Easy Chicken And Vegetable Soup Recipe

Nothing beats a hearty, warm bowl of soup when the weather turns chilly, or you’re simply in need of something comforting. If you’re craving a meal that’s as wholesome as it is delicious, look no further than chicken and vegetable soup. It’s the kind of dish that has the power to nurture both the body and soul. Whether you’re looking for something simple to throw together for dinner or a satisfying meal to feed the whole family, chicken and vegetable soup fits the bill perfectly. It’s flexible, so you can swap in or out ingredients based on what you have on hand, and it’s full of nutrition with lean protein from the chicken and a ton of vitamins and fiber from the vegetables.

In this post, we’ll walk through an easy-to-follow chicken and vegetable soup recipe that will have you slurping away in no time. Along the way, we’ll discuss the ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, expert tips, and even fun variations of the recipe to try. Let’s dive into this comforting bowl of goodness!

Easy Chicken And Vegetable Soup Recipe

A simple recipe doesn’t have to be boring. This chicken and vegetable soup is light yet filling, packed with fresh ingredients, and easy to make, with minimal prep work. It’s one of those recipes that’s great for beginners but will also impress even the most seasoned cooks.

Ingredients Needed

Before you get started, make sure you have all the ingredients on hand. These ingredients can be easily found in most kitchens, and they all work together to create a well-balanced and nutritious soup.

• Chicken breast or thighs (boneless, skinless) – The main protein in this dish. Chicken breast gives a leaner option, while thighs add a little more flavor due to their higher fat content.
• Carrots – Sweet and slightly earthy, they provide color, texture, and a hefty dose of vitamins.
• Celery – A classic addition, offering a crisp texture and mild flavor that balances the sweetness of the carrots.
• Onions – Adds a savory foundation to the soup and contributes to a rich, aromatic base.
• Garlic – A key ingredient for bringing depth and an irresistible fragrance to the dish.
• Potatoes – Choose your favorite type; they add creaminess and heartiness to the soup.
• Vegetable broth – For a lighter version, vegetable broth works great, but chicken broth will bring an even richer flavor.
• Bay leaves – For that herbaceous note that complements the other flavors.
• Fresh thyme or dried thyme – A great herb to infuse a subtle earthy aroma into the soup.
• Salt and pepper – To taste. Don’t skimp on seasoning, as it brings everything together.
• Olive oil or butter – A fat base for sautéing the veggies.
• Optional: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for finishing touches.

Cooking Instructions

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a satisfying chicken and vegetable soup simmering on your stove in no time.

1. Prepare The Chicken

   • If you’re using chicken breasts, cut them into small, bite-sized chunks. If you’re using thighs, trim off any excess fat and cut them similarly.
   • Season the chicken with salt and pepper. This will help enhance its flavor when it’s cooked.

2. Sauté The Vegetables

   • Heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté them for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften and the onions become translucent.
   • Add the garlic, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Add The Chicken And Broth

   • Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until lightly browned, about 3-4 minutes.
   • Pour in the vegetable (or chicken) broth, enough to cover the ingredients. Toss in the bay leaves and thyme, then bring to a boil.

4. Simmer The Soup

   • Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes. This will cook the chicken through and let the flavors meld together.

5. Add The Potatoes

   • Add the diced potatoes to the soup, and continue simmering for another 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally, making sure nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot.

6. Taste And Adjust

   • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.
   • If you like, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors before serving.

7. Serve And Enjoy

   • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or a little extra thyme for a final burst of flavor.

Ingredient Insights

Understanding the role each ingredient plays in this soup can really help you appreciate how they all come together.

• Chicken: It’s the protein powerhouse of the dish. Not only does it contribute to the flavor, but it also makes the soup feel more filling. Chicken thighs, with their slightly higher fat content, bring a richer taste, while chicken breasts give a cleaner, leaner texture.
• Carrots: Carrots are rich in beta-carotene (which the body converts into vitamin A), important for good vision and immune function. They also bring a subtle sweetness that balances the savory elements of the soup.
• Celery: Often underappreciated, celery has a mild, refreshing flavor and adds a satisfying crunch when cooked. It’s high in fiber and vitamins K and C.
• Potatoes: Potatoes are a comforting addition that brings both starch and creaminess. As they cook, they help thicken the broth and make the soup feel heartier.
• Herbs: Bay leaves and thyme provide subtle earthy undertones, enhancing the complexity of the broth without overwhelming it. Thyme, in particular, has antimicrobial properties and adds a hint of savory flavor.

Expert Tips

Here are a few tips from the pros to help you elevate this soup and make it even more flavorful:

• Use bone-in chicken for extra flavor: If you have the time, consider using bone-in chicken pieces. The bones release collagen as they cook, making your broth richer and more velvety.
• Don’t skip the aromatics: The onions, garlic, and carrots are the foundation of your flavor. Make sure to sauté them until they’re softened and aromatic; this extra step really boosts the depth of your soup.
• Simmer, don’t boil: Once the soup is boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer. High heat can make the chicken tough and can cause the potatoes to break apart too quickly. Low and slow is the way to go.
• Use a slow cooker: If you have a slow cooker, you can set it up in the morning and let it cook while you go about your day. Just add all the ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours. The result will be a beautifully tender chicken soup.
• Make it a one-pot meal: Serve the soup with a slice of crusty bread for dipping, or sprinkle in some small pasta like orzo or elbow macaroni to make it even more filling.

Recipe Variations

One of the best things about this chicken and vegetable soup is its versatility. Here are some easy variations you can try depending on what you have on hand or your personal preferences:

• Add greens: Spinach, kale, or Swiss chard can be stirred in towards the end of cooking for added color and nutrients.
• Spicy version: For a kick, toss in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes. If you like heat, it will add a whole new dimension to the soup.
• Creamy twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream, half-and-half, or coconut milk towards the end of cooking to make the soup creamier and richer.
• Different vegetables: If you’re not a fan of potatoes, swap them out for parsnips or sweet potatoes. You can also experiment with green beans, corn, or peas.

Final Words

This chicken and vegetable soup recipe is a great go-to for any time of year, but especially when you’re craving comfort food that won’t leave you feeling sluggish. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients, super easy to make, and versatile enough to adjust to your tastes. Whether you’re feeding a large family or just cooking for yourself, this recipe offers flexibility, flavor, and nourishment in every spoonful.