 cup |
| Peas | 1 cup |
| Chicken broth | 6 cups |
| Dried thyme | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried basil | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt and pepper | to taste |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
Directions
- Prepare Ingredients: Dice the chicken, slice the carrots and celery, chop the onion, and mince the garlic.
- Cook Chicken: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add Broth and Vegetables: Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add green beans, corn, peas, thyme, and basil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Combine and Simmer: Return the cooked chicken to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes until all ingredients are heated through and flavors are well combined.
- Serve: Ladle soup into bowls and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Total Fat | 8g |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Iron | 15% DV |
| Vitamin A | 120% DV |
| Vitamin C | 50% DV |
*DV = Daily Value
Storage Tips for Chicken and Vegetable Soup
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keeps for 3-4 days refrigerated.
- Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the vegetables.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Why This Chicken and Vegetable Soup Recipe is Great ?
- High in lean protein
- Rich in vitamins and minerals
- Quick cooking time
- Comforting and satisfying
- Easily customizable
- Perfect for meal prep
Pro Tips for Making Chicken and Vegetable Soup
- Use fresh, not frozen vegetables for the best texture.
- Cook chicken ahead of time for quicker meal prep.
- Add a splash of lemon juice for a fresh, tangy flavor.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt content.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added flavor.
Why Kids Enjoy This Chicken and Vegetable Soup ?
Chicken and Vegetable Soup is a hit with kids for several reasons:
- Colorful and Fun: The variety of colorful vegetables makes the dish visually appealing and fun to eat.
- Tender Chicken: The chicken is tender and flavorful, making it easy for kids to enjoy.
- Comforting and Satisfying: The warm, comforting broth and hearty vegetables provide a satisfying meal that kids love.
Whether you’re a busy professional or a parent looking for a family-friendly meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and seasonings, making it a versatile option for any palate.
A Quick and Nutritious Meal for Busy Weeknights
This Chicken and Vegetable Soup recipe comes together quickly with just a few simple ingredients. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and nutritious meal that the whole family will enjoy.
Variations and Suggestions for Chicken and Vegetable Soup
Customize Your Chicken and Vegetable Soup
For a twist on the classic Chicken and Vegetable Soup, try these variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy variation.
- Citrus Twist: Squeeze fresh lime or lemon juice over the soup before serving for a citrusy flavor.
- Extra Veggies: Add other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers for added nutrition and texture.
Added Bonus
This recipe is packed with Protein and essential Vitamins, making it a nutritious option that supports growth and energy for active kids. The combination of lean chicken, colorful vegetables, and flavorful broth provides a balanced meal that helps fuel their day.
Conclusion
Chicken and Vegetable Soup is a delicious and nutritious meal option that’s perfect for any night of the week. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights, and offers a balanced and satisfying meal. With endless variations and the ability to customize it to your liking, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household. Introducing nutritious options like these supports overall health and well-being. Consulting with a healthcare professional ensures that nutritional needs are met. Establishing healthy habits early promotes lifelong wellness and an appreciation for nutritious foods.
Related Recipe
If you enjoyed this Chicken and Vegetable Soup, you might also like our Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry . It’s another hearty and nutritious dish that’s easy to make and perfect for family meals.