Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe (with Video)

Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe: Chicken vegetable soup is the ultimate comfort food—a warm, nourishing dish packed with flavorful broth, tender chicken, and vibrant vegetables. Whether you’re battling a cold, looking for a light yet filling meal, or simply craving something cozy, this soup is the perfect go-to. It’s not only delicious but also incredibly healthy, loaded with vitamins, minerals, and protein.

This step-by-step guide will walk you through making the best homemade chicken vegetable soup from scratch. Let’s get started!

Ingredients for Chicken Vegetable Soup

Before you start cooking, gather all your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Vegetables:

• 2 carrots (chopped)
• 2 celery stalks (chopped)
• 1 onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 zucchini (chopped)
• 1 cup green beans (trimmed and cut)
• 1 cup corn or peas (optional)
• 2 tomatoes (diced)

Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• OR 1 pound bone-in chicken (for richer flavor)

Broth & Seasonings:

• 6 cups chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra warmth)

Others:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter (for extra richness)
• 1 cup cooked pasta or rice (optional)

How to Make Chicken Vegetable Soup – Step by Step Guide

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

Before cooking, prepare all your ingredients:

• Wash and chop all vegetables into small, bite-sized pieces.
• If using bone-in chicken, remove excess fat and skin.
• For boneless chicken, cut into smaller chunks for faster cooking.
• Mince garlic and dice onions for added aroma and flavor.

Having everything prepped beforehand makes the cooking process much smoother.

Step 2: Sautéing the Aromatics

Sautéing aromatics like onions and garlic enhances the soup’s depth of flavor.

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and cook until translucent (about 3 minutes).
3. Stir in garlic, celery, and carrots—cook for another 2 minutes.
4. If using spices like paprika, oregano, or thyme, add them at this stage to release their aroma.

This step ensures a flavorful base for the soup.

Step 3: Cooking the Chicken

Cooking the chicken correctly is key to achieving juicy, tender meat.

• If using bone-in chicken, add it directly to the pot after the aromatics.
• Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth and bring to a boil.
• Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes (or until fully cooked).
• If using boneless chicken, cook for about 15 minutes.
• Once cooked, remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and set it aside.

Using bone-in chicken enhances the broth’s richness, but boneless works for a quicker meal.

Step 4: Adding Vegetables and Seasonings

Vegetables should be added in a specific order to maintain texture.

1. Add diced tomatoes, green beans, and zucchini to the pot.
2. Stir in salt, pepper, and bay leaf.
3. Let the soup simmer for 10 minutes until vegetables are tender.
4. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir well.

Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Step 5: Simmering the Soup

Simmering allows flavors to meld together beautifully.

• Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for another 10 minutes.
• Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• If adding pasta or rice, stir it in now and let it cook for 5 more minutes.

Simmering makes the soup richer and more flavorful.

Adjusting the Texture and Flavor

Before serving, check the consistency and seasoning.

• If the soup is too thick, add a bit more broth.
• If too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes.
• Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

Adding a squeeze of lemon or fresh herbs can elevate the final dish.

Serving the Soup

Now, it’s time to serve your delicious homemade chicken vegetable soup!

• Ladle it into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
• Serve with crusty bread or crackers.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Enjoy your comforting, homemade soup!

FAQs about Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe

What vegetables go well in chicken soup?

For a hearty and healthy chicken vegetable soup, consider including carrots, celery, onions, and potatoes. These classic ingredients add flavor and nutrition. You can also experiment with green beans, peas, or even kale for added color and texture.

Can I make chicken vegetable soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, chicken vegetable soup is perfect for slow cooking. Simply add all your ingredients to the slow cooker, cover with chicken broth, and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method helps develop deep flavors and tender chicken.

What can I use to thicken chicken vegetable soup?

To thicken your soup, you can use a mixture of flour or cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Add it to the soup and simmer for a few minutes. Alternatively, blending part of the vegetables and returning them to the pot can naturally thicken the soup.

Is chicken vegetable soup healthy?

Chicken vegetable soup is generally very healthy. It is rich in proteins from the chicken and packed with vitamins and minerals from the variety of vegetables. To keep it healthier, watch the amount of salt and use low-sodium broth.

Can I freeze chicken vegetable soup?

Yes, chicken vegetable soup freezes very well. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in a microwave.

These FAQs aim to provide useful tips and address common questions about making chicken vegetable soup, enhancing the reader’s experience and engagement.