Enjoy the comforting warmth of Hearty Chicken & Veggie Soup, a dish that combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and savory broth into a delightful meal that’s perfect for any time of the year. Whether you need something cozy for a chilly evening or a nutritious option for a family dinner, this soup brings nourishment and satisfaction to your table.
Why We Love This Hearty Chicken & Veggie Soup Recipe
This Hearty Chicken & Veggie Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl. Its simplicity and wholesome ingredients make it a favorite among many. You can whip it up in a single pot, meaning less fuss and less mess. Packed with chicken, vibrant vegetables, and herbs, each spoonful offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Not only is this soup satisfying, but it also offers a great way to boost your vegetable intake while ensuring that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy it. The best part? You can customize it to your liking, making it truly yours.
Ingredients about Hearty Chicken & Veggie Soup
List of ingredients with measurements:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
- Crusty bread (for serving, optional)
How to Make Hearty Chicken & Veggie Soup Directions
Creating your own Hearty Chicken & Veggie Soup is simple and fun. Start by taking a large pot or a Dutch oven and heating the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and diced celery and let them cook for about 8 to 10 minutes. This step allows the vegetables to soften, and you’ll notice the onion turning translucent, adding to the base’s flavor.
Next, stir in the minced garlic, dried parsley, and thyme. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant, releasing its delicious aroma. Now, pour in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. These little bits are full of flavor and will deepen your soup’s taste.
After that, it’s time to add the diced potatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat, cover the pot, and cook for about 15 to 20 minutes. During this time, the potatoes will become tender and absorb the flavors around them.
Once your potatoes are just right, stir in the cooked shredded chicken and frozen peas, allowing them to heat through. This should take about 5 minutes. After heating, season your soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Remember to start small; you can always add more, but you can’t take it out once it’s in there.
Ladle the soup into bowls, and if you like, you can garnish it with fresh chopped parsley. This little touch adds a pop of color and brightness to your meal. Serve your Hearty Chicken & Veggie Soup immediately, and don’t forget to pair it with some crusty bread for the ultimate comfort food experience.
How to Serve Hearty Chicken & Veggie Soup
Serving your Hearty Chicken & Veggie Soup can be as casual or as elegant as you desire. A simple bowl is often perfect to enjoy this warming dish straight off the stove. You can enhance the dining experience by offering your guests a sprinkle of fresh parsley or other herbs on top of their soup. This not only adds appeal but also allows each person to tweak their bowl to their liking.
Pairing your soup with crusty bread is an excellent idea. A slice of rustic bread or a warm roll can add a satisfying crunch to your meal. You can even serve a side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the soup.
For gatherings or special occasions, consider using individual soup crocks. These can be set up with toppings, allowing each guest to customize their bowl.
Expert Tips: Hearty Chicken & Veggie Soup
Crafting an unforgettable Hearty Chicken & Veggie Soup is all about the details. Here are some expert tips to elevate your cooking experience:
- Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh vegetables. They contribute vibrant flavors and nutrients to your soup.
- Homemade Broth: Making your own chicken broth can take the flavor to another level. Homemade broth is richer and allows you to control the seasoning.
- Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adding salt and pepper gradually ensures that your soup will be seasoned perfectly without being overpowering.
- Leftover Chicken: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover roast chicken or rotisserie chicken; it saves you time and reduces waste.
- Additional Vegetables: Feel free to add your favorite veggies, such as green beans or bell peppers, to the mix for extra flavor and texture.
- Slow Cooking: If you have the time, let the soup simmer longer. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making a richer broth.
- Spices and Herbs: Experiment with different herbs or even a dash of hot sauce if you enjoy a bit of heat to balance with the sweetness of the vegetables.
How to Store Hearty Chicken & Veggie Soup
Storing your Hearty Chicken & Veggie Soup is straightforward. Once it has cooled to room temperature, transfer the soup into an airtight container. It can stay in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
If you’d like to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Portioning your soup into freezer bags allows for easy reheating later. When stored correctly, this soup can last up to 2 to 3 months in the freezer. Make sure to label your bags with the date to keep track of freshness.
When you want to enjoy your soup again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat in a pot over medium heat until it’s warmed through. You may need to add a splash of water or broth if it’s too thick after freezing.
Variation of Hearty Chicken & Veggie Soup
The beauty of Hearty Chicken & Veggie Soup is its flexibility. You can adapt the recipe to suit your tastes or to incorporate seasonal produce. Here are a few variations you might consider:
- Add Some Pasta: Stir in some small pasta shapes, such as orzo or ditalini, during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a heartier soup.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat if you’re in the mood for something spicy.
- Herb Swaps: Try using fresh herbs like basil or cilantro instead of dried for a fresher taste.
- Creamy Version: For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of cream or stir in a roux to thicken the soup.
- Different Proteins: Swap chicken for turkey or even beans for a vegetarian option to accommodate different dietary needs.
These variations allow you to experiment with your soup, ensuring it remains exciting every time you make it.
FAQ
What is the main ingredient in Hearty Chicken & Veggie Soup?
The main ingredient in Hearty Chicken & Veggie Soup is cooked shredded chicken, providing protein and flavor to the dish.
How long does it take to prepare Hearty Chicken & Veggie Soup?
Preparation and cooking time for Hearty Chicken & Veggie Soup is about 50 to 60 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Can I make Hearty Chicken & Veggie Soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Hearty Chicken & Veggie Soup ahead of time. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Is Hearty Chicken & Veggie Soup healthy?
Absolutely! Hearty Chicken & Veggie Soup is packed with nutrients from vegetables and protein from chicken, making it a wholesome meal option.
How can I customize my Hearty Chicken & Veggie Soup?
You can customize your Hearty Chicken & Veggie Soup by adding your favorite vegetables, herbs, or spices to suit your taste preferences.
Hearty Chicken & Veggie Soup
Ingredients
Vegetables and Flavor Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For cooking the vegetables
- 1 medium onion, diced Adds flavor to the soup
- 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances the aromatic profile
Main Ingredients
- 6 cups chicken broth Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes Provides heartiness to the soup
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken Can use leftover or rotisserie chicken
- 1 cup frozen peas Adds sweetness and color
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
For Serving
- to taste Fresh parsley, chopped For garnish
- as needed Crusty bread For serving, optional
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add diced onion, sliced carrots, and diced celery; cook for 8 to 10 minutes until vegetables soften and onion is translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic, dried parsley, and thyme; cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.
Cooking
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot.
- Add the diced potatoes and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Cover the pot and cook for about 15 to 20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in the cooked shredded chicken and frozen peas, heating through for about 5 minutes.
- Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste.
Serving
- Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
- Serve immediately with crusty bread.
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