Luna
Enjoy the warmth and nourishment of homemade chicken soup with our easy recipe for Chicken Vegetable Soup. This comforting soup is great all year, with tender chicken, fresh veggies, and herbs. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy weekend treat.
The secret to this chicken soup recipe is searing the chicken first. This adds a rich flavor to the broth. You can make it in just 30 minutes, and it’s a comforting meal to enjoy. Plus, you can add your favorite ingredients, making it a easy meal that suits your taste.
Key Takeaways
- Homemade chicken soup with vegetables is a comforting and nourishing meal
- The recipe features seared chicken for maximum flavor in the broth
- Preparation time is just 30 minutes on the stovetop or can be made in a slow cooker
- Customizable with a variety of add-ins like pasta, rice, and additional vegetables
- Perfect for enjoying year-round as a satisfying and easy-to-make meal
The Perfect Comfort Food for Any Season
Chicken vegetable soup is the perfect comfort food, filled with fresh, healthy ingredients. It’s not just tasty but also great for your health. That’s why it’s a favorite in homes all year round.
Health Benefits of Homemade Soup
Making homemade chicken vegetable soup is both nourishing and calming. The soup is full of vitamins and minerals that help your eyes, lower cholesterol, and fight cancer. It’s a mix of lean chicken and veggies, making it a balanced and fulfilling meal.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This chicken vegetable soup recipe is special because of its unique searing method. Searing the chicken before adding it to the broth creates a golden crust. This step adds a rich flavor to the soup, making it truly exceptional.
This recipe is also versatile. You can add different nutritious ingredients to make it your own. It’s perfect for any time of the year, whether it’s cold outside or a mild spring night. This comforting soup always satisfies.
“Homemade chicken vegetable soup is the ultimate nourishing and comforting meal for any time of year.”
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Soup
Making the best chicken vegetable soup starts with picking the right ingredients. This dish needs a mix of fresh veggies, tasty seasonings, and top-notch chicken broth. Together, they make a meal that’s both nourishing and full of flavor.
The core of this recipe is the soup ingredients – chicken, onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. These fresh vegetables are the base, adding texture and sweetness. To boost the flavor, we add hot sauce and Worcestershire sauce. Also, herbs like parsley, basil, and oregano bring their unique scents.
The secret to a great chicken vegetable soup is the chicken broth. A good, low-sodium broth gives the soup a deep, rich taste. This recipe uses 6 cups of broth, letting the soup simmer and get its special flavor.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken (thighs or breast) | 2 cups cooked, shredded |
| Onions, diced | 1 cup |
| Carrots, sliced | 1 cup |
| Celery, sliced | 1 cup |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Hot sauce | 1 tbsp |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tbsp |
| Chicken broth | 6 cups |
| Frozen mixed vegetables | 2 cups |
| Parsley, chopped | 2 tbsp |
| Basil, chopped | 1 tbsp |
| Oregano, dried | 1 tsp |
| Mustard powder | 1 tsp |
| Black pepper | 1/2 tsp |
| Lemon juice | 2 tbsp |
With these key ingredients, you’re set to make a delicious chicken vegetable soup. It’s a dish that will warm your heart and nourish your body.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
To make the perfect homemade chicken vegetable soup, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. A strong soup pot or Dutch oven is key. A 4.5-quart Dutch oven or large soup pot is perfect for this recipe. It lets you simmer and serve your soup easily.
Recommended Pot Sizes
A 4.5-quart pot is ideal for this chicken vegetable soup. But, you can choose a bigger or smaller pot based on your needs. For a bigger group, a 6-quart or 8-quart pot is better. For smaller meals, a 3-quart pot works well. Just make sure the pot is big enough for all the ingredients.
Optional Tools for Easier Preparation
- Silicone spatula: This flexible tool is great for gently folding and stirring the soup. It helps with even cooking and protects your pot.
- Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements of herbs, spices, and other ingredients are key for balanced flavors.
- Pinch bowls: These small dishes help you organize and measure your seasonings before adding them to the pot.
- Soup ladle: A sturdy ladle makes it easy to portion out the soup when it’s time to serve.
For storing and freezing, get 16 oz. stackable, leak-proof, and dishwasher/microwave-safe containers. They’re perfect for storing leftovers or batch-cooking your soup for later.
If you like a hands-off approach, a slow cooker is great for making chicken vegetable soup. Just add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and let it simmer while you do other things.
Preparing Your Vegetables and Chicken
Before you start making your chicken vegetable soup, you need to prepare the ingredients. Chop the onions, carrots, and celery into small pieces. Mince the garlic and chop fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. This makes cooking easier and faster.
For the chicken, dry the pieces with paper towels and season with salt and black pepper. If you’re in a hurry, use leftover or rotisserie chicken. This way, you can skip the searing step and just add the chicken to the soup.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Onion, diced | 1/2 medium |
| Carrots, chopped | 2 |
| Celery, chopped | 2 stalks |
| Garlic, minced | 4 cloves |
| Chicken (breasts or thighs), cut into 4-ounce portions | 6 skin-on, bone-in pieces |
| Salt | 1 1/2 teaspoons |
| Black pepper | To taste |
By preparing the vegetables and chicken well, you’re ready for a delicious chicken vegetable soup. The chopped onions, carrots, and celery will make a great base. The seasoned chicken will add richness and flavor to the soup.
The Secret to Flavorful Chicken Vegetable Soup
The secret to a delicious chicken vegetable soup is searing the chicken and making a strong flavor base. Searing the chicken brings out a rich flavor that makes the soup better.
Searing Techniques for Maximum Flavor
Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a big pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about 3 minutes on each side, until it’s golden brown. This step adds texture and a savory flavor to the broth.
After searing the chicken, use a silicone spatula to clean the pot. This helps to mix the flavorful fond (browned bits) into the soup base. It makes sure every bit of flavor is used, adding to the dish’s harmony.
Building the Flavor Base
Then, sauté the aromatic vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery in butter. This step enhances the flavor by caramelizing the vegetables’ natural sugars. Cook them until they’re tender and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
With the chicken and vegetables seared and sautéed, you’ve set up a flavorful soup base. These steps ensure your homemade chicken vegetable soup is full of depth and complexity. It’s a true comfort food delight.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
Making a tasty soup recipe is like art. The Homemade Chicken Vegetable Soup’s cooking steps are a lesson in making delicious one-pot meals. Let’s explore the process:
First, we sear the chicken thighs. This step keeps their juices in and adds a rich crust. After searing, we set the chicken aside.
Then, we sauté onions, celery, and carrots in butter and olive oil. This gentle cooking blends their flavors and softens them. It’s the start of our aromatic broth.
- Add garlic and sauté for a minute, until it smells great.
- Pour in 7 cups of low-sodium chicken broth and mix in 1 tsp of dried parsley and 2 tsp of chicken bouillon.
- Put the seared chicken back in the pot. Let it simmer until it’s tender, about 20-25 minutes.
- In the last 5-10 minutes, add frozen veggies like peas or corn. This keeps them fresh and crunchy.
This whole process takes about 45 minutes. It makes the Homemade Chicken Vegetable Soup perfect for a quick weeknight meal. The simple steps and easy cleanup mean lots of flavor with little effort.
By following these steps, you’ll get a comforting, healthy, and tasty Chicken Vegetable Soup. Serve it with a salad and crusty bread for a full and enjoyable meal.
Seasoning and Spice Combinations
Making the perfect chicken vegetable soup is all about finding the right flavors. The vegetables and chicken give a good start. But, it’s the seasonings that really make it special.
Fresh vs. Dried Herbs
Using both fresh and dried herbs is key. Fresh parsley, oregano, and thyme bring a bright, herbal taste. Dried mustard powder adds depth. Together, they make the soup unforgettable.
Balancing Flavors
Other seasonings are also important. Hot sauce and Worcestershire sauce add a subtle kick. For extra richness, a Parmesan rind can be added to the broth.
| Seasoning | Purpose | Recommended Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh Parsley | Bright, herbal flavor | 2 tablespoons, chopped |
| Dried Oregano | Earthy, slightly sweet notes | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried Thyme | Subtle, woodsy undertones | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Mustard Powder | Depth and complexity | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Hot Sauce | Flavor enhancement | 1-2 tablespoons, to taste |
| Worcestershire Sauce | Umami richness | 1 tablespoon |
| Parmesan Rind | Simmering infusion | 1 (2-inch) piece |
By choosing the right soup seasonings, herb combinations, and flavor enhancers, you can make a delicious chicken vegetable soup. It will warm your heart and excite your taste buds.
Making the Perfect Broth
The secret to a delicious chicken vegetable soup is the broth. Making your own broth is key for a comforting soup. Try simmering chicken bones and veggies for 12 hours or more. This method pulls out collagen, minerals, and amino acids, making your soup rich and nutritious.
For ease, you can use store-bought chicken broth or Better Than Bouillon. Just pick a low-sodium option to avoid too much salt. The goal is to create a flavorful soup base for your chicken vegetable soup.
- Homemade bone broth simmered for 12+ hours extracts valuable collagen and nutrients.
- Store-bought chicken broth or concentrated broths like Better Than Bouillon are convenient alternatives.
- Choose low-sodium options to control the overall saltiness of the soup.
- A high-quality, flavorful broth is the secret to a truly comforting chicken vegetable soup.
“Homemade broth is a game-changer for soups. The depth of flavor and nutrition it provides is unmatched.”
Creating a flavorful broth takes your chicken vegetable soup to the next level. It’s a small effort for a nourishing, homemade meal.
Optional Add-ins and Variations
Our classic homemade chicken vegetable soup is a comfort food favorite. But, you can make it your own with tasty add-ins and variations. These changes can elevate your soup to new heights.
Pasta and Rice Options
For a more filling meal, try adding small pasta shapes or rice. Tortellini, orzo, or elbow macaroni are great choices. Cook them separately to keep the soup’s broth just right.
Additional Vegetable Choices
Don’t just stick to carrots, celery, and onions. Add spinach, kale, peas, diced squash, or zucchini slices. These veggies increase the soup’s nutrition and add color and flavor. For a thicker soup, add diced potatoes or sweet potatoes.
| Nutrition Facts | Value per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 225 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 21g |
| Protein | 29g |
| Fat | 4g |
| Fiber | 6g |
| Sodium | 503mg |
With these add-ins and variations, you can make your homemade chicken vegetable soup your own. Whether you want a thicker soup or more nutrients, the options are endless.
Slow Cooker Method
Make your own crock pot soup with ease using our Chicken Vegetable Soup slow cooker method. It’s perfect for busy days or when you need to prep meals ahead. Just put all the ingredients, including raw chicken, into your slow cooker and let it do the work.
To get the best flavor, sear the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker. This is especially good if your slow cooker has a stovetop-safe insert. Seared chicken adds juices and a tasty crust, making the soup even more flavorful.
- Put the diced chicken, onions, garlic, carrots, celery, potatoes, and herbs in the slow cooker.
- Add the chicken stock and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 7-8 hours, until the chicken is done and the veggies are soft.
- Season to taste and enjoy your comforting slow cooker recipes!
The slow cooker method is a real game-changer. It lets you come home to a delicious, crock pot soup ready to eat. With little prep and no hands-on cooking, it’s a lifesaver on hectic days.
Storage and Freezing Tips
Keeping your homemade chicken vegetable soup fresh is easy. Use the right storage methods for a week of meal prep or freezer meals. These tips will make soup storage a breeze.
Refrigerator Storage
For up to 3 days, store your soup in the fridge. Use airtight containers to keep it fresh. This stops other smells and tastes from getting in.
Freezing for Long-Term Storage
Freeze your soup for up to 3 months for long-term enjoyment. Use stackable, leak-proof containers for freezer storage. Leave some space at the top for expansion.
Label each container with the date and what’s inside. This makes it easy to find and thaw your soup later.
Best Containers for Freezing
- Glass jars or containers made of tempered glass that can withstand freezing temperatures
- Airtight, leak-proof plastic containers designed for freezer use
- Resealable plastic bags, pressing out as much air as possible before sealing
Follow these simple soup storage and freezer meals tips. Enjoy your homemade chicken vegetable soup for weeks or months. Meal prepping has never been easier!
Reheating Instructions
Enjoying a warm, comforting bowl of homemade reheating soup is a simple pleasure. It’s easy to do whether you’re reheating leftover soup or preparing a meal prep batch. The process is straightforward and keeps your soup delicious.
To reheat your soup, consider these options:
- On the Stovetop: Transfer the soup to a pot and heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s piping hot throughout.
- In the Microwave: Pour the soup into a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes on high power, stirring halfway through, until heated through.
If you’re reheating soup from frozen, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight first. This slow thawing helps keep the soup’s texture and flavor. When reheating, stir the soup occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent hot spots.
| Soup Type | Refrigerator Storage | Freezer Storage |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Soup | 3-5 days | 3 months |
| Creamy Soup | 3 days | Not recommended |
| Seafood Soup | 2-3 days | 2-3 months |
It’s best not to reheat a portion of soup more than once. This can affect the quality and safety of the dish. By following these simple reheating instructions, you can enjoy your homemade reheating soup as if it was freshly made, every time.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Chicken vegetable soup is a comforting dish that goes well with many sides. It’s great for a full meal or to add flavor to the soup. There are lots of options to choose from.
For a fuller meal, serve the soup over steamed rice or with garlic bread. These options soak up the broth and make the meal more filling.
- Pair the soup with a fresh salad like roasted beetroot broccoli or pear fennel. This makes for a balanced and healthy meal.
- For a low-carb choice, serve the soup with steamed or roasted veggies. Try honey-roasted carrots, zucchini, and delicata squash.
- Make the dish fancier by adding Parmesan cheese, crispy croutons, or sour cream on top.
To meet different dietary needs, offer gluten-free choices like corn tortillas or a turkey cranberry sandwich. This soup is perfect for family meals or cozy gatherings.
| Side Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Garlic Bread | Crusty bread with garlic butter |
| Roasted Vegetables | Honey-roasted carrots, zucchini, and delicata squash |
| Salad | Roasted beetroot broccoli or pear fennel salad |
| Gluten-Free Tortillas | Homemade corn tortillas for a gluten-free option |
| Turkey Sandwich | Turkey cranberry cream cheese sandwich |
Try these serving ideas to turn your homemade chicken vegetable soup into a complete meal. It’s perfect for any time.
Common Cooking Issues and Solutions
Making the perfect chicken vegetable soup is a fun challenge. Even experienced cooks might face some problems. But don’t worry, we’ve got expert advice to help you fix common issues. This way, your soup will always be tasty and just right.
Troubleshooting Tips
If your soup is too thin, don’t worry. You can thicken it by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water. Then, gently stir it into the soup as it simmers. For a creamier soup, add 1/2 cup of heavy cream in the last 10 minutes.
If your soup is too thick, just add more broth or water. Start with a little liquid and add more as needed. This will help you get the perfect consistency.
Adjusting Consistency
If your soup tastes bland, you can add some flavor. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or some chopped fresh herbs can make a big difference. You can also adjust the salt to bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
| Cooking Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Soup is too thin | Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water, then gently stir into simmering soup. For a creamier version, add 1/2 cup heavy cream in the last 10 minutes of cooking. |
| Soup is too thick | Add more broth or water to thin out the consistency to your desired level. |
| Soup is bland | Squeeze in fresh lemon juice, add chopped fresh herbs, or adjust the salt level to enhance the flavors. |
With these tips, you’ll be able to make a delicious chicken vegetable soup every time. It will be comforting and full of flavor.
Nutritional Information and Benefits
Homemade chicken vegetable soup is more than just a tasty meal. It’s also packed with vitamins, minerals, and macronutrients. This makes it a great choice for a balanced and healthy diet.
One serving of this soup has about 217.8 calories. It also has 13.9g carbohydrates, 18.5g protein, and 10.8g fat. The soup is full of vitamins A, C, K, and B vitamins. It also has minerals like potassium and zinc.
It’s a good source of protein and fiber. This makes it a nutritious meal option.
The healthy soup is made with many nutrient-dense ingredients. These include:
- Chicken broth, which is rich in essential fatty acids, protein, iron, and selenium.
- Chicken, an excellent source of lean, low-fat protein, and rich in Vitamin B-3, Vitamin B-6, selenium, and tryptophan.
- Vegetables such as carrots, celery, and onions, which are rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and beta-carotene.
- Noodles, which provide carbohydrates to support brain function and physical activity.
- Garlic, which offers immune-boosting benefits.
- Mushrooms, containing the powerful antioxidant selenium to support the immune system.
- Turmeric, a potent ingredient with antioxidant properties.
The mix of these nutritional value ingredients makes the chicken vegetable soup very nourishing. Enjoy this comforting dish as part of a healthy lifestyle. You’ll get the benefits of its wholesome ingredients.
Conclusion
This homemade chicken vegetable soup is perfect for any time of the year. It’s great for a quick dinner, a healthy lunch, or a cozy meal on cold days. It’s easy to make and suits many tastes and diets.
The soup has tender chicken, fresh veggies, and a tasty broth. It’s a meal that will warm your heart and body. It’s also good for when you’re feeling sick, offering comfort and healing.
Looking for a easy soup recipe that’s full of comfort food and loved by everyone? Try this chicken vegetable soup. Its flexibility and yummy taste will make it a favorite in your home.
FAQ
What is the key recipe for homemade chicken vegetable soup?
To make homemade chicken vegetable soup, start by searing the chicken. Use chicken thighs, breasts, or leftover chicken. Add fresh veggies like onions, carrots, and celery, along with garlic, herbs, and spices.
What are the health benefits of this chicken vegetable soup?
This soup is packed with vitamins and nutrients. It’s good for your eyes, lowers cholesterol, and may reduce cancer risk. It’s also a balanced meal with protein and fiber.
What makes this chicken vegetable soup recipe stand out?
The searing technique adds a golden crust and enhances flavor. You can customize it with various add-ins. It’s also easy to prepare in advance.
What are the key ingredients in this chicken vegetable soup?
You’ll need chicken, onions, carrots, celery, garlic, and spices. Use hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and chicken broth. Add frozen mixed veggies and seasonings like parsley and oregano.
What kitchen equipment is needed to make this chicken vegetable soup?
Use a 4.5-quart Dutch oven or large pot. You’ll also need a spatula, measuring spoons, and a ladle. For storing, use leak-proof containers.
How should the vegetables and chicken be prepared for this soup?
Chop onions, carrots, and celery in advance. Mince garlic and prepare herbs before starting. Pat dry the chicken and season it with salt and pepper.
What is the secret to making flavorful chicken vegetable soup?
Searing the chicken in olive oil adds texture and flavor. Sautéing vegetables in butter also enhances the broth’s richness.
What is the step-by-step cooking process for this soup?
First, sear the chicken. Then, sauté the vegetables in butter. Add seasonings and broth, return the chicken, and simmer until tender. Add frozen veggies last for a quick meal.
How can the flavor of the soup be enhanced through seasoning and spice combinations?
Mix fresh and dried herbs like parsley and thyme with mustard powder. Hot sauce and Worcestershire sauce can also deepen the flavor.
What is the importance of using high-quality broth for this soup?
Good broth is key for flavor. Use homemade bone broth or store-bought chicken broth for a rich base.
What are some optional add-ins and variations for this chicken vegetable soup?
Try adding tortellini, rice, orzo, or small pasta. You can also add spinach, kale, or squash. Diced potatoes make it heartier.
How can this chicken vegetable soup be prepared in a slow cooker?
Add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 7-8 hours. Searing the chicken first boosts flavor.
How should this chicken vegetable soup be stored and reheated?
Store it in airtight containers in the fridge for 3 days or freeze for 3 months. Reheat by warming it in a pot or microwave.
What are some suggested ways to serve this chicken vegetable soup?
Serve with crusty bread or over rice. Pair it with a side salad for a balanced meal.
How can the consistency of the soup be adjusted if needed?
Thicken with cornstarch or add heavy cream for creaminess. Thin it with broth or water if too thick.
What are the nutritional benefits of this homemade chicken vegetable soup?
A serving has 217.8 calories, 13.9g carbs, 18.5g protein, and 10.8g fat. It’s rich in vitamins A, C, K, and B vitamins, and minerals like potassium and zinc.
